Senior Software Systems 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 Senior Software Systems Engineer who can seamlessly bridge hardware and software to ensure operational efficiency across mission‑critical programs. This individual will serve as the lead technical program manager for the Software Development Group and act as a program lead on several high‑impact software initiatives. The role includes generating, translating, and disseminating software development and testing requirements while guiding teams across software and hardware disciplines.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate software development initiatives across multiple critical projects, ensuring alignment with program objectives and delivery timelines.

• Serve as the primary technical program manager for the Software Development Group, overseeing project planning, resource allocation, schedules, and milestone tracking.

• Bridge hardware and software teams to improve system integration, communication, and operational efficiency.

• Collaborate with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and software teams to analyze, design, and integrate complex systems.

• Lead and mentor a small team of systems engineers and technical program managers across U.S. and international locations.

• Participate in design reviews, code reviews, verification and validation efforts, and other development lifecycle activities.

• Contribute to the generation, interpretation, and communication of software requirements, design documentation, and test plans.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field (Master’s preferred).

Experience

• A minimum of 5+ years of software development experience.

• At least 3+ years in a technical leadership or technical program management role.

• Demonstrated success managing complex software projects from requirements definition through deployment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.

• Experience with real‑time operating systems (RTOS).

• Background working in fast‑paced aerospace, satellite, defense, or similarly complex technical environments.

• Experience creating and maintaining large‑scale technical documentation such as requirements specifications, interface control documents (ICDs), and test plans.

Soft Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across software, systems, and hardware teams.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams and drive alignment across engineering programs.

• Meticulous attention to detail in all documentation, planning, and technical deliverables.

• Strong analytical thinking, problem‑solving ability, and technical judgment.

• Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment.

Technology Stack

• Proficiency in multiple programming languages such as C/C++, Python, Go, or similar.

• Experience with real‑time operating systems (RTOS).

• Strong understanding of software development best practices including CI/CD, version control, build systems, and debugging tools.

• Familiarity with project management tools, especially Jira and Confluence.

• Experience creating and maintaining technical documentation (requirements, design, test plans).

Physical Requirements

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

• Ability to participate in virtual meetings across distributed teams.

• Occasional travel may be required for program reviews or team coordination

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.