Environmental & Thermal Controls Systems 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) TCS Technician, reporting to the Manager, Thermal Test Engineering, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations.

This will be a full-time, non-exempt position located 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…