Senior Test Engineer, Instrumentation and Controls
Description For Senior Test Engineer, Instrumentation and Controls
Vast is on a mission 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, Haven-1, is scheduled to be the world's first commercial space station when it launches into low earth orbit in August 2025.
We are seeking a Senior Test Engineer, Instrumentation and Controls to join our team in Long Beach, California. This role will support the development of systems required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in instrumentation, controls, and automation, with experience in designing and implementing control systems for hazardous fluid/pressure systems.
Key responsibilities include designing and fabricating ground support equipment, operating and maintaining testing equipment, and ensuring robust data and control systems design. The role requires a mix of hands-on technical skills and the ability to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
This position offers a competitive salary range of $150,000 - $200,000 USD, along with a comprehensive benefits package including company equity, full medical coverage, and various perks. If you're passionate about space exploration and want to work with a talented team pushing the boundaries of human space habitation, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Responsibilities For Senior Test Engineer, Instrumentation and Controls
- Design, fabricate, and activate ground support equipment and test articles
- Operate, troubleshoot, repair, maintain, and modify manufacturing and testing equipment
- Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of components and subassemblies
- Ensure robust data and control systems design and implementation
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies
Requirements For Senior Test Engineer, Instrumentation and Controls
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
- 5+ years of experience in instrumentation, controls, and automation
- Strong understanding of implementation of multiple different PLC and DAQ hardware and softwares
- Experience with SQL, Labview, Python, and ladder logic
- Experience with SCADA systems for OPCUA and MQTT devices
- Experience designing and implementing instrumentation and control systems for hazardous fluid/pressure systems
- Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting fluids components
- Experience operating complex hazardous systems
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Skilled in operation of machinery and hand tools
- Comfortable working in a rapidly changing, ambiguous environment
- Ability to travel up to 50% of the time
- Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends
- Ability to lift up to 25lbs unassisted
Benefits For Senior Test Engineer, Instrumentation and Controls
- Company equity
- 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents
- Flexible paid time off for exempt staff
- Up to 15 days of vacation for non-exempt staff
- Paid parental leave
- Short and long-term disability insurance
- Life insurance
- Free catered meals and snacks and beverages
- 401(k) retirement plan
- One Medical membership
- ClassPass credits
- Personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health
