Non-Destructive Evaluation Specialist

About Vast

Vast is developing next-generation space stations to ensure a continuous human presence in space for America and its allies, enabling advanced microgravity research and manufacturing, and unlocking a new space economy for government, corporate, and private customers. Using an incremental, hardware-rich and low-cost approach, Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station. Haven Demo’s 2025 success made Vast the only operational commercial space station company to fly and operate its own spacecraft. Next, Haven-1 is expected to become the world’s first commercial space station when it launches, followed by additional Haven modules to enable permanent human presence by 2030.

Position Summary

Vast is seeking a Non-Destructive Evaluation Specialist reporting to the Manager of NDE to support the development of systems for artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. The Quality organization is inclusive and interdisciplinary, delivering high-quality products through rigorous inspection of flight components, assemblies, systems, and structures. As an NDE Level III Specialist, you will engage with cross-functional teams, develop and implement inspection processes, training resources, and drive continuous improvement objectives.

This is a full-time, non-exempt position located in Long Beach.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain NDE procedures and inspection techniques per ASNT SNT-TC-1A, NAS-410, and other codes and customer specs.
• Administer the company’s NDE program including processes, procedures, personnel certification, and quality standards compliance.
• Serve as final authority on NDE specifications interpretation and test result acceptability.
• Conduct internal audits and ensure quality assurance compliance across NDE functions.
• Interface with internal teams and external customers to clarify inspection requirements and resolve disputes.
• Develop and lead training programs for Level I and II personnel in classroom and shop floor settings.
• Mentor technicians on application and limitations of methods.
• Oversee personnel qualification and certification per written practice.
• Ensure knowledge transfer of current methods and integration of emerging technologies.
• Perform inspections to support production, R&D, or urgent customer deliverables.
• Review and interpret engineering drawings and specs to define inspection strategy and ensure compliance.
• Evaluate and document inspection results; communicate findings to Quality, Engineering, and Manufacturing.
• Troubleshoot and correct technical issues in inspection methods or interpretation.
• Research, recommend, and implement new inspection tools, automation, and data systems to improve throughput and reduce cost.
• Qualify processes per NASA-STD-5009 or similar standards.
• Drive strategic improvements in inspection techniques, data analysis, and system integration.
• Continuously evaluate NDE processes for optimal inspection strategies and scalability.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align inspection capabilities with product demands.
• Act as primary NDE liaison with customers, regulatory bodies, and vendors.
• Support customer design and process reviews.
• Participate in supplier visits and customer audits.
• Provide regular updates on NDE project status, capability readiness, and risks.
• Advise management on innovations impacting cost, schedule, quality, or customer satisfaction.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• NDT Level II certification inline with ASNT TC-1A/NAS-410 guidance in penetrant testing (PT), eddy current testing (ET), or ultrasonic testing (UT), including phased array ultrasonic (PAUT).
• 5+ years experience as NDT Level II Technician/Inspector.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• 10+ years functioning as Level III in two or more methods.
• 20+ years NDE experience managing and interacting with RT, UT, ET, VT, PT methodologies.
• Knowledge of standards such as AS, AMS, AWS, NAS, ASME, ASTM.
• Certifications: NDT Level III inline with ASNT-TC-1A/NAS-410 or AWS CWI.
• Senior Specialist: 8+ years as NDT Level II and 3+ years as NDT Level III.

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted.

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary varies by knowledge, education, skills, experience, business needs, and market demand.
• Full-time employees receive company equity.
• Benefits include 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents.
• Generous paid time off: up to 20+ days vacation for exempt staff, up to 10+ days for non-exempt staff with ability to cash out unused vacation annually.
• Paid parental leave.
• Short and long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Access to 401(k) retirement plan.
• ClassPass credits.
• Personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health.
• Other discounts and perks.
• Food perks: snacks, drip coffee & onsite barista, cold drinks, free dinner meals, subsidized lunch.

U.S. Export Control Compliance

• Must be a U.S. person as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or eligible for deemed export licensing.

Equal Opportunity

• Vast is an Equal Opportunity Employer governed by merit, competence, and qualifications without discrimination based on legally protected status.