Senior Mission Manager
Vast is looking for a Senior Mission Manager, reporting to the Vice President of Mission Management, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations.
The Senior Mission Manager is fully responsible for end-to-end mission success for highly complex, crewed missions. This role serves as the primary customer interface and internal mission lead from contract award through on-orbit execution and mission closeout.
This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location.
Responsibilities:
Personally responsible for end-to-end mission success (contract award through on-orbit operations and return where applicable)
Serve as primary point of contact for customers
Own and negotiate ICDs defining all interface requirements between:
Customer hardware and Haven space stations
Crew transport vehicles
Launch providers and ground systems
Lead integration of:
All tasks necessary to successfully execute a mission including contract deliverables to/from customers, tracking hardware/software readiness, ground and crew operator readiness, and overall execution of Vast Flight Readiness
Pressurized payloads and cargo lifecycle
Drive risk management, issue resolution, and cross-functional execution
Lead integrated master schedule development tied to contractual milestones
Coordinate with mission operations, engineering, production, and leadership teams
Support Business Development with pre-sales engineering, customer meetings, and contract negotiations
Trusted to represent Vast to key external stakeholders and customers
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or technical discipline
8+ years of experience in systems engineering, technical program management, or customer-facing mission execution roles
Preferred Skills & Experience:
Direct experience with human spaceflight missions (ISS, free flyer, or commercial crew)
Familiarity with NASA human spaceflight policies and procedures
Working knowledge of crew vehicle systems
Experience leading launch integration campaigns
ICD negotiation with external stakeholders
Additional Requirements:
Ability to travel up to 20% of the time
Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones
Pay Range: California
$151,000—$215,000 USD