Environmental Test Engineer

Environmental Test Engineer

Midland, Texas, United States

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

We are seeking a capable and energetic Environmental Test Engineer to validate our satellite's ability to survive the harsh conditions of launch and Low Earth Orbit (LEO). In this role, you will be responsible for the end-to-end planning, coordination, and execution of critical test campaigns. You will work closely with systems, mechanical, and electrical engineering teams to ensure mission readiness. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and demonstrates strong ownership over their work, making a direct impact on the success of our rapidly growing business.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform thermal vacuum (TVAC), vibration, and shock testing on components, subsystems, and fully assembled satellites.
• Coordinate logistics and scheduling with internal engineering teams and external test facilities.
• Work with and oversee environmental test vendors during off-site testing campaigns.
• Support test article instrumentation (e.g., thermocouples, accelerometers, strain gauges) and data acquisition system setup.
• Analyze test data, interpret results, and provide actionable feedback to design and manufacturing groups.
• Own, operate, and maintain internal environmental test infrastructure, ensuring compliance with safety protocols.
• Lead root cause analysis and drive the resolution of test anomalies and failures.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of test processes, procedures, and documentation.
• Serve as the subject-matter expert on environmental test equipment and methodologies.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience

• A minimum of 3 years of direct, hands-on experience in environmental testing of aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability systems.
• Working knowledge of relevant environmental test standards (e.g., NASA GEVS, MIL-STD-810).
• Demonstrated proficiency with TVAC chambers and vibration tables (sine/random).
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and technical specifications.
• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on experience with test instrumentation and data acquisition systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with environmental testing of satellites or spacecraft.
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace materials and their behavior in vacuum, thermal, and vibrational environments.

Soft Skills

• A proactive and accountable approach to managing projects from planning to completion.
• The ability to thrive and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic R&D and manufacturing environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross-functional engineering teams and external vendors.
• A methodical and analytical mindset for troubleshooting complex test anomalies.
• Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills for reporting results and documenting processes.

Technology Stack

• NASA GEVS, MIL-STD-810
• TVAC Chambers, Electrodynamic Shakers (Vibration Tables), Shock Test Systems, Data Acquisition (DAQ) Hardware
• Accelerometers, Thermocouples, Strain Gauges, Force Sensors
• Data Analysis Software (e.g., MATLAB, Python - NumPy/SciPy), DAQ Control Software (e.g., LabVIEW, Dewesoft, m+p Analyzer)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods in a lab environment.
• Must be able to lift and carry test equipment and components up to 40 pounds.
• Manual dexterity required to handle and install sensitive instrumentation and cabling.
• Ability to work in an environment with moderate noise levels from test equipment.
• Visual acuity to read schematics and inspect small components.
• May require occasional travel to external test facilities.

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.