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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Materials Test Specialist I - **Company:** Vast, Inc - **Location:** Long Beach, CA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $85,280.0 - $120,640.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Excel, Configuration Management, Computer Literacy, Hardware Design, Technical Data Management Systems, Test Data, Iq/oq/pq, Electronic Filing System - **Published:** September 5, 2026 - **Apply:** https://startup.jobs/materials-test-specialist-i-vast-9872183 ## About the Role * High school diploma or GED * 5+ years of experience working in a laboratory, manufacturing, testing, inspection, quality, or other hands-on technical environment * Experience following written technical procedures, work instructions, or test specifications. * Ability to accurately collect, document, and communicate technical data * Basic proficiency using hand tools, measurement equipment, and/or laboratory equipment * Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Excel and electronic documentation systems * Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records and material traceability * Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional technical team Preferred Skills & Experience: * Associate degree or technical certification in materials science, engineering technology, chemistry, manufacturing, aerospace, or a related technical discipline * Experience working in aerospace, spacecraft, automotive, defense, medical device, or another highly regulated manufacturing environment * Hands-on experience with material specimen preparation, mechanical testing, environmental testing, or material characterization * Experience with tensile, compression, hardness, adhesion, thermal, or other mechanical/material testing methods * Familiarity with materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, composites, adhesives, polymers, coatings, and elastomers * Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as universal testing machines, hardness testers, environmental chambers, microscopes, ovens, balances, or dimensional inspection equipment * Familiarity with ASTM, NASA, or aerospace material testing standards * Experience supporting material qualification, process qualification, failure analysis, or root-cause investigations * Experience working within AS9100 or another quality-controlled manufacturing environment * Familiarity with material certifications, lot traceability, calibration requirements, and controlled documentation * Experience safely handling chemicals and following laboratory safety and hazardous material procedures * Ability to read engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation Additional Requirements: * Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted * Ability to stand for extended periods and perform hands-on laboratory work * Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required * Willingness to work overtime and/or weekends when necessary to support critical test, production, and mission milestones ## Description * Perform hands-on materials testing and characterization in support of spacecraft development, qualification, and production * Prepare, label, track, and document material specimens and test samples according to established procedures and specifications * Set up and operate laboratory test equipment used to evaluate mechanical, thermal, physical, and environmental material properties * Support testing of metals, polymers, adhesives, coatings, composites, elastomers, and other materials used in spacecraft hardware * Execute testing according to engineering test plans, work instructions, ASTM standards, NASA standards, and internal specifications * Collect, organize, and document test data while ensuring accuracy, traceability, and proper configuration control * Assist Materials & Processes engineers with material qualification and process validation testing. * Perform routine inspection and measurement of test specimens using laboratory and dimensional inspection equipment * Support environmental testing activities including thermal cycling, vacuum compatibility/outgassing, flammability, and other spacecraft-specific material evaluations * Maintain laboratory equipment, tooling, fixtures, consumables, and test areas to ensure safe and efficient operations * Identify unexpected test results, equipment issues, or material nonconformances and escalate findings to the appropriate engineering team * Assist with failure investigations and root-cause analysis by preparing samples and supporting material characterization activities * Maintain accurate laboratory records, test logs, equipment calibration status, and material traceability documentation * Work closely with Materials & Processes, Manufacturing, Quality, Design Engineering, and Production teams to support hardware development and build schedules * Follow all applicable safety procedures when handling chemicals, materials, test equipment, and laboratory processes * Support continuous improvement of laboratory procedures, test methods, fixtures, and workflows ## 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