process engineer Hawthorne, CA
Job description
Vast was founded to expand humanity's frontier into the solar system and beyond. We believe that the next step on that journey is enabling manufacturing and habitation in LEO. We are building artificial gravity space stations to make this a reality. If you want to join a team that builds amazing things with the most talented people on Earth, please reach out.
Vast is looking for a Process Engineer, reporting to the VP of Manufacturing, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. This will be an exempt role located in our Hawthorne location.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Process Engineer to take ownership of our precision cleaning and metal finishing operations. As a Process Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and optimizing cleaning and finishing processes to ensure high-quality results and operational efficiency. You will play a key role in maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations, while continuously improving our processes and driving cost reduction initiatives.
Responsibilities:
- Process Development: Design and develop efficient and effective processes for precision cleaning and metal finishing operations. This involves analyzing requirements, selecting appropriate cleaning and finishing methods, and determining optimal process parameters.
- Equipment Selection and Maintenance: Identify, evaluate, and select cleaning and finishing equipment, such as ultrasonic cleaners, vapor degreasers, and electroplating systems. Ensure proper maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of equipment to maintain optimal performance and minimize downtime.
- Quality Assurance: Establish and maintain quality control measures to ensure consistent and high-quality cleaning and finishing results. Define inspection criteria, develop testing procedures, and conduct regular audits to verify compliance with specifications and standards.
- Process Optimization: Continuously improve cleaning and finishing processes by identifying opportunities for efficiency gains, cost reduction, and waste minimization. Implement Lean Six Sigma methodologies and statistical process control techniques to monitor and optimize key process parameters.
- Material Selection and Compatibility: Evaluate material compatibility with cleaning agents, solvents, plating solutions, and other chemicals used in precision cleaning and metal finishing. Recommend appropriate materials and processes to prevent corrosion, contamination, or adverse effects on part integrity.
- Safety and Environmental Compliance: Ensure compliance with safety regulations and environmental standards in all cleaning and finishing operations. Develop and implement safe work practices, handle hazardous materials responsibly, and minimize waste generation through proper recycling and disposal methods.
- Training and Documentation: Provide training and guidance to operators and technicians involved in precision cleaning and metal finishing processes. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process documentation to ensure consistency and facilitate knowledge transfer.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree in chemical engineering, materials science, or aerospace engineering
- 3+ years of experience in precision cleaning and metal finishing processes in a manufacturing or industrial setting
Preferred Skills & Experience:
- Masters Degree in related field
- Strong knowledge of cleaning methods, equipment, and finishing techniques
- Proficiency in process development, optimization, and quality control
- Familiarity with Lean Six Sigma methodologies and statistical process control
- Understanding of safety regulations and environmental compliance related to cleaning and finishing operations
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality results
- Continuous learning mindset and willingness to stay updated with industry advancements
Additional Requirements:
- Ability to travel up to 20% of the time
- Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones
- Ability to lift up to 25lbs unassisted
