Mechanisms Engineer

Vast•Long Beach, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Vast is developing next-generation space stations and infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, low-cost approach. The Mechanisms Engineer will support the development of space mechanisms and report to the Sr. Manager of Mechanisms. This is a full-time, exempt position located in Long Beach, California. The role involves developing mechanisms from ideation through flight, including design, analysis, build, testing, and iteration. Example hardware includes motorized assemblies, linkages, spring/damper systems, rotating hardware, and crew-operated assemblies. The engineer will own critical spacecraft hardware or systems and work with the production team to translate designs into spacecraft. The position may require up to 10% travel to remote sites and vendors.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, aerospace, or similar engineering.
At least 2 years of experience in the design, build, and/or test of mechanisms, structures, valves, or other mechanical systems.

Nice To Haves

Ability to thrive in a team that emphasizes rapid prototyping, quick iteration, and a bias toward action.
Strong understanding of spacecraft and/or launch vehicle mechanisms and mechanical assemblies.
Experience with NX/Teamcenter or other CAD packages such as PTC Creo or CATIA, and a solid understanding and application of GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
Professional or project experience with FEMAP, ANSYS, or similar FEA software, and a good understanding of fatigue, fracture, and crack propagation.
Knowledge of metallic manufacturing techniques, processes, and equipment, including machining, welding, riveting, bending, and assembly.
Good understanding of and experience working with aerospace materials, including metals, plastics, and composites.
Solid understanding of test methods, setups, and data acquisition systems.
Ability to perform trade studies using first principles and engineering fundamentals and make clear recommendations with partial information.
Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and human spaceflight.
Ability to work well in an integrated, collaborative team environment, including frequent interactions with technicians, engineers, managers, and support teams.
High self-motivation, strong organizational and written and oral communication skills, and ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment while pursuing continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

Develop mechanisms from ideation through flight, including design, analysis, build, test, and iteration.
Work on mechanisms such as motorized assemblies, linkages, spring/damper systems, rotating hardware, and crew-operated assemblies.
Own critical spacecraft hardware and systems, taking profound responsibility for the hardware.
Interface with the production team to ensure successful translation of designs into spacecraft.

Benefits

Company equity for full-time employees.
Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents.
Paid time off, including up to 20+ vacation days for 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.
Other discounts and perks.
Free snacks, drip coffee, cold drinks, and dinner meals, with lunch subsidized.