Manufacturing Engineer - Fluid Systems

Vast is seeking a Fluid Systems Manufacturing Engineer to join our team in Long Beach. Reporting to the Manager of Fluid Systems Manufacturing, this role will play a key part in developing the systems required for the design and build of the world’s first artificial-gravity, human-rated space stations.

This is a full-time, exempt position based in Long Beach, California.

• Conceptualize, develop, and manufacture innovative tube-bending and welding cells to meet the demanding requirements of the Haven-1 program. Lead first-build and test efforts, including design integration, assembly sequencing, mBOM development, work order creation, and specification authoring.
• Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent, accurate production of all tubing systems.
• Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges through root-cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions.
• Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to challenge assumptions, push boundaries, and drive efficient human-spaceflight production within aggressive timelines.
• Collaborate closely with design engineers, integration engineers, production teams, and external vendors to execute builds expediently and efficiently.
• Develop efficient, capability-driven tooling solutions that streamline production, increase system output, and reduce operational burden.
• Partner with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes.
• Establish and maintain standard practices, troubleshooting guides, and standardized repair procedures; review and approve all related planning documents.
• Support day-to-day production of bent tubes, orbital tube welding (OTW), and manually welded tubing, ensuring optimal efficiency and adherence to quality standards.
• Evaluate and challenge existing production and design requirements for tubing assemblies, using data-driven insights to eliminate waste and optimize the manufacturing process.
• Continuously streamline and improve production systems by proactively identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Hands-on experience in one or more of the following: tube bending, orbital tube welding (OTW), TIG welding, precision cleaning, tooling design, fluid systems design, or pressure testing.
• 2+ years of manufacturing engineering experience (internships and extracurricular engineering experience acceptable), preferably within aerospace, oil & gas, or pharmaceutical industries.

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.
• Comfortable working in a rapidly changing, high-stress environment balancing several projects at any given time.
• Strong understanding of fluid systems.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to perform root cause analysis. 
• Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting fluids components and systems is desirable.

Additional Requirements:

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

Pay Range: 

• Staff Manufacturing Engineer: $160,000 - $230,000
• Senior Manufacturing Engineer: $137,000 - $190,720
• Manufacturing Engineer II: $100,000 - $129,360
• Manufacturing Engineer I: $85,000 - $106,820