Lead Satellite Mechanical 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.

Job Summary

The Satellite Lead Mechanical Engineer is responsible for leading efforts in satellite mechanical systems and payload design, including non-recurring development and sustaining activities across systems engineering, mechanical design, analysis, assembly, integration, and testing. This role requires innovation, the ability to challenge conventional approaches, and strong leadership in both collaborative and independent work environments. The Lead Engineer will guide small teams, drive technical excellence, and ensure high-quality execution of mechanical engineering tasks.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform spacecraft mechanical system and payload equipment layout studies to optimize architecture for simplicity, performance, mass, and cost.

• Develop and maintain mechanical and structural design documentation at system and equipment levels, including manufacturing drawings, interface control drawings (ICDs), specifications, and test plans.

• Prepare and present technical content for design reviews, readiness reviews, and other engineering checkpoints.

• Troubleshoot mechanical anomalies; perform root-cause analyses and implement corrective actions.

• Collaborate with manufacturing and production teams to ensure efficient transfer of designs, processes, and required technical information.

• Evaluate, adopt, and champion new technologies, tools, and engineering methods.

• Track drawing and documentation releases to support schedule commitments and organizational objectives.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.

• Minimum 15 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design, integration, and testing of spacecraft and spacecraft components.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with launch vehicle integration.

• Expertise in CAD programs such as Autodesk Inventor (preferred), CATIA, SolidWorks, or CREO.

• Demonstrated ability to design spacecraft assemblies for both launch environments and on-orbit conditions, including design for manufacturability.

Soft Skills

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.

• Proven ability to work effectively in cross-functional engineering teams.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• High attention to detail to ensure precision in technical documentation and engineering deliverables.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Technology Stack

• CAD software: Autodesk Inventor (preferred), CATIA, SolidWorks, CREO.

• Standard engineering analysis, documentation, and mechanical design tools.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.

• Occasional hands-on work in assembly, integration, and testing environments.

Additional Information

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.