Materials Test Specialist I

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 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-timenon-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