RAN Validation Team Lead

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 RAN Validation Team Lead is responsible for leading and executing end-to-end validation activities for LTE Radio Access Network (RAN) systems. The role combines hands-on technical validation with team leadership, lab ownership, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure high-quality LTE feature delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Leadership:

• Lead validation activities for LTE RAN features across PHY, MAC, RLC, PDCP, and RRC layers.

• Define validation strategies, test plans, and coverage for new LTE features, releases, and bug fixes.

• Review and approve test results, failure analysis, and validation reports.

• Drive root cause analysis for complex LTE issues (throughput degradation, BLER, HARQ failures, scheduler behavior, CQI/MCS mismatches, PHY impairments).

Team Management:

• Lead, mentor, and technically guide a team of LTE RAN validation engineers.

• Allocate tasks, track progress, and ensure on-time delivery of validation milestones.

• Support team growth through technical coaching, reviews, and knowledge sharing.

• Participate in hiring, onboarding, and performance evaluations.

Automation & Tools:

• Drive test automation efforts using Python (MATLAB is an advantage).

• Review and guide development of automation frameworks, drivers, and test utilities.

• Ensure efficient use of CI pipelines, logs, KPIs, and performance dashboards.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in LTE RAN validation, testing, or system engineering.

• Strong understanding of LTE protocols and KPIs

• Hands-on experience with RF and LTE RAN lab equipment.

• Proven experience as a technical team leader or validation team lead

• Strong debugging skills across PHY, MAC, and higher layers.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.

Experience:

A minimum of 10 years of experience in LTE RAN validation, testing, or system engineering.

Preferred Qualifications:

• MATLAB experience.

• Proficiency in Python for automation and data analysis.

• Familiarity with CI/CD, Git, and automated test frameworks.

• Experience working with distributed or global teams.

Soft Skills:

• Strong leadership and ownership mindset.

• Clear technical communication (written and verbal).

• Ability to balance hands-on technical work with team leadership responsibilities.

• Structured, detail-oriented, and quality-driven approach

Technology Stack:

Physical Requirements

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

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.