Temporary Security Researcher Jobs in California

Security Officer II

Vast is developing next-generation space stations 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. Using an incremental, hardware-rich and low-cost approach, Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station. 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, followed by additional Haven modules to enable permanent human presence by 2030. Our team is all-in, committed to executing our mission safely and on time. If you want to work with the most talented people on Earth furthering space exploration for humanity, come join us.

Vast is seeking a Security Officer II, reporting to the Senior Supervisor, Security, to support the development of the systems required for the design and build of artificial-gravity, human-rated space stations. This is a full-time, non-exempt position based at our Long Beach location.

The Security Officer II is an experienced member of the security team, responsible for supporting daily security operations with greater autonomy, decision-making, and expertise. This role handles advanced access control issues, responds to more complex incidents, and assists in maintaining consistency in security operations across shifts. The position also provides guidance to newer officers and supports security leadership by identifying potential risks or procedural improvements.

Security Officers II are expected to demonstrate excellent situational awareness, clear communication, sound judgment, and a high standard of professionalism while maintaining a secure and customer-focused environment.

Weekday Shifts: Monday–Friday: 7am–3:30pm and/or 11pm–7:30am

Key Responsibilities

Advanced Access Control & Credentialing

• Verify identity and authorization for visitors, contractors, and employees, including handling escalated or unusual access matters.
• Issue and manage visitor and temporary credentials and help ensure compliance with facility access procedures across the team.
• Assist in identifying discrepancies or anomalies in access activity and reporting them appropriately.

Enhanced Patrol & Facility Monitoring

• Conduct thorough patrols of buildings, perimeter areas, secure workspaces, and critical infrastructure.
• Identify potential risks, unsafe conditions, or security gaps and communicate them to security leadership.
• Provide informal guidance to Security Officer I personnel on patrol standards and documentation when needed.

Incident Response & Reporting

• Act as a primary responding officer to incidents, alarms, or safety-related situations, using sound judgment until supervisory personnel arrive.
• Prepare detailed and clear incident reports and assist in gathering initial information for follow-up review.
• Support post-incident discussions by offering observations or recommendations when appropriate.

Operational Support & Coordination

• Escort vendors, contractors, or high-risk personnel, ensuring compliance with security requirements.
• Assist with security needs for special events, operational activities, and facility movements requiring heightened awareness.
• Work with other departments to address security concerns or support operational tasks as requested.

Professionalism, Communication & Support

• Serve as a resource for employees and visitors regarding security policies and facility procedures.
• Apply effective communication and de-escalation skills in tense or uncertain situations.
• Maintain organized, accurate daily logs, reports, and security documentation.

General

• Perform all duties in alignment with security protocols, company policies, and expectations of a senior-level officer.
• Carry out additional assignments as directed to support the overall security mission.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid California BSIS Guard Card (or ability to obtain prior to employment).
• Five or more years of experience in security operations, preferably in aerospace, industrial, or similarly technical environments.
• Proven proficiency in incident response, report writing, and enforcing security standards with limited supervision.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Strong customer service and communication skills with a professional, confident demeanor.
• Experience assisting or guiding less-experienced officers is a plus.
• Training or certifications in areas such as de-escalation, emergency response, defensive tactics, or advanced report writing.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining alignment with procedures and expectations.

Additional Requirements

• Must be available for required shifts, including overtime, weekends, and holidays as operational needs require.
• Ability to stand, walk, and conduct patrols for extended periods across varied environments.
• Able to work in all climate conditions, including heat, wind, and cold.
• Capable of responding effectively and quickly during emergencies or operational interruptions.

Pay Range: California $20 - $33 USD

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.

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.

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.