Senior Manufacturing Engineer, TCS

Vast is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, TCS reporting to the Manager, Thermal Control Systems Hardware to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach, CA location. 

Responsibilities: 

• Collaborate with design teams to provide input on the manufacturability and assembly processes of thermal hardware components such as tubing, heat exchangers, cold plates, pumps, valves, heaters, and MLI. 
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes and onboard equipment for thermal control systems, considering factors such as efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. 
• Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent and accurate production of thermal control systems. 
• Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges by conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions. 
• Work closely with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of high-quality components, reviewing and approving supplier manufacturing processes. 
• Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of components, ensuring compliance with engineering specifications and industry standards. 
• Participate in design reviews, providing valuable insights to improve the manufacturability and reliability of thermal control system components. 
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes for manufacturing. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality. 
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in applicable manufacturing to drive innovation within the company.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 5 + years of experience  in manufacturing engineering, preferably in the aerospace or thermal control industry.
• Proficiency in CAD software (such as Siemens NX) for reviewing designs and creating manufacturing documentation. 

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.
• Strong GD&T skills, and experience creating and reviewing drawings.
• Strong understanding of fluid systems, tube manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques.
• Strong understanding of MLI manufacturing processes and assembly techniques.
• Experience working with paints, coatings, and adhesives in an aerospace context.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to perform root cause analysis. 
• Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting fluids components is desirable.

Additional Requirements:

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