Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Vast
Job overview
The Polymer Chemist at Vast supports the development of materials for artificial-gravity space stations, contributing to space exploration and human space habitation.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves researching advanced polymer materials, operating and maintaining analytical instruments, developing testing methods, troubleshooting equipment, collaborating with engineering teams, and ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
Compensation and benefits
The salary ranges from $84,280 to $142,100 depending on level, with full medical, dental, vision coverage, company equity, paid time off, parental leave, disability insurance, 401(k), wellness benefits, and food perks.
Experience and skills
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Polymer or Analytical Chemistry with 3+ years of relevant experience; preferred qualifications include advanced degrees, expertise in specific analytical techniques, strong data analysis, and experience in regulated industries.
Work environment and culture
Vast values safety, commitment, and collaboration in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary aerospace environment focused on space exploration.
Company information
Vast is developing the first commercial artificial-gravity space station, Haven-1, aiming to enable long-term human space habitation by 2026.
Team overview
The Polymer Chemist reports to the Senior Materials & Processes Engineer and works closely with materials, thermal, and systems engineering teams.
Job location and travel
This is a full-time, on-site position located in Long Beach, California, with up to 10% travel required.
Unique job features
The job offers unique opportunities to work on pioneering space habitat materials and advanced polymer analysis under aerospace conditions with cutting-edge instrumentation.
Company overview
Vast, also known as Vast Space, is a privately held American aerospace company headquartered in Long Beach, California. Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur Jed McCaleb, the company focuses on developing artificial gravity space stations to expand human habitation across the solar system. Vast operates a 115,000-square-foot facility for offices, manufacturing, and integration. The company aims to launch Haven-1, the world's first commercial space station, and has partnered with NASA to advance its technology. Vast generates revenue through space habitation technologies and related services, contributing to the growing aerospace economy in Long Beach.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to emphasize your expertise in polymer chemistry, focusing on advanced polymer materials, composites, coatings, and elastomers, especially your experience with chemical stability, thermal decomposition, and outgassing behavior under aerospace conditions.
Highlight your hands-on experience with analytical instruments like SIFT-MS, TGA, FTIR, GC-MS, and HPLC-MS, including your skills in calibrating, validating, and troubleshooting these tools to ensure data integrity and reliability.
Showcase your ability to develop and refine analytical methods, particularly for evolved gas analysis and real-time volatile detection, as well as your experience collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate research findings into design and testing.
Apply through multiple channels such as Vast’s corporate careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility and ensure your resume reaches the right hiring managers.
Connect with professionals in Vast’s Materials & Processes or Engineering divisions on LinkedIn; start conversations by commenting on recent Vast space exploration projects or asking about the challenges of polymer stability in space environments to break the ice.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description like 'polymer characterization,' 'thermal analysis,' 'SIFT-MS,' 'off-gassing testing,' and 'aerospace materials' to pass automated screenings effectively.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify optimal job boards, and find relevant LinkedIn contacts, freeing you to focus on preparing for interviews and networking.
Jennie Johnson works for you!
Here’s what we do to make sure you’re successful:
Targeted Resume Revamp:
We expertly craft your resume to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and showcase your qualifications, making you stand out as a top-tier candidate.
Job Description Dissection:
Unpack the job posting with expert analysis, ensuring your application hits every key requirement.
Bespoke Cover Letter:
Capture the attention of hiring managers with a personalized cover letter that highlights how your skills align perfectly with the job's needs.
Interview Mastery:
Prepare for interviews like a pro with likely questions, strategic answers, and insightful questions for you to ask, setting you apart as an informed candidate.
Direct Application Insights:
Receive tailored advice on the best places to apply, ensuring your applications are seen by the right employers.
Skills and Gaps Assessment:
Identify and close critical skills gaps to position yourself as the best-fit candidate for your ideal job.
Personalized Email Pitch:
Make a memorable first impression with an email template crafted to engage potential employers and initiate meaningful conversations.
In-depth Research Guide:
Leverage comprehensive research tools to gather effective insights on companies, industry trends, and role-specific challenges.
Detailed Company Analysis:
Gain in-depth understanding of your prospective employer, giving you the edge in applications and interviews.
Strategic Candidate Overview:
Understand your unique value and why companies would want to interview you, highlighting your background and positioning.