Vast is seeking an experienced and strategic Manager, Engineering to lead high-performing engineering organizations developing critical systems for next-generation human-rated space stations and spacecraft. This role will provide organizational, technical, and execution leadership.
This is a full-time, exempt position located in Long Beach location.
- Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams across design, integration, test, and delivery of spacecraft hardware.
- Own execution across the full product lifecycle—from concept and requirements definition through manufacturing, verification, qualification, and operations.
- Align manufacturing, supply chain, quality, test, and program management on hardware delivery and integration.
- Set org priorities, staffing, roadmaps, and resource plans to meet program milestones.
- Drive technical decisions and risk management across performance, safety, and compliance.
- Lead design reviews, trades, root cause investigations, and corrective actions.
- Mentor engineers and managers; build a culture of accountability and technical excellence.
- Own recruiting, performance management, and succession planning.
- Manage supplier and partner relationships across development, manufacturing, and integration.
- Champion continuous improvement in engineering efficiency, quality, and velocity.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
- 6+ years of engineering experience in aerospace or other safety-critical industries.
- 3+ years of technical leadership or engineering management experience.
- Track record leading teams through complex hardware or integrated system development across multiple lifecycle phases.
- Strong systems integration, development process, and first-principles engineering fundamentals.
- Experience leading trade studies, engineering reviews, and cross-functional efforts in manufacturing environments.
- Proven ability to lead teams in fast-paced, iterative development environments.
- Experience managing teams developing spacecraft, flight hardware, or mission-critical systems.
- Proven success leading complex programs from concept through qualification, integration, and test.
- Experience building and scaling engineering organizations in high-growth environments.
- Deep knowledge of hardware verification, qualification testing, and aerospace certification practices.
- Expertise in systems-level troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and failure investigation.
- Proficiency with GD&T, tolerance analysis, and engineering drawing review.
- Background in structural, thermal, propulsion, fluids, or integrated spacecraft systems.
- Strong communication, stakeholder management, and organizational skills.
- Passion for advancing the future of human spaceflight and space habitation