Engineering Development Program (EDP) - Mechanisms & AIT

Job Description

Job Description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

Position Overview

The Engineering Development Program (EDP) is designed for exceptional recent graduates who want to develop hands-on expertise in spacecraft mechanisms and integration. Participants will work directly on the production floor supporting the assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) of spacecraft mechanisms and subsystems.

Through this program, participants will gain deep practical experience with spacecraft hardware, build leadership skills, and progress through a structured career path:

Engineering Technician → Associate Mechanisms Engineer → Mechanisms Engineer or Supervisor

This program offers a rare opportunity to learn spacecraft hardware from the ground up, combining hands-on assembly and testing experience with early exposure to engineering decision-making, process improvement, and leadership responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Phase 1 – Engineering Technician

Participants begin the program working hands-on with spacecraft mechanisms and AIT operations:

• Perform assembly, integration, and alignment of spacecraft mechanisms and subsystems.
• Support mechanical integration, bonding, adhesives, potting, and precision assembly processes per engineering procedures and workmanship standards.
• Follow strict cleanroom protocols including ESD and FOD control.
• Assist with vibration, shock, thermal vacuum (TVAC), and static load test campaigns.
• Support quality inspections, verification, and troubleshooting of assembly/test issues.
• Collaborate closely with engineers and senior technicians to execute AIT tasks.

Phase 2 – Associate Mechanisms Engineer

Upon demonstrating technical competence and leadership potential, participants transition into an associate engineering role:

• Lead and provide technical guidance to teams performing mechanism assembly and integration.
• Coordinate daily AIT activities to ensure milestones and quality targets are met.
• Ensure technicians follow engineering procedures, quality standards, and cleanroom protocols.
• Train and mentor junior technicians in AIT practices.
• Support troubleshooting and root-cause investigations of anomalies or failures.
• Participate in design and analysis activities to optimize mechanism performance and manufacturability.
• Collaborate with production and engineering teams to drive process improvements and operational efficiency.
• Develop and maintain documentation, drawings, and test records in compliance with program standards.

Phase 3 – Mechanisms Engineer or Supervisor

After successful completion of the development program, participants may advance into:

Option 1 – Mechanisms Engineer:

• Design, analyze, and improve spacecraft mechanisms, interfaces, and AIT processes.
• Support integration campaigns and cross-functional engineering projects.
• Develop and validate tooling, fixtures, and procedures for production and test.
• Collaborate with design engineering to incorporate production feedback into hardware improvements.
• Lead process improvement initiatives to enhance quality, efficiency, and throughput.

Option 2 – Supervisor (Operations Leadership Track):

• Supervise assembly and integration teams ensuring adherence to engineering specifications, quality standards, and production schedules.
• Oversee daily production operations and manage personnel to meet key metrics (safety, quality, delivery, efficiency).
• Drive employee training, process auditing, and skills development.
• Partner with engineering, quality, and operations leadership to resolve technical or production challenges.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in: Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Physics, or related technical field

Experience

• Recent graduate or early-career engineer
• Hands-on experience through internships, research labs, or academic projects involving mechanical assemblies, electronics, robotics, or hardware systems
• Exposure to spacecraft systems, aerospace manufacturing, or cleanroom operations is a plus

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with space-qualified mechanisms (release devices, actuators, hinges, latches, deployment systems)
• Familiarity with root cause and corrective action (RCCA) processes
• Experience with vibration, shock, and TVAC testing
• Knowledge of bonding, adhesives, and precision assembly processes
• Participation in engineering projects, robotics competitions, or research teams

Soft Skills

• Strong curiosity and desire to understand complex hardware systems
• Demonstrated leadership potential and ability to guide technical teams
• Strong problem-solving mindset and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced engineering and production environment

Technology Stack

Engineering & Manufacturing Tools:

• Precision mechanical assembly tools
• Adhesive and bonding application systems
• Test and data acquisition systems (LabVIEW or equivalent)

Software & Productivity Tools:

• CAD: AutoDesk Inventor, SolidWorks, NX, or Creo
• PDM/PLM: Fusion or equivalent
• Microsoft Office Suite

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform hands-on work with spacecraft hardware and precision instruments
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 lbs
• Ability to stand for extended periods during assembly and integration operations
• Work in cleanroom environments under strict ESD and FOD control protocols
• On-site presence at the Midland, Texas facility required

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands .

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment 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.