NDE Inspector Level II

Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station 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. 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 in 2027, followed by additional Haven modules. Additionally, the company recently announced Vast Satellite, a high-power satellite product line leveraging its space station components and the heritage of Haven Demo.

Headquartered in Long Beach, California, and with more than 1,000 employees and over a billion dollars in private capital, Vast has built the facilities required to manufacture and operate America’s next space station. The company plans to develop future habitats and systems for the Moon and Mars, dedicated space stations for government partners, and other crewed systems that will unlock the expanding long-term space economy.

Vast is looking for a second shift NDE Level II Inspector, reporting to the Supervisor, NDE 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 a full-time, non- exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

Responsibilities

• Perform nondestructive inspections using qualified methods such as Radiographic Testing (RT), Visual Testing (VT), Penetrant Testing (PT), Eddy Current Testing (ET), or other certified methods as assigned.
• Perform radiographic inspections on components, assemblies, and weldments to identify and evaluate discontinuities.
• Interpret and evaluate radiographic images in accordance with applicable engineering requirements, specifications, codes, standards, and procedures.
• Set up, calibrate, and operate radiographic equipment, digital radiography (DR) systems, and associated software.
• Prepare accurate inspection reports and maintain complete inspection documentation.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Production, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to resolve inspection findings and support production objectives.
• Follow all radiation safety requirements and company Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) policies.
• Assist with developing and improving NDE procedures, work instructions, and inspection processes.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining compliance with customer, regulatory, and company quality requirements.
• Train and mentor junior inspectors and contractors as needed.
• Support cross-functional NDE activities based on production priorities.

Minimum Qualifications 

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or Associate degree preferred.
• Current NDE Level II certification in one or more inspection methods in accordance with ASNT, NAS410, or equivalent standards.
• Current RT Level II certification is required experience with digital and computed radiography is strongly preferred. 
• Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel (IRRSP) certification is preferred. Candidates hired without IRRSP certification must obtain certification within 3 months of hire.
• Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on NDE experience within aerospace, manufacturing, or a related industry.
• Strong understanding of NDE principles, applicable ASTM, ASME, AWS, and NAS410 requirements.
• Ability to learn and operate Digital Radiography equipment and inspection software.
• Strong technical judgment, attention to detail, and problem-solving ability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while supporting a team-oriented environment.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Additional nondestructive evaluation Level II certifications in line with ASNT TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidance in one of the following methods: Eddy current (ET), radiography (RT), digital radiography (DR), dye penetrant (PT), visual inspection (VT), computed radiography (CR), ultrasonic (UT), ultrasonic shear wave (UTSW), or magnetic particle (MT)
• Operational experience using one of the listed NDE methods for the inspection of weldments
• Radiation Safety Officer experience is a BIG Plus
• Experience performing NDE testing within the aerospace industry
• American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft applications including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.
• Experience inspecting advanced materials such as high strength aluminum alloys, precipitation hardened steels, inconel, monel, titanium, and maraging steel (super alloys)
• Knowledge of NASA 5009 standards
• Knowledge of AMS, AWS/ASME, ASTM, standards
• Experience with problem solving tools and techniques including: practical problem solving (PPS), and eight disciplines (8D)
• Basic understanding of Lean principles: 5S, Kaizen, continuous improvement initiative

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted
• Ability to climb into confined spaces

Pay Range: California$33—$49 USD

We calibrate level and compensation to the selected candidate's experience and demonstrated capability. We welcome applicants across a range of experience levels to apply.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Base salary will vary depending on job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, business needs, and market demand. Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package. Full-time employees also receive company equity, as well as access to a full suite of compelling benefits and perks, including: medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, generous paid time off; up to 20+ days of vacation for exempt staff and up to 10+ days of vacation for non-exempt staff with the 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, and other discounts and perks. We also take pride in offering exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee & onsite barista, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge, and lunch subsidized as part of Vast’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees.

U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS

The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. This status includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Vast is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vast is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.