Principal Manufacturing Engineer, Thermal Control Systems

Vast is looking for a Principal Manufacturing Engineer, Thermal Control Systems, reporting to the Manager of Thermal Control Systems, 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: 

• 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.
• 8 + years of experience in manufacturing engineering 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