Avionics Manufacturing Engineer 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 Avionics Manufacturing Engineer, reporting to the Manager of Avionics Manufacturing, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. As an Avionics Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the development and manufacturing of advanced avionics systems for our portfolio of space products, including liquid rocket engines and a commercial space station. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams of design/test engineers and technicians to ensure the successful manufacturing, assembly, and integration of avionics components and wire harnesses, contributing to the overall success of the business.

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

Responsibilities: 

• Collaborate with design teams to provide input on the manufacturability and assembly processes of avionics components and wire harnesses. 
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes and onboard equipment for avionics systems, considering factors such as efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. 
• Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent and accurate production of avionics systems. 
• Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges by conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions. 
• Work closely with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of high-quality avionics components, reviewing and approving supplier manufacturing processes. 
• Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of avionics systems, ensuring compliance with engineering specifications and industry standards. 
• Participate in design reviews, providing valuable insights to improve the manufacturability and reliability of avionics components. 
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes for avionics manufacturing. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality. 
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in avionics manufacturing to drive innovation within the company.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 5 + years of experience  in manufacturing engineering, preferably in the aerospace or avionics industry.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Strong understanding of batteries, Avionics power systems, electronics manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques. 
• Proficiency in CAD software (such as Siemens NX) for reviewing designs and creating manufacturing documentation. 
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations relevant to avionics manufacturing, such as IPC standards. 
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to perform root cause analysis. 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross- functional teams. 
• Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting avionics systems is desirable. 
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies is a plus. 
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones.
• Ability to lift up to 25lbs unassisted.

Salary Range: California$100,000—$130,000 USDCOMPENSATION 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, inclu