Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician

Job description

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight. Position Overview As AST SpaceMobile ramps production to support multiple satellites per month, we are expanding our Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) team with experienced mechanisms technicians who have previously worked on flight hardware in satellite or launch environments. These roles will lead the hands-on build, integration, and testing of spacecraft mechanisms including deployment systems, actuators, hinges, and release devices that are critical to satellite operations. The Senior Mechanisms Engineering Technician will bring significant hands-on experience working with high-reliability hardware in satellite, launch vehicle, or similar aerospace environments. This role will lead complex build and test operations, mentor junior technicians, and provide valuable feedback to engineering teams to improve hardware designs, processes, and production workflows. This is a highly hands-on role supporting precision hardware in a primarily manual assembly environment, requiring deep technical judgment, attention to detail, and leadership within technician teams. Key Responsibilities Support assembly, integration, and test operations for spacecraft mechanisms and mechanical subsystems. Perform build and integration of mechanisms sub-assemblies and top-level assemblies. Support integration of mechanisms assemblies onto spacecraft structures and systems. Support developmental, qualification, and acceptance testing of mechanisms and spacecraft hardware. Perform spacecraft-level inspections and verification activities during integration and test operations. Identify hardware anomalies during build, integration, or testing and escalate issues for investigation. Provide detailed feedback to engineering teams regarding hardware performance, design challenges, and opportunities for process improvements. Lead complex assembly and integration activities while supervising and mentoring junior technicians. Train and develop less experienced technicians on proper assembly techniques, processes, and quality standards. Provide manufacturing and test support during spacecraft production and verification phases. Qualifications Education Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Aerospace Technology, or a related technical field preferred. Equivalent hands-on technical training, military experience, or demonstrated industry experience may be considered. Experience 5–15 years of hands-on experience working with high-reliability hardware in aerospace, satellite, launch vehicle, or similar precision engineering environments. Demonstrated experience performing mechanical assembly, integration, and test work in manual or low-automation production environments. Proven experience supporting spacecraft or aerospace hardware development, production, or testing. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting space-qualified mechanisms such as deployment systems, release devices, actuators, hinges, latches, or similar systems. Experience supporting environmental test campaigns including vibration, shock, or thermal vacuum (TVAC). Experience working in high-rate spacecraft manufacturing or production environments. Familiarity with root cause and corrective action (RCCA) processes and nonconformance documentation. Experience working in cleanroom environments with contamination control requirements. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, procedures, and technical documentation. Soft Skills Strong leadership characteristics with the ability to mentor and guide junior technicians. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship. Excellent collaboration skills across engineering, technician, and production teams. Proactive problem-solving mindset with the ability to identify and address issues quickly. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Technology Stack Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project) Engineering documentation and work instruction systems Precision mechanical assembly tools and inspection equipment Physical Requirements Ability to perform hands-on work with flight hardware and precision mechanical assemblies. Ability to stand, bend, and work in assembly environments for extended periods. Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds. Ability to support extended shifts or weekend work when required to support production schedules. Additional Information AST SpaceMobile is hiring multiple Senior Mechanisms Engineering Technicians to support the rapid expansion of spacecraft production operations in Midland, Texas. This position is salaried and includes equity participation , aligning employee incentives with the long-term success of the company and mission. 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.