Manager, Fluid Systems Engineering

Vast is seeking a Manager, Fluid Systems Engineering to lead the development of critical spacecraft systems that enable human life and operations in space.

This leader will be responsible for building and leading a multidisciplinary engineering team focused on fluid-based systems across the spacecraft, including thermal control, environmental control and life support systems (ECLSS), propulsion, pressurization, and other mission-critical fluid infrastructure.

You will partner closely with systems engineering, manufacturing, integration, test, mission operations, and program leadership to deliver reliable, flight-ready hardware on aggressive development timelines. This role requires a strong technical foundation, hands-on engineering leadership, and a relentless focus on execution.

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

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of fluid systems engineers responsible for spacecraft hardware and systems.
• Provide technical direction for the design, development, integration, and qualification of fluid systems supporting human spaceflight.
• Own execution of hardware programs from concept development through production, launch, and on-orbit operations.
• Drive architecture decisions, trade studies, and system-level engineering decisions using first principles and sound engineering judgment.
• Partner closely with systems engineering, manufacturing, integration, test, quality, supply chain, and program teams to deliver flight-ready hardware.
• Lead design reviews and ensure designs meet performance, reliability, manufacturability, and safety requirements.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Support hardware testing, troubleshooting, root cause investigations, and corrective actions.
• Establish team priorities, staffing plans, and development roadmaps aligned with program objectives.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop engineers while fostering a culture of technical excellence, ownership, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with suppliers and external partners to support hardware development and qualification efforts.
• Drive execution against aggressive schedules while maintaining a strong commitment to quality and mission success.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 8+ years of experience developing complex mechanical, fluid, thermal, propulsion, environmental control, or spacecraft systems.
• 2+ years of technical leadership, team leadership, or engineering management experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading hardware development from concept through test, qualification, and production.
• Strong understanding of fluid systems and mechanical system design.
• Experience working in highly collaborative, fast-paced development environments.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Experience leading teams responsible for propulsion, thermal control, environmental control and life support systems (ECLSS), fluid controls, cryogenic systems, or other high-reliability fluid systems.
• Spacecraft, launch vehicle, aerospace, defense, aviation, or other mission-critical hardware development experience.
• Strong background in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and systems engineering.
• Experience with failure investigations, root cause analysis, and risk management.
• Hands-on experience with fabrication, assembly, integration, testing, and troubleshooting of hardware systems.
• Experience with Siemens NX or similar CAD tools.
• Knowledge of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and manufacturing processes including machining, welding, brazing, and tube fabrication.
• Experience working with suppliers and managing hardware development across internal and external teams.
• Demonstrated ability to balance technical rigor with rapid execution in a development-focused environment.

Pay Range: 

• Manager, Fluid Systems Engineering $143,500 - $203,700
• Senior Manager, Fluid Systems Engineer $164,000 - $232,800