Vast
Mechanical Engineer I, Thermal Control Systems
About this role
Vast seeks a Mechanical Engineer I to design and develop thermal control systems for next-generation artificial-gravity space stations, from concept through validation and production. You'll own the full project lifecycle while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and performing hands-on testing of critical hardware like heat exchangers and cold plates.
What you'll do
- Design and develop thermal control system components from initial trades through full validation
- Iterate on manufacturing processes and lead development testing in a fast-paced environment
- Manage project timelines from early design through production, launch, and orbit insertion
- Perform systems engineering tasks and fluid flow analyses
- Lead design reviews with internal teams, suppliers, and customers
- Ensure designs are manufacturable, reliable, and integrate with avionics and software systems
What they're looking for
- Thermal systems design and heat transfer analysis
- Fluid dynamics and pneumatic/hydraulic systems
- CAD modeling (NX preferred)
- Structural analysis (hand calculations, FEMAP, ANSYS)
- GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis
- Manufacturing processes (machining, welding, brazing, tube bending)
- Problem-solving and root cause failure analysis
- Cross-functional team collaboration
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Vast
Vast develops Haven-1, a human-rated space station, and is hiring design reliability engineers across thermal, structures, propulsion, and avionics systems to ensure safe operations, as well as construction project engineers to support the station's development and construction.
- Website
- vast.com
Likely interview questions
- Walk us through a time you owned a hardware component from design through testing—what challenges did you face and how did you solve them?
- How would you approach designing a heat exchanger for a space environment where weight and reliability are critical?