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Manufacturing Engineer, Fluid Systems at Vast · Katori

Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station to ensure a continuous human presence in space for America and its allies, enabling advanced microgravity research and manufacturing, and unlocking a new space economy for government, corporate, and private customers. Haven Demo’s 2025 success made Vast the only operational commercial space station company to fly and operate its own spacecraft. Next, Haven-1 is expected to become the world’s first commercial space station when it launches in 2027, followed by additional Haven modules. Additionally, the company recently announced Vast Satellite, a high-power satellite product line leveraging its space station components and the heritage of Haven Demo.

Headquartered in Long Beach, California, and with more than 1,000 employees and over a billion dollars in private capital, Vast has built the facilities required to manufacture and operate America’s next space station. The company plans to develop future habitats and systems for the Moon and Mars, dedicated space stations for government partners, and other crewed systems that will unlock the expanding long-term space economy.

Vast is seeking a Fluid Systems Manufacturing Engineer to join our team in Long Beach. Reporting to the Manager of Fluid Systems Manufacturing, this role will play a key part in developing the systems required for the design and build of the world’s first artificial-gravity, human-rated space stations.

This is a full-time, exempt position based in Long Beach, California.

Conceptualize, develop, and manufacture innovative tube-bending and welding cells to meet the demanding requirements of the Haven-1 program. Lead first-build and test efforts, including design integration, assembly sequencing, mBOM development, work order creation, and specification authoring.
Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent, accurate production of all tubing systems.
Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges through root-cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions.
Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to challenge assumptions, push boundaries, and drive efficient human-spaceflight production within aggressive timelines.
Collaborate closely with design engineers, integration engineers, production teams, and external vendors to execute builds expediently and efficiently.
Develop efficient, capability-driven tooling solutions that streamline production, increase system output, and reduce operational burden.
Partner with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes.
Establish and maintain standard practices, troubleshooting guides, and standardized repair procedures; review and approve all related planning documents.
Support day-to-day production of bent tubes, orbital tube welding (OTW), and manually welded tubing, ensuring optimal efficiency and adherence to quality standards.
Evaluate and challenge existing production and design requirements for tubing assemblies, using data-driven insights to eliminate waste and optimize the manufacturing process.
Continuously streamline and improve production systems by proactively identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
Hands-on experience in two or more of the following:
- tube bending
- orbital tube welding (OTW)
- TIG welding
- precision cleaning
- tooling design
- fluid systems design
- pressure testing
2+ years of manufacturing engineering experience, preferably within aerospace, oil & gas, or pharmaceutical industries.

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.
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.

Pay Range:

Manufacturing Engineer I: $86,000 - $122,000
Manufacturing Eningeer II: $112,000 - $159,000
Senior Manufacturing Engineer: $137,000 - $195,000
Staff Manufacturing Engineer: $162,000 - $230,000

Pay Range: California

$100,000—$230,000 USD

We calibrate level and compensation to the selected candidate's experience and demonstrated capability. We welcome applicants across a range of experience levels to apply.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Base salary will vary depending on job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, business needs, and market demand. Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package. Full-time employees also receive company equity, as well as access to a full suite of compelling benefits and perks, including: medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, generous paid time off; up to 20+ days of vacation for exempt staff and up to 10+ days of vacation for non-exempt staff with the ability to cash-out unused vacation annually, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, ClassPass credits, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, and other discounts and perks. We also take pride in offering exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee & onsite barista, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge, and lunch subsidized as part of Vast’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees.

U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS

The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. This status includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Vast is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vast is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Manufacturing Engineer, Fluid Systems

Manufacturing Engineer, Fluid Systems

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