Structures Test Technician

Vast is looking for a Test Technician, reporting to the Structures Test Engineer, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of human-rated space stations.

This will be a full-time, non-exempt position located in our Mojave location.

Responsibilities:

Maintaining, upgrading and operating  the Haven-1 Primary Structural Test Stand at VAST’s Mojave Test Site.

Installing the Haven-1 Space Station Hull into the test stand for static structural testing.

Service, troubleshoot, and maintain hydraulic actuators and associated hydraulic plumbing used to apply structural test loads.

Service and maintain the GN2 (gaseous nitrogen) pressurization system, including regulators, valves, and associated high-pressure plumbing.

Support Test Engineers in the execution of static load tests on the space station hull, including pre-test setup, run support, and post-test teardown/inspection.

Perform routine and corrective maintenance on test stand mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems to keep stands mission-ready.

Flex to support other rocket engine, component, and thruster test stands at the Mojave Test Site as testing priorities and schedules require.

Follow all safety protocols for high-pressure systems, hydraulics, and heavy equipment; identify and escalate safety concerns proactively.

Maintain accurate test stand configuration, maintenance, and work order records.

Minimum Qualifications:

5+ years of hands-on technical experience in testing, manufacturing, industrial maintenance, or a related hands-on field.

Proficient reading and working from mechanical drawings and P&IDs

Demonstrated experience with at least one of: hydraulic systems, high-pressure gas systems, or welding/fabrication.

High school diploma or equivalency certificate.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

Background as a pipefitter, hydraulics technician, or heavy machine operator with hydraulics repair experience.

Experience with high-pressure pneumatic/gas system plumbing (e.g., GN2, GHe).

Familiarity with test stand instrumentation (load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges).

Experience operating mechanical load frames for structural testing.

Experience servicing hydraulic actuators, hydraulic pump units and hydraulic servo valves.

With common high pressure and hydraulics fittings.

Additional Requirements:

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted and work in an outdoor, physically demanding test environment (from freezing conditions to temps up to 120 degrees fahrenheit).

Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones.

Pay Range:

Structures Test Technician I: $22.87 - $32.46

Structures Test Technician II: $29.37 - $41.69

Structures Test Technician III: $33.36 - $47.35

Senior Structures Test Technician: $40.10 - $56.92

Pay Range: California

$22.87—$56.92 USD