Materials Test Specialist I

Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station 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. 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 in 2027, followed by additional Haven modules. Additionally, the company recently announced Vast Satellite , a high-power satellite product line leveraging its space station components and the heritage of Haven Demo.

Headquartered in Long Beach, California , and with more than 1,000 employees and over a billion dollars in private capital, Vast has built the facilities required to manufacture and operate America’s next space station. The company plans to develop future habitats and systems for the Moon and Mars, dedicated space stations for government partners, and other crewed systems that will unlock the expanding long-term space economy.

Vast is looking for a Materials Test Specialist I , reporting to the M&P Supervisor Materials Testing , to support materials testing, characterization, and qualification activities for the development and production of human-rated spacecraft and space station hardware. This role will work hands-on in a laboratory environment preparing samples, operating test equipment, collecting data, and supporting engineers in evaluating materials and manufacturing processes for flight applications.

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

Responsibilities:

Perform hands-on materials testing and characterization in support of spacecraft development, qualification, and production

Prepare, label, track, and document material specimens and test samples according to established procedures and specifications

Set up and operate laboratory test equipment used to evaluate mechanical, thermal, physical, and environmental material properties

Support testing of metals, polymers, adhesives, coatings, composites, elastomers, and other materials used in spacecraft hardware

Execute testing according to engineering test plans, work instructions, ASTM standards, NASA standards, and internal specifications

Collect, organize, and document test data while ensuring accuracy, traceability, and proper configuration control

Assist Materials & Processes engineers with material qualification and process validation testing.

Perform routine inspection and measurement of test specimens using laboratory and dimensional inspection equipment

Support environmental testing activities including thermal cycling, vacuum compatibility/outgassing, flammability, and other spacecraft-specific material evaluations

Maintain laboratory equipment, tooling, fixtures, consumables, and test areas to ensure safe and efficient operations

Identify unexpected test results, equipment issues, or material nonconformances and escalate findings to the appropriate engineering team

Assist with failure investigations and root-cause analysis by preparing samples and supporting material characterization activities

Maintain accurate laboratory records, test logs, equipment calibration status, and material traceability documentation

Work closely with Materials & Processes, Manufacturing, Quality, Design Engineering, and Production teams to support hardware development and build schedules

Follow all applicable safety procedures when handling chemicals, materials, test equipment, and laboratory processes

Support continuous improvement of laboratory procedures, test methods, fixtures, and workflows

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED

5+ years of experience working in a laboratory, manufacturing, testing, inspection, quality, or other hands-on technical environment

Experience following written technical procedures, work instructions, or test specifications.

Ability to accurately collect, document, and communicate technical data

Basic proficiency using hand tools, measurement equipment, and/or laboratory equipment

Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Excel and electronic documentation systems

Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records and material traceability

Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional technical team

Preferred Skills & Experience:

Associate degree or technical certification in materials science, engineering technology, chemistry, manufacturing, aerospace, or a related technical discipline

Experience working in aerospace, spacecraft, automotive, defense, medical device, or another highly regulated manufacturing environment

Hands-on experience with material specimen preparation, mechanical testing, environmental testing, or material characterization

Experience with tensile, compression, hardness, adhesion, thermal, or other mechanical/material testing methods

Familiarity with materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, composites, adhesives, polymers, coatings, and elastomers

Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as universal testing machines, hardness testers, environmental chambers, microscopes, ovens, balances, or dimensional inspection equipment

Familiarity with ASTM, NASA, or aerospace material testing standards

Experience supporting material qualification, process qualification, failure analysis, or root-cause investigations

Experience working within AS9100 or another quality-controlled manufacturing environment

Familiarity with material certifications, lot traceability, calibration requirements, and controlled documentation

Experience safely handling chemicals and following laboratory safety and hazardous material procedures

Ability to read engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation

Additional Requirements:

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted

Ability to stand for extended periods and perform hands-on laboratory work

Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required

Willingness to work overtime and/or weekends when necessary to support critical test, production, and mission milestones

Pay Range: California

$41 — $58 USD

We calibrate level and compensation to the selected candidate's experience and demonstrated capability. We welcome applicants across a range of experience levels to apply.

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, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, and other discounts and perks. We also take pride in offering exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee & onsite barista, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge, and lunch subsidized as part of Vast’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees.

U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS

The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must eithe