Engineering Development Program (EDP) - Automation Engineering - Micron Operations

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 OverviewThe Engineering Development Program (EDP) is designed for exceptional recent graduates who want to become Industrial Engineers by learning about high volume space industry operations to support a rapid deployment of Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation.Participants in this program will begin their careers working directly on the spacecraft production floor as Engineering Technicians supporting Micron Operations. In this role, participants will gain hands-on experience assembling, testing, and integrating flight components for the phased array of the satellite.As participants demonstrate technical capability and leadership potential, they will progress through a structured development path:Engineering Technician Associate Manufacturing Engineer Manufacturing Engineer or Flight Assurance Engineer or Industrial Engineer or SupervisorThis program provides a rare opportunity to develop engineers who understand spacecraft hardware from the ground up—combining hands-on spacecraft assembly experience, early leadership development, and a clear transition into an engineering role. Participants will gain direct experience building flight hardware, leading technical teams, and supporting spacecraft production at scale.Key ResponsibilitiesPhase 1 – Engineering TechnicianParticipants begin the program working directly with spacecraft hardware supporting Micron Operations.Responsibilities include:Perform hands-on assembly and integration of flight components.Support mechanical integration, alignment, and fastening of microns into the phased array.Assist with bonding, adhesives, potting, and precision assembly processes in accordance with engineering procedures and workmanship standards.Follow strict cleanroom protocols including ESD and FOD control when handling flight hardware.Support quality inspections and verification activities to ensure hardware meets engineering specifications and workmanship standards.Assist with troubleshooting assembly or test issues during operations.Collaborate closely with engineers and senior technicians to execute assembly, test and integration tasks.This phase focuses on developing a deep understanding of spacecraft hardware, integration processes, and flight hardware handling.Phase 2 – Associate Manufacturing Engineer or Associate Automation Engineer After demonstrating strong technical performance and leadership capability, participants transition into a supervisory role supporting Micron operations.Responsibilities include:Lead and provide technical guidance to teams performing assembly and integration of spacecraft hardware.Coordinate daily production activities to ensure assembly milestones are achieved on schedule.Ensure technicians follow engineering procedures, quality standards, and cleanroom protocols.Train and mentor junior technicians in assembly, test and integration practices.Support troubleshooting and resolution of assembly and integration challenges.Collaborate with engineering and production leadership to improve processes and operational efficiency.Ensure proper documentation and compliance with spacecraft manufacturing standards.Identify, scope, and execute a technical process improvement project to standardize or improve efficiency.This phase provides early leadership experience managing technical teams responsible for building flight spacecraft hardware.Phase 3 – Manufacturing Engineer or Automation EngineerUpon successful completion of the development program, participants transition into a Manufacturing Engineer role supporting spacecraft production and integration.Responsibilities include:Support engineering teams in developing and improving assembly and integration procedures.Assist with troubleshooting hardware integration challenges during operations.Analyze production processes and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.Support spacecraft integration campaigns and cross-functional engineering efforts.Collaborate with design engineers to provide feedback from production operations to improve hardware designs.Support development of tooling, fixtures, and build processes for spacecraft production.Participants completing the program transition into engineering roles with a unique advantage—direct experience building and integrating operational spacecraft hardware.QualificationsEducationBachelor’s degree in one of the following fields:Aerospace EngineeringMechanical EngineeringElectrical EngineeringManufacturing EngineeringIndustrial EngineeringPhysics or related technical disciplineExperienceRecent graduate or early-career engineer with strong academic performanceHands-on engineering project experience through internships, research labs, or academic programsExperience with mechanical assemblies, electronics, robotics, or hardware systems preferredDemonstrated interest in spacecraft systems, aerospace manufacturing, or hardware engineeringPreferred QualificationsExperience with mechanical assemblies, electromechanical systems, or wiring harnessesExposure to aerospace manufacturing, spacecraft systems, or cleanroom environmentsExperience with bonding, adhesives, or precision assembly processesParticipation in engineering project teams, robotics competitions, or hardware-based research projectsSoft SkillsStrong curiosity and desire to understand how complex hardware systems are builtDemonstrated leadership potential and ability to guide technical teamsStrong problem-solving mindset and attention to detailExcellent communication and collaboration skillsAbility to thrive in a fast-paced engineering and production environmentTechnology StackEngineering & Manufacturing ToolsPrecision mechanical assembly toolsElectrical harness installation equipmentAdhesive and bonding application systemsSoftware & Productivity ToolsMicrosoft Office SuiteEngineering documentation systemsPhysical RequirementsAbility to perform hands-on work with spacecraft hardware and mechanical assembliesAbility to stand for extended periods during integration and assembly operationsAbility to work in cleanroom environments under strict ESD and FOD control protocolsAbility to lift and move equipment up to 25 pounds as required for spacecraft integration tasksPosition is based at the Midland, Texas facility and requires on-site collaboration with spacecraft production and engineering teamsThis 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.