Satellite Mechanical/Structural Engineer

Employer description

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

Position Overview 

We are seeking an experienced Satellite Mechanical/Structural Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of satellite structures and launch vehicle adapters. This role involves both non-recurring and sustaining activities for mechanical structures, mechanisms accommodation, and related elements, ensuring successful delivery to integration and testing. The ideal candidate will be innovative, collaborative, and capable of working autonomously while also leading small teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and system trade studies to determine optimal architecture for satellite structures and launch vehicle adapters.
• Execute design and evaluation of assigned projects using sound engineering principles and program requirements.
• Develop structural configurations, testing requirements, materials, processes, and tools.
• Create and maintain mechanical/structure design documentation: analysis reports, interface control drawings, test procedures, and manufacturing drawings.
• Prepare and present design and readiness reviews to management and peers.
• Troubleshoot anomalies, perform root-cause analysis, and implement resolutions.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to ensure efficient transfer of design information.
• Champion new technologies and methods to improve design and production.
• Communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams to support integration and testing.

Qualifications

Education:

Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or related technical field.

Experience:

A minimum of 15 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design, integration, and testing of spacecraft and launch vehicle structures.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in stress and static load testing for satellite or launch vehicle structures.
• Familiarity with design for manufacturability and on-orbit environments.
• Experience with Autodesk Inventor (preferred) or other CAD tools such as CATIA, SolidWorks, CREO.

Soft Skills

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail for documentation and deliverables.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Technology Stack

• CAD software: Autodesk Inventor (preferred), CATIA, SolidWorks, CREO.
• Proficiency in structural analysis tools and documentation systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to travel 25%–40% as 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.