Environmental & Thermal Controls Systems Technician II

At Vast, our mission is to contribute to a future where billions of people are living and thriving in space. We are building artificial gravity space stations, allowing long-term stays in space without the adverse effects of zero-gravity. Our initial crewed space habitat will be Haven-1, scheduled to be the world’s first commercial space station when it launches into low earth orbit in May 2026. 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 an Environmental & Thermal Controls Systems Technician II to play a vital role in the development, verification, and validation of spacecraft fluid systems. These systems involve the movement, control, and containment of various hydraulic fluids/gases and testing media (like liquid nitrogen, Helium, and Gaseous Nitrogen), and environmental control systems. for Haven-1 and beyond. 

This will be a full-time, non-exempt position in our Long Beach location. 

Responsibilities: 

• Assemble, install, and test high-pressure fluid systems (including oxygen and refrigerants) and flight hardware
• Operate test stands and execute procedures to validate pressure, temperature, flow, and leak integrity
• Support in Thermal Vacuum, EMI, & Vibration testing
• Connect instrumentation, valves, and sensors per engineering schematics and activate systems validating health and functionality
• Perform pneumatic, cryogenic, and hazardous fluid handling and testing demonstrating diligence and safety conscious practices
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and detailed work instructions
• Use precision tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, and calipers, along with general mechanical tools independently
• Use data acquisition systems to monitor and evaluate sensor readings
• Identify, report, and assist in troubleshooting anomalies or test failures
• Support/conduct test campaigns for development, qualification, acceptance, and investigations
• Prepare and maintain clean, leak-free ground support fluid systems following industry standards
• Support spacecraft operations including fueling and fluid line purging
• Validate flight hardware prior to integration and launch
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of test equipment
• Maintain cleanliness, consumables, tool control, and readiness of lab and workshop environments
• Ensure safe, timely, and professional execution of all production tasks
• Perform other related duties to support an efficient and effective work environment i.e. 5s, project updates, etc.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of experience in hardware assembly, test, and/or installation of fluid systems

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience in aerospace, aviation, military, power and gas, or other high-reliability operating environments
• Hands-on experience assembling and testing thermal control systems, propulsion systems, or similar hardware
• Skilled in precision cleaning and assembly of precision-cleaned systems, including ISO 7 & ISO 8 cleanroom work
• Background working with Developmental flight hardware in fast-paced production environments
• Proficient in the use of hand tools, power tools, and machinery requiring manual dexterity and attention to detail
• Experience building, modifying, troubleshooting, maintaining, and operating high-pressure and hazardous systems (e.g., cryogenic, flammable, pyrophoric, hypergolic, or high voltage)
• Familiar with Electrical and fluid system schematics and able to identify and explain commonly used components
• Experience with automation and control systems, including data acquisition systems and programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
• Proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings(GD&T), manuals, and engineering documentation
• Familiarity with relevant aerospace testing standards (e.g., SMC-S-016, MIL-STD-810G, GSFC-STD-7000B)
• Skilled in operating forklifts, cranes, and other heavy equipment
• Competent with precision measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges, sensors)
• Strong team player with effective verbal and written communication skills
• Adaptable to rapidly shifting roles and responsibilities in a dynamic work environment
• Experienced with JIRA, Confluence, and collaborative project managing  digital tools
• Proficient in MS Office and Google Workspace applications

Additional Requirements:

• Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed
• Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs. unassisted
• Must be able to climb ladders and be comfortable working in tight spaces
• Must be willing to travel when needed from weeks at a time to support vehicle testing and integration (Mojave, Ohio, Florida)

Pay Range: 

• Technician II: $28.00 - $40.00 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY