Crew and Flight Controller Training Lead

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 a Crew and Flight Controller Training Lead, reporting to the VP, Mission Operations, to develop and execute the training required to ensure all crew are fully prepared for the physical, mental, and technical demands necessary to successfully execute their missions in space.

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

Responsibilities: 

• Develop training programs: Author and implement training curricula covering spaceflight operations, emergency procedures, and mission-specific tasks.
• Conduct training sessions: Lead classroom instruction, hands-on simulations, and practical simulations to teach crew and flight controllers about the spaceflight environment, mission, and vehicle operations. This includes emergency protocols and procedures, including spacecraft evacuation, medical emergencies, and contingency operations.
• Evaluate performance: Develop criteria for successful course completion and assess trainee performance through written tests, practical evaluations, and direct observation, providing feedback and additional training as necessary.
• Maintain training equipment: Ensure all training equipment and simulators are properly maintained and updated to reflect current mission requirements. Assist in the development of bespoke training equipment as necessary.
• Document and report: Maintain records of training progress and outcomes, highlight areas of concern and need for remediation, and prepare reports for senior management and mission planners.
• Collaborate with experts in other disciplines: Work closely with engineers, scientists, designers, medical professionals, and other technical and non-technical disciplines to integrate appropriate expertise and experience into each training session. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or related field
• 5 years of industry experience in a life–critical training role 
• Familiarity with spacecraft systems 
• Outstanding written and verbal communication and instructional skills

Preferred Skills & Experience: 

• Experience with human spaceflight missions 
• Experience with teaching and/or training small groups on technical and practical topics 
• Ability to make independent judgments with limited information 
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment balancing several projects simultaneously

Additional Requirements: 

• Ability to travel up to 20% of the time, potentially on short notice, including to other countries.
• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones 
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted 

Pay Range: 

• Senior Manager, Crew and Flight Controller Training IV: $160,000 - $200,000
• Director, Crew and Flight Controller Training V: $184,900 - $245,100

 

Salary Range: California$160,000—$245,100 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, including: 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, flexible paid time off for exempt staff and up to 10 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, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, One Medical membership, ClassPass credits, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, and other discounts and perks.

U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS

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