Vast · 1 week ago
Test Engineer II, Thermal Control Systems
Long Beach, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Entry, Mid Level
$110K/yr - $142K/yr
2+ years expVast is a company dedicated to contributing to a future where billions of people can thrive in space, focusing on building artificial gravity space stations. The Test Engineer II will support the development of thermal control systems, leading test campaigns and ensuring the safety of future astronauts through rigorous testing and cross-functional collaboration.
Defense & Space
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Own and drive the full lifecycle of assigned test campaigns for thermal systems and mission-critical components, leading strategic test initiatives that shape both near-term and long-term space habitat missions
Lead cross-functional test initiative and scoped projects from concept to execution, delivering everything from targeted case studies and analytical assessments to the design, build, and instrumentation of complex, high-fidelity test environments
Tackle the hardest technical challenges, performing deep root-cause investigations and coordinating with technicians, engineers, and leadership to implement robust, long-lasting corrective actions
Establish and enforce rigorous test traceability, documenting every phase of design, planning, execution, and post-processed data to ensure alignment with subsystem performance and program level requirements
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
Strong foundation in fluid systems — including fluid mechanics and design, relevant test standards and best practices, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), test instrumentation and fittings, safety protocols, and troubleshooting methodologies
Demonstrated experience owning and executing complex test campaigns, from defining objectives and Conop development through GSE design, build, instrumentation and on to operator training, test execution and data analysis
Proven ability to lead cross-functional engineering projects, coordinating diverse stakeholders spearheading consensus building and project managing initiatives to successful, on-time completion
A proactive, hands-on problem solver who thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments and is comfortable operating autonomously to remove obstacles and deliver results
Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information into clear, actionable insights for both engineering and non-technical audiences while also reconciling differing perspectives in a professional and pragmatic manner
Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones
Ability to lift up to 25lbs unassisted
Preferred
2+ years of proven success in rapidly designing, developing, and delivering highly reliable products
2+ years of hands-on expertise in building, testing, troubleshooting, and resolving fluid, mechanical, and electrical system issues
Multidisciplinary capability — strong in a primary discipline (e.g., mechanical design, electronics, or controls) while possessing working knowledge across supporting fields, such as wiring, coding, CAD modeling, and machine drawing creation
Experience with high pressure and LN2 test operations both as a test conductor and an operator
Understanding of common Data Analysis techniques sensor selection and signal diagnostics
Knowledge of Data Acquisition hardware/design and harnessing design
Familiarity with industry test standards (e.g., SMC-S-016, ASME B31.3) and the ability to apply them effectively in real-world test environments
Understanding of the aerospace test lifecycle, including PDR, CDR, TRR, ATP, QTP, and other key program milestones
Highly self-driven and organized, with outstanding written and verbal communication skills; able to prioritize, execute, and adapt under high-pressure conditions while continuously seeking improvement in all areas of work
Benefits
100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents
Flexible paid time off for exempt staff and up to 10 days of vacation for non-exempt staff
Paid parental leave
Short and long-term disability insurance
Life insurance
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan
One Medical membership
ClassPass credits
Personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health
Other discounts and perks
Exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge
Lunch subsidized as part of Vast’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees
Company
Vast
Vast is developing next-generation space stations to ensure 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.
501-1000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Max Haot
Chief Executive Officer
Alex Hudson
Chief Technology Officer
Recent News
2025-10-17
2025-09-24
The Orlando Sentinel
2025-09-14
Company data provided by crunchbase