Senior Test Technician at VAST in Long Beach, CA

At Vast, our mission is to contribute to a future where billions of people are living and thriving in space. Vast is developing next-generation space stations 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. Using an incremental, hardware-rich and low-cost approach, Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station. 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, followed by additional Haven modules to enable permanent human presence by 2030. Our team is all-in, committed to executing our mission safely and on time. If you want to work with the most talented people on Earth furthering space exploration for humanity, come join us. Vast is looking for a(n) Senior Test Technician, 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. Responsibilities: Conduct hypervelocity impact tests using light gas gun and ballistic test equipment according to approved test plans and safety procedures Set up, calibrate, and operate high-speed cameras, pressure sensors, vacuum systems, and other diagnostic equipment for test operations Prepare test specimens, projectiles, sabots, and shielding configurations to precise specifications Perform post-test inspections and damage assessments, documenting results through photography, measurements, and detailed written reports Perform risk assessments, hazard analyses (JHAs/JHAs), and pre-task briefings prior to each test run Maintain and perform routine preventative maintenance on light gas guns, vacuum chambers, and associated test range equipment Execute all testing operations in strict compliance with range safety protocols, including pre-test safety checks  following approved lockout/tagout procedures Operate data acquisition systems and process test data for engineering analysis Maintain accurate test logs, equipment maintenance records, and inventory of test materials and consumables Support test planning activities by providing technical input on equipment capabilities, test setup requirements, and schedule feasibility Collaborate with engineers and other technicians to troubleshoot equipment issues and improve test procedures Maintain clean, organized, and safe test facilities in accordance with 5S principles Minimum Qualifications: 3+ years of hands-on technical experience in testing, laboratory, manufacturing, or related field High school Diploma or  equivalency certificate Preferred Skills & Experience: Experience with ballistic testing, hypervelocity impact testing, or materials testing operation Familiarity with high-speed imaging systems and data acquisition software Knowledge of vacuum systems, pressure vessels, or pneumatic/hydraulic equipment Experience in aerospace, defense, or research laboratory environments Understanding of impact physics, ballistics, or materials science fundamentals Proficiency with CAD software (NX, SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for fixture design and test setup documentation Strong attention to detail with excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional team Logical problem-solving approach with ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical systems Self-motivated with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced development environment Demonstrated experience operating precision measurement instruments and mechanical test equipment Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and written procedures Additional Requirements: Occasional ability to travel Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones Ability to lift up to 25lbs unassisted Pay Range: California $40—$57 USD COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS Base 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: 100% 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. U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS 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. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY 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.