Additive Manufacturing Technician

As an Additive Manufacturing Technician at Vast, you'll oversee the setup and operation of additive manufacturing machines, ensuring that print jobs meet quality standards. Your responsibilities will include safely handling metal powders, maintaining a clean workspace, and performing regular machine maintenance. You'll also be involved in developing efficiency improvement projects, verifying process results, and using post-processing equipment such as drills and CNC machines.

To become an Additive Manufacturing Technician at Vast, you should have a high school diploma or equivalent work experience. Prior experience in manufacturing is essential, along with at least one year specifically in additive manufacturing, particularly using Laser Powder Bed Fusion technology. Strong communication skills and the ability to read technical documents will also help you succeed in this role.

At Vast, you'll work in a dynamic and collaborative environment that prioritizes safety and efficiency. The role of an Additive Manufacturing Technician is hands-on, so you can expect to be actively involved in the manufacturing process while working with cutting-edge technology. The team culture emphasizes innovation, continuous improvement, and a shared mission to advance humanity's exploration of space.

Vast offers flexibility in shift schedules for the Additive Manufacturing Technician position. You can choose to work on the first shift from 6am to 3pm or the second shift from 2pm to 11pm. This approach ensures we accommodate different working styles and preferences, allowing for a great work-life balance.

Vast offers a comprehensive benefits package for Additive Manufacturing Technicians, including 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents. You'll enjoy flexible paid time off, up to 10 vacation days, paid parental leave, life insurance, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, and mental health support programs. Plus, enjoy free meals and snacks at work!

To answer this question effectively, discuss your understanding of additive manufacturing processes, particularly Laser Powder Bed Fusion. Explain how these processes contribute to producing complex parts for aerospace and space exploration, emphasizing your relevant experience and how it aligns with Vast's mission.

Provide a specific example that highlights your problem-solving skills. Focus on the steps you took to identify the challenge, the actions you implemented to resolve it, and the positive outcomes. This demonstrates your ability to handle issues proactively and your commitment to quality in manufacturing.

Discuss the specific quality control methods you use, such as checking machine settings, monitoring print processes, and conducting post-processing inspections. Highlight any tools or techniques you employ to ensure adherence to specifications and eliminate defects.

Share any relevant experience you have in safely handling metal powders, including specific procedures you've followed for loading, sieving, and storing. Emphasize your knowledge of safety standards and your commitment to creating a safe working environment.

Discuss your experience interpreting technical documents and engineering drawings in previous roles. Share examples of how you've successfully followed assembly procedures or schematics and your ability to communicate technical information with team members.

Highlight your passion for innovation and technology, as well as any personal experiences or influences that led you to this field. Discuss how this motivation aligns with Vast's mission to contribute to space exploration, creating a compelling reason for your commitment to the role.

Describe your organizational skills and methods for prioritizing work in a fast-paced environment. Mention any software or systems used to track progress on multiple jobs and how you communicate priorities with your team.

Discuss the importance of preventive maintenance in prolonging equipment life and ensuring production efficiency. Highlight specific maintenance tasks you've performed in the past and how they've contributed to reducing downtime in manufacturing.

Share your strategies for staying informed about the latest trends and advancements in additive manufacturing, such as attending workshops, following industry news, or participating in relevant online communities. Emphasize your commitment to ongoing learning and applying new knowledge at Vast.

Reflect on Vast's mission and innovative approach to space exploration. Discuss how the company's focus on artificial gravity space stations and commitment to employee benefits and culture resonate with your values, making it an appealing place to work.