Environmental Test Manufacturing Engineer

Vast is looking for an Environmental Test Manufacturing Engineer, reporting to the Senior Manager of Avionics Manufacturing, 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. 

As an Environmental Test Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the development and manufacturing of advanced avionics systems for our portfolio of space products, including liquid rocket engines and a commercial space station. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams of design/test engineers and technicians to ensure the successful manufacturing, assembly, and integration of avionics components and wire harnesses, contributing to the overall success of the business.

Responsibilities: 

• Collaborate with design teams to provide input on the manufacturability and assembly processes of avionics components and wire harnesses. 
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes and onboard equipment for avionics 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 avionics 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 avionics components, reviewing and approving supplier manufacturing processes. 
• Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of avionics systems, ensuring compliance with engineering specifications and industry standards. 
• Participate in design reviews, providing valuable insights to improve the manufacturability and reliability of avionics components. 
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes for avionics 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 avionics manufacturing to drive innovation within the company

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 5 + years of experience  in manufacturing engineering, preferably in the aerospace or avionics industry.
• 3+ years of experience in design and manufacturing of vibration test fixtures.
• 3+ years of experience in design and manufacturing of thermal heat sinks and thermal vacuum fixtures.
• Understanding of SMC-S-016.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Strong understanding of avionics systems, electronics manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques. 
• Proficiency in CAD software (such as Siemens NX) for reviewing designs and creating manufacturing documentation. 
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations relevant to avionics manufacturing, such as IPC standards. 
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to perform root cause analysis. 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross- functional teams. 
• Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting avionics systems is desirable. 
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies is a plus. 
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones
• Ability to lift up to 25lbs unassisted