Mechanical R&D 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.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our Mechanical Engineering team and take responsibility for hardware design and R&D fabrication activities in the mechanical prototyping lab at the AST Barcelona site for one of the major subsystems within the satellites. Success in this role requires deep knowledge of manufacturing methods, hands-on experience in a shop-floor environment, a creative and resolutive mindset, and organizational skills that support fast-paced projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and produce prototypes and engineering models of thermomechanical assemblies.

• Design and produce tools and fixturing required to support the prototyping activities

• Develop, release and maintain mechanical 3D designs and drawings of parts, assemblies and fixtures

• Engage in-house manufacturing resources as well as third-party suppliers. Follow-up production of parts to ensure adherence to requirements.

• Support testing activities on the prototypes when required

• Maintain the prototyping laboratory, tools, hardware and storage in operational and organized conditions.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related technical field.

Experience

A minimum of 1 year in hands-on mechanical manufacturing and/or prototyping activities, preferably in aerospace or automotive industries. Academic experience will be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to rapidly iterate and troubleshoot prototype builds, with hands-on shop-floor experience and independent development of quick turnaround solutions using in-house tools such as 3D printers, CNC machines, hand tools, soldering equipment… as well as external fabrication resources.

• Preferred experience in manufacturing, assembly and integration of electromechanical hardware.

• In-depth experience with at least five of the following manufacturing processes (more than five is a plus)

• Additive manufacturing of plastics and/or metals

• Sheetmetal forming

• CNC machining

• Welding of metallic parts

• Tin soldering

• Mold injection of plastics

• Surface preparation and adhesive bonding

• Fastening, rivetting & other mechanical joint methods

• Harness fabrication and routing

• Hand layup of preimpregnated CFRP

• Spanish language proficiency. English language professional level.

Soft Skills

• Practical, hands-on mindset with a strong interest in hardware.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Technology Stack

• CAD software: Autodesk Inventor, Vault

• Shop-floor tools

• FEM tools for basic mechanical analysis (preferred)

• Tracking and documentation tools for project and schedule management

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in standard office and shop-floor environments involving hardware and equipment usage.

• Ability to support national and international business travel occasionally (expected <5% of the time)

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.