Mechanical Engineer, Solar Arrays, Haven-2

Position Overview

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—starting with Haven‑1, scheduled to launch into low‑Earth orbit in 2026—enabling long‑term, human‑rated stays in space. As a Mechanical Engineer, Solar, you will report to the Principal Power Systems Engineer and own the mechanical design and structural performance for key components of the solar array system on our evolving space station platform.

This is a full‑time, exempt position located in Long Beach.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of deployable solar array structures, hinges, HDRMs, yokes, and locking mechanisms.
• Develop detailed CAD models, FEA/thermal analysis, and manufacturing drawings for solar array components.
• Own mechanical architecture trades for array deployment, stowage volume, and mass optimization.
• Perform static, dynamic, thermal, and fatigue analysis using relevant aerospace standards.
• Drive design validation through testing, including test plan development, coordination, and data analysis.
• Collaborate with suppliers on hardware procurement, integration, and fabrication.
• Interface with systems engineering, power electronics, structures, thermal, and mission assurance teams.
• Troubleshoot issues throughout the product lifecycle—from design to integration and testing.
• Participate in design reviews, drawing checks, and technical documentation for internal and NASA deliverables.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience with CAD and FEA software packages.
• Background in design, manufacture, and verification of electromechanical systems, photovoltaics, or composite structures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the space industry, including development, build, and testing of deployable solar arrays.
• Familiarity with space mechanism design and aerospace standards such as GSFC‑STD‑7000A, AIAA S‑114‑2005, NASA‑STD‑5017, and MMPDS.
• Proactive problem‑solving skills including failure analysis and root cause investigation.
• Experience in fast‑paced manufacturing settings and design work using NX or Teamcenter.
• Proficiency in analysis tools like Ansys, FeMap/Nastran, Abaqus, or Thermal Desktop.
• Knowledge of GD&T implementation and familiarity with spacecraft specifications such as SMC‑S‑016, NASA‑STD‑5001, and NASA‑STD‑5019.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation: Mechanical Engineer: $120,000‑$140,000; Senior Mechanical Engineer: $140,000‑$170,000
• Benefits & Perks: Company equity, 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, flexible paid time off (or up to 10 days vacation), paid parental leave, short/long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, One Medical membership, ClassPass credits, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, plus complimentary snacks, drip coffee, cold drinks, dinner meals free of charge, and subsidized lunch.