Test Technician (Second Shift)

Test Technician (Second Shift)Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station to ensure a 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. Haven Demo's 2025 success made Vast the only operational commercial space station company to fly and operate its own spacecraft. Next, Haven-1 is expected to become the world's first commercial space station when it launches in 2027, followed by additional Haven modules. Additionally, the company recently announced Vast Satellite, a high-power satellite product line leveraging its space station components and the heritage of Haven Demo.

Headquartered in Long Beach, California, and with more than 1,000 employees and over a billion dollars in private capital, Vast has built the facilities required to manufacture and operate America's next space station. The company plans to develop future habitats and systems for the Moon and Mars, dedicated space stations for government partners, and other crewed systems that will unlock the expanding long-term space economy.Vast is looking for a Test Technician (Second Shift), reporting to the Supervisor, Structures Test, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of human-rated space stations.This will be a full-time, non-exempt position located in our Long Beach location. This will be a Second Shift Position (2pm to 10pm).Responsibilities:Conduct hypervelocity impact tests using light gas gun and ballistic test equipment according to approved test plans and safety proceduresSet up, calibrate, and operate high-speed cameras, pressure sensors, vacuum systems, and other diagnostic equipment for test operationsPrepare test specimens, projectiles, sabots, and shielding configurations to precise specificationsPerform post-test inspections and damage assessments, documenting results through photography, measurements, and detailed written reportsPerform risk assessments, hazard analyses (JHAs/JHAs), and pre-task briefings prior to each test runMaintain and perform routine preventative maintenance on light gas guns, vacuum chambers, and associated test range equipmentExecute all testing operations in strict compliance with range safety protocols, including pre-test safety checks following approved lockout/tagout proceduresOperate data acquisition systems and process test data for engineering analysisMaintain accurate test logs, equipment maintenance records, and inventory of test materials and consumablesSupport test planning activities by providing technical input on equipment capabilities, test setup requirements, and schedule feasibilityCollaborate with engineers and other technicians to troubleshoot equipment issues and improve test proceduresMaintain clean, organized, and safe test facilities in accordance with 5S principlesMinimum Qualifications:1+ years of hands-on technical experience in testing, laboratory, manufacturing, or related fieldHigh school Diploma or equivalency certificatePreferred Skills & Experience:Experience with ballistic testing, hypervelocity impact testing, or materials testing operationFamiliarity with high-speed imaging systems and data acquisition softwareKnowledge of vacuum systems, pressure vessels, or pneumatic/hydraulic equipmentExperience in aerospace, defense, or research laboratory environmentsUnderstanding of impact physics, ballistics, or materials science fundamentalsProficiency with CAD software (NX, SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for fixture design and test setup documentationStrong attention to detail with excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentationAbility to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional teamLogical problem-solving approach with ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical systemsSelf-motivated with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced development environmentDemonstrated experience operating precision measurement instruments and mechanical test equipmentAbility to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and written proceduresAdditional Requirements:Occasional ability to travelWillingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestonesAbility to lift up to 50 lbs. unassistedPay Range: California$29 - $47 USDBase salary will vary depending on job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, business needs, and market demand. Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package.

Full-time employees also receive company equity, as well as access to a full suite of compelling benefits and perks, including: medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, generous paid time off; up to 20+ days of vacation for exempt staff and up to 10+ days of vacation for non-exempt staff with the ability to cash-out unused vacation annually, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, ClassPass credits, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, and other discounts and perks. We also take pride in offering exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee & onsite barista, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge, and lunch subsidized as part of Vast's ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees.The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing.

This status includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.Vast is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vast is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.