Manufacturing Engineer, Fluid Systems

Vast is looking for a(n) Manufacturing Engineer, Fluid Systems, reporting to the Senior Manager of Machining Manufacturing, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. Use this space to describe the role and sell the candidate on the cool stuff they would get to work on. 

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

Responsibilities: 

• Conceptualize, develop, and manufacture innovative, cutting-edge tube bending and welding cells capable of meeting the demanding needs for the Haven-1 program. Drive first build and test effort through design integration, assembly sequencing, mBOM development, build and test work order creation, and specification authoring.
• Leverage critical thinking and problem-solving skills to constantly challenge the norms and pushing the boundaries to achieve efficient production fluid transport systems for human space flight within timelines.
• Collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and reliability engineers as well as internal production teams and external vendors to execute expediently and efficiently.
• Create efficient and capable tooling solutions to streamlining production and aid in increased system output while reducing operational burden.
• Establish and enforce standard practices, troubleshooting guides, and standardized repair procedures, with a key responsibility of reviewing and approving planning documents.
• Facilitate day-to-day production of bent, OTW, and manually welded tubing, both on ensuring optimal efficiency and adherence to quality standards.
• Challenge existing production and design requirements for tubing assemblies, utilizing data-driven insights to identify and eliminate wasteful practices, further optimizing the manufacturing process.
• Streamline and optimize existing production systems, proactively identifying areas for cost reduction while enhancing overall quality and efficiency

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 1+ years of mechanical design and hands-on manufacturing experience (internships and extracurricular experience is applicable)  

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams. 
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Comfortable working in a rapidly changing, high-stress environment balancing several projects at any given time.
• Strong understanding of fluid systems.
• Experience tube bending, orbital tube welding (OTW), TIG welding, precision cleaning, tooling design, and/or pressure testing
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to perform root cause analysis. 
• Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting fluids components and systems is desirable.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones