Mechanical Engineer, E-2 Development

Vast was founded to expand humanity's frontier into the solar system and beyond. We believe that the next step on that journey is enabling manufacturing and habitation in LEO. We are building artificial gravity space stations to make this a reality. If you want to join a team that builds amazing things with the most talented people on Earth, please reach out.

• Manufacturing:
  • Work with our internal manufacturing team and external vendors to create finished E-2 parts. 
  • Support parts through 3d-printing, machining, post-processing, and inspection. 
  • Incorporate feedback to improve design for manufacturing.
• Design:
  • Work with our team and Chief Designer Igor Nikishchenko to advance the design of E-2. 
  • Create models and drawings of parts and assemblies. 
  • Perform calculations and analyses with team support.
• Assembly:
  • Work with our team to build propulsion component assemblies and the full engine to test at NASA Stennis Space Center.
• Documentation:
  • Write procedures, work instructions, and document processes.
• Testing:
  • Conduct tests of propulsion components and the full engine with our team at NASA Stennis Center. 
  • Build out the Vast E-2 Test Stand for full engine testing and maintain the stand.
  • Troubleshoot fluid systems involving pressurized cylinders, regulators, tanks, valves, tubing, fittings, and other plumbing elements. 
  • Work with the avionics team to properly integrate sensors and actuators into test stands.
• Communicate effectively with entire team to regularly provide updates on progress and issues.
• Always follow proper safety procedures and wear personal protective equipment in the workplace.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline. 
• 2+ years of CAD experience (NX preferred).
• 2+ years of industry experience with rocket engine or fluid system design, development, fabrication, assembly, or test (internships included.)

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Ability to work as a teammate and independently to achieve ambitious goals.
• Hands-on engineering (Full-stack: computer to wrench to broom).
• Communication (Written, visual, slides).
• Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Problem-solving.
• Capable to grow positive, respectful, and professional relationships.
• Willing to make mistakes, take responsibilities, work independently and be transparent about your work.
• Must be willing to spend 50% of their time at NASA Stennis Space Center (Fully paid travel and hotel while there).
• Must have a strong personal projects engineering portfolio (CAD, CAM, software, documentation).
• Able to lift 35 lbs unassisted.
• Able to stand for extended periods.
• Work in an outdoor environment exposed to extreme weather conditions.
• Flexibility to work overtime and adapt to a varying schedule.
• Experience with CFD, FEA (Ansys.)
• Experience with DAQs & Labview.
• Experience with CAM.
• Experience with coding (MATLAB, C++, javascript, C, Arduino.)
• General ‘making’ skills (Machining, CNC, welding, assembly.)

Pay Range: 

• Mechanical Engineer Level I: $80,000- $110,000
• Mechanical Engineer Level II: $100,000-$145,000
• Senior Mechanical Engineer Level III: $135,000-$170,000