Manufacturing Technician, Mechanical Assemblies (2nd Shift)

About the role

Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware‑rich, and low‑cost approach. The company 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. Haven‑1 is expected to become the world’s first commercial space station when it launches in 2027, followed by additional Haven modules. Vast also 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, 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.

This Manufacturing Technician, Mechanical Assemblies – 2nd Shift position supports subassembly operations including the build of Structures and Thermal Control Systems for Haven‑1 and beyond. It is a full‑time, non‑exempt role located in Long Beach, California, working 2nd Shift hours: 2:00 pm to 10:30 pm.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture and assemble flight hardware using drilling, fastening, bonding, and other processes
• Use precision calibrated tools – torque wrenches, micrometers and calipers
• Perform work according to procedures, specifications, and test instructions
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers and quality personnel to develop and document work instructions
• Ensure all production services are performed on time, safely and in a professional manner
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment

Requirements

• Strong collaboration and communication skills
• Ability to effectively communicate (verbal and written) with engineering and production
• Experience with NPI (New Product Introduction/Development)
• Read and interpret technical drawings and follow detailed work instructions
• Precision drilling experience (± .001)
• 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 if needed to support vehicle testing and integration (Mojave, Ohio, Florida)

Skills

• High school diploma, equivalency certificate, or equivalent work experience
• FAA Airframe and PowerPlant license
• Experience in the aerospace industry, aviation, military, medical device, or other high‑reliability operating environments
• Demonstrated ability in reading/understanding technical drawings, manuals, and reports
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments
• Experience working in a cleanroom environment
• Experience with forklifts, cranes, and heavy equipment

Benefits

• 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
• Other discounts and perks
• 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

Pay

• Pay Range: California $21.33—$50 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.
• 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.

Schedule

2nd Shift Hours: 2:00 pm to 10:30 pm