Project Engineer

As a Project Engineer at Vast, your duties will encompass supporting all aspects of project implementation, creating scopes of work, obtaining competitive bids, and conducting job walk-downs with various stakeholders. You'll coordinate directly with the purchasing team for vendor approvals and answer inquiries regarding project scope and deliverables, ensuring that every project remains within budget and on schedule. You will also manage and maintain essential project documentation, a critical aspect of streamlining operations.

To apply for the Project Engineer position at Vast, a Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering discipline is a minimum requirement. However, experience within the aerospace industry focusing on facilities or infrastructure will give you an edge. Furthermore, excellent communication skills, a strategic mindset for problem-solving, and the ability to adapt in dynamic environments are key qualities we seek in candidates.

The salary range for the Project Engineer II position at Vast is approximately $112,000 to $137,000. For those applying as Senior Project Engineers, the salary can range from $130,000 to $159,000, depending on experience and qualifications. This compensation reflects our commitment to attracting top talent as we work on groundbreaking projects in space exploration.

Working as a Project Engineer at Vast offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents. Additional benefits include a flexible paid time off policy, paid parental leave, life insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, well-being resources like personalized mental healthcare, and several quality of life perks including complimentary meals and snacks. These benefits are designed to support your work-life balance and overall health.

Vast prefers candidates with experience in facilities or infrastructure specifics to the aerospace industry, as well as familiarity with space planning procedures. Strong computer proficiency to navigate various software tools, alongside excellent verbal and written communication, are also desired skills. Being a team player capable of handling multiple projects under pressure is vital, and a proactive approach in problem-solving is immensely valued.

When managing multiple projects as a Project Engineer, the key is to assess the project priorities based on deadlines, resource availability, and stakeholder impact. Start with clear documentation of project timelines and constantly communicate with your team to adjust priorities as necessary. Show your interviewers you're adept at balancing workloads while ensuring quality and deadlines are met.

In discussing a challenging project, focus on one where you faced constraints such as resource limitations or unexpected changes. Explain how you approached the problem, engaged stakeholders for solutions, and utilized any strategic planning to adapt. Highlight your adaptability and leadership qualities in navigating through the challenges to ensure project completion.

To meet project timelines, I employ techniques like Gantt charts for visual scheduling, regular checks against project milestones, and proactive risk assessment measures. I also believe in maintaining transparent communication with team members and stakeholders to swiftly address potential delays. Showing your interviewers that you are detail-oriented and proactive will make a strong impression.

When asked about vendor management, detail any previous roles involving bidding, negotiating, and managing contractor performance. Explain your strategic approach in selecting vendors, verifying qualifications, and ensuring insurance compliance to mitigate risks. Strong vendor management skills reflect your overall project management capabilities and attention to detail.

For conflicts, I prioritize open and honest communication. I believe in facilitating discussions where everyone can express their views respectfully. As a Project Engineer, it's essential to listen actively and identify common goals, helping to pivot the conversation towards collaborative solutions. This approach not only resolves conflicts but also fosters a better working environment.

Staying current in the aerospace industry involves subscribing to industry publications, participating in trade groups, and attending conferences. Mention any specific resources or networks you’re a part of to show your commitment to professional development and staying informed about technological advancements. Interviewers appreciate candidates who are proactive about their learning.

Discuss your familiarity with interpreting technical plans and specifications in previous projects. Explain your process for ensuring tasks reflect what’s outlined in the documentation and how you verify compliance throughout the project lifecycle. Your ability to manage technical details will highlight your engineer qualifications effectively.

Familiarize yourself with project management software and tools you’ve utilized, such as MS Project, Trello, or similar platforms, tailoring your response to include any relevant tools specific to engineering. Being proficient with these tools allows you to manage project timelines and communication effectively, reinforcing your suitability for the role.

Provide a specific example of a project where a major change occurred unexpectedly. Focus on how you identified the new requirements, re-evaluated timelines and resources, and communicated with your team to adjust accordingly. This will showcase your ability to remain calm and effective during unexpected situations.

Quality control begins with clear specifications from the project outset. Discuss procedures you’ve implemented for regular quality assessments throughout the project cycle, such as progress reviews and compliance checks against project standards. Your thoroughness in ensuring quality will reflect positively on your engineering expertise.