Materials Test Specialist I

About this role

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

• Exper

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