Vast

Overview

Vast is developing next-generation space stations to ensure a continuous human presence in space, enabling advanced microgravity research and manufacturing. The company is looking for a Senior Structures Engineer, Lunar, to support the development of systems required for its Lunar ecosystem, leveraging technology and knowledge from previous programs.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the accountable owner for end-to-end lunar engineering projects such as habitation modules, airlocks, nodes, and pallets.
• Work with lunar subject matter experts and systems architects to bring lunar concepts to reality.
• Own the design and CAD development of primary and secondary structures for the lunar ecosystem.
• Develop understanding of static and dynamic loads, vibrations, thermal, and other environmental considerations unique to the lunar surface.
• Define structural requirements, design loads, and safety margins for a human-rated pressurized structure operating in the lunar environment.
• Perform mechanical design and analysis, developing manufacturing drawings and following hardware through the entire process from concept to build.
• Lead trades and own interfaces with subsystems, including pressure vessel architecture and material selection for lunar exposure conditions.
• Work with fabricators and technicians to improve designs, develop processes, and resolve issues.
• Define and execute test and verification plans, including structural, pressure, and hatch/seal performance testing.
• Support hardware bring-up, checkout, and anomaly resolution during build and test.
• Represent the subsystem at design reviews, coordinating with Life Support, Thermal, Power, and Avionics teams on interface requirements.
• Help establish design standards and practices for the Lunar program.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in structural design of aerospace pressurized or human-rated hardware.
• 5+ years of experience with CAD and FEA software packages and experience with GD&T implementation and analysis.
• Demonstrated experience owning a structural hardware item end-to-end.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental
• Vision
• PTO
• 401k

Additional Information

• This is a full-time, exempt position located in Long Beach.
• Ability to travel up to 5% of the time to support vendors, partnership or customer meetings.
• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones.