Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Control Systems (New Grad)

Long Beach · USD 86,100-122,220 · Full-time · Onsite · Posted Oct 12, 2026

At a glance

Vast is looking for a Mechanical Engineer, Thermal Control Systems (New Grad) to help develop the systems behind human-rated space stations.
The role involves designing, building, and testing novel solutions at the cutting edge of space technology using engineering knowledge and creativity.

Design and develop thermal control system components for our artificial-gravity space station, such as heat exchangers, cold plates, heaters, and heat pipes, with guidance from senior engineers.
Perform thermal and fluid analyses to size components and check that designs meet requirements.
Contribute to design trades and support systems engineering tasks such as tracking requirements and interfaces.
Help plan and run development tests, collect and interpret data, and use the results to improve designs and manufacturing processes.
Work with avionics, software, and mission operations teams to make sure your components integrate with the rest of the station.
Work hands-on with technicians and suppliers to build, test, and troubleshoot hardware.
Design with manufacturability and reliability in mind.

B.S. in mechanical, aerospace, or civil engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related technical field.
Coursework, project, or internship experience designing and developing mechanical components or systems.
Familiarity with 3D CAD and FEA software through coursework, student project teams, or internships.
Understanding of GD&T fundamentals (ASME Y14.5).

Participation in hands-on engineering teams such as Formula SAE, rocketry, CubeSat, or robotics.
A portfolio or examples of designs you've taken from concept through build or test.
Coursework, project, or internship experience designing structures or components for a high-performance vehicle or spacecraft.
Familiarity with CAD tools, ideally NX, and exposure to PLM tools such as Teamcenter.
Exposure to thermal or structural analysis using Ansys, Femap/Nastran, Abaqus, or similar tools.
Working knowledge of GD&T fundamentals (ASME Y14.5).
A curious, hands-on approach to problem solving, including interest in troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
Hands-on experience building or testing hardware, whether through internships, co-ops, machine shops, or student project teams.

Company equity
Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents
Generous paid time off (up to 20+ days of vacation for exempt staff with ability to cash-out unused vacation annually)
Paid parental leave
Short and long-term disability insurance
Life insurance
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan
ClassPass credits
Personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health
Free snacks, drip coffee with onsite barista, cold drinks, dinner meals, and subsidized lunch