Vast Senior Materials Testing Technician at Vast performs hands-on materials testing and characterization for spacecraft development and production. Supports engineers by preparing samples, operating test equipment, and documenting data.
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
Qualification
High school diploma or GEDTechnical proficiency on SyftAbility to accurately collectBasic proficiency using hand toolsBasic computer proficiencyExperience working in aerospaceExperience with tensileFamiliarity with ASTM
Required
High school diploma or GED
5+ years of experience working in a laboratory, manufacturing, testing, inspection, quality, or other hands-on technical environment
Technical proficiency on Syft, TGA, FTIR, DSC, Flammability
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
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
