Senior Test Technician

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 50 lbs. 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: 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, personalize…