Supplier Quality 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 Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) - Composite Materials responsible for supplier quality ownership of composite materials and components, ensuring process robustness, material integrity, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement across the supply base. This role emphasizes process capability, risk mitigation, and supplier maturity, with frequent presence at supplier facilities.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Quality Management

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Execute supplier quality performance monitoring throughout development, qualification, and serial production.

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Support qualification of new composite suppliers via capability assessments, readiness reviews, and audits.

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Conduct system, process, and special process audits, including composite layup, curing, machining, and bonding.

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Monitor supplier performance using scorecards, KPIs, and structured improvement roadmaps.

Process Control, Validation & Risk Management

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Ensure control of composite manufacturing by monitoring Critical Process Parameters (CPPs), Key Characteristics (KCs), process windows, and repeatability.

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Perform First Article Inspection (FAI) and process validation per AS9102 and AST SpaceMobile requirements.

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Identify and report supplier risks using PFMEA and process risk assessments.

Material Assurance, Compliance & NDT Oversight

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Review and approve material certifications, CoCs, process control plans, and quality records.

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Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory and internal standards.

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Provide technical support for NDT activities (UT, C-scan, RT, thermography) and review results against defined criteria.

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Assist in quality technical investigations (voids, delamination, bonding failures) and track root cause and CAPA implementation.

Travel & Supplier Presence

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Up to 50% travel to supplier locations to ensure direct oversight and process verification.

Technical Support

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Act as a quality liaison for composite suppliers.

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Advise internal stakeholders on supplier capabilities and process observations.

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Maintain knowledge of composite technologies, including Prepreg layup, Resin infusion / RTM, Autoclave, and OOA curing.

Qualifications

Education:

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Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering (or equivalent).

Experience:

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A minimum of 3–5 years of Supplier Quality Engineering experience, with knowledge of composite materials and special processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

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Experience in aerospace or space-grade composite structures.

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Hands-on involvement with composite NDT and acceptance criteria.

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Familiarity with ECSS / ESA / NASA or equivalent aerospace standards.

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Experience with high-reliability or safety-critical products.

Soft Skills:

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Detailed-oriented and hands-on approach.

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Strong interpersonal skills for frequent supplier interaction.

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Ability to manage multiple suppliers and prioritize field tasks.

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Data-driven, process-oriented approach to quality.

Technology Stack:

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Experience with AS9100, NADCAP, supplier audits, and process qualification tools.

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Knowledge of composite manufacturing processes and NDT inspection software.

Physical Requirements:

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Ability to work in supplier facilities and standard office environments.

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Travel up to 50% of the time.

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Ability to 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.