Lead Systems Engineer

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 OverviewWe areseeking a Mid-Level Systems Engineer to join our growing team in Lanham, MD. This role is designed for a versatile, senior-enough engineer who can both lead and execute: stepping into project lead roles, driving technical budget development, shaping new concepts, and filling critical gaps across programs as business needs evolve.The ideal candidate brings demonstrated SE lead experience from prior programs and thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment where no two days look the same.Key Responsibilities:Serve as Systems Engineer Lead on assigned programs, owning technical direction from requirements definition through verification and validationDevelop, maintain, and track technical budgets (mass, power, link, schedule) across multiple subsystemsLead the development of new mission concepts and system architectures in response to customer or internal needsTranslate high-level requirements into actionable subsystem and interface specificationsCoordinate across engineering disciplines (RF, software, mechanical, electrical) to drive system-level integration and resolve cross-cutting issuesSupport proposal and business development efforts, including technical writing, basis-of-estimate development, and cost/schedule inputsFacilitate and participate in design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR) and technical interchange meetings (TIMs)Identify and mitigate programmatic and technical risks; maintain risk registers and present findings to program leadershipMentor junior systems engineers and contribute to team process improvement initiativesQualificationsEducation:Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field required; Master's degree preferredExperience:A minimum of 7 years of systems engineering experience, with at least 2 years serving as an SE Lead on a program of recordPreferred Qualifications: Master's degree in a relevant engineering disciplineExperience in space, satellite, or defense programsExperience with requirements management tools and configuration control processesSoft Skills:Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to lead and influence across cross-functional teamsExcellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to brief technical and executive audiencesComfort operating in ambiguity — able to define the path forward when requirements are incomplete or roles are fluidStrong analytical and problem-solving ability with meticulous attention to detail across documentation and deliverablesAbility to manage multiple competing priorities in a dynamic, fast-moving environmentSelf-starter who takes ownership and drives issues to closure without close supervisionTechnology Stack:Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation, analysis, and reportingRequirements management tools: DOORS, Jama, or equivalentMBSE tools: Cameo Systems Modeler or equivalent (preferred)MATLAB / Simulink for analysis and trade studies (preferred)Confluence and Jira for program tracking and collaborationSTK (Systems Tool Kit) for mission analysis (preferred)Physical RequirementsAbility to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periodsOccasional travel to other AST SpaceMobile facilities or customer/government sites (up to 20%)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.