Intern - Mechanical Engineering

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 Mechanical Engineering Intern will support spacecraft (C-Sat) and Payload Module (PLM) mechanical engineering activities across integration, test, and production operations. This role provides hands-on exposure to flight hardware development, including structural verification, tooling design, and manufacturing support.

The intern will work closely with mechanical, integration & test (I&T), and manufacturing engineering teams to assist with hardware builds, nonconformance resolution, ground support equipment design, and structural test execution. This position is ideal for students interested in mechanical design, structural analysis, and spacecraft hardware development within a fast-paced aerospace production environment.

This is an internship opportunity, and you must be enrolled in the following semester. For recent grads, please apply directly to our full-time positions. Please also be available for the following dates: 5/18/2026 to 8/7/2026.

Key Responsibilities

• Support satellite and PLM integration and test activities

• Assist with hardware builds, fit checks, and assembly support during I&T

• Disposition nonconformances and support root cause investigations and corrective actions

• Support planning and execution of static load and structural verification testing

• Develop mechanical tooling, fixtures, and MGSE (Mechanical Ground Support Equipment) designs

• Create and update CAD models, drawings, and engineering documentation

• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, and systems engineering teams to ensure hardware readiness

• Track action items and document test results and design changes

Qualifications

Education

• Enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering

Experience

• Coursework or academic projects in mechanics, structures, or machine design

• Experience with CAD modeling and engineering drawings

• Basic understanding of mechanical assemblies and manufacturing processes

Preferred Qualifications

• Interest in mechanical design, structural analysis, or spacecraft hardware development

• Exposure to FEA or structural analysis tools

• Experience with lab, shop, or hands-on build environments

• Familiarity with test planning or data analysis

• Knowledge of GD&T and drawing standards

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking

• Detail-oriented with good documentation practices

• Comfortable working hands-on with hardware

• Effective communication in a cross-functional engineering environment

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities

Technology Stack

• CAD software (SolidWorks, NX, Creo, or similar)

• FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran, or similar – exposure preferred)

• Microsoft Office / Excel

• Engineering documentation and PLM systems

Physical Requirements

• Frequent work in lab and integration environments

• Standing and walking for extended periods

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally

• Use of PPE when working around hardware and test equipment

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.