Director, Satellite & Ground Network Communications

AST SpaceMobile; Lanham (MD); On-site; USD 170,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Director of Communications Technology to lead the technical direction of satellite communications systems for defense customers. You will own architectural trade studies, guide CONOPS, and mentor a team of engineers to deliver ground gateways and space-based infrastructure.

Experience in cellular and satellite systems is essential. The role requires leadership of architecture development, RF analysis, and collaboration with customers, partners, and program leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field; an advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in communications development and technology.
• Strong background in satellite gateway systems and architectures.
• Strong background in cellular systems and network infrastructure (RAN, core network).
• Demonstrated experience leading architecture development and trade studies.

Responsibilities

• Lead architecture and design of satellite gateway systems and direct-to-device cellular and space-based network infrastructure supporting defense missions.
• Direct trade studies to evaluate satellite, gateway, and handset options against mission requirements, cost, schedule, and risk.
• Provide expert RF analysis across link budgets, spectrum utilization, interference, and propagation considerations.
• Own systems engineering across requirements, design, verification, and integration.
• Drive CONOPS development in partnership with mission stakeholders to match operational needs.
• Mentor engineers and grow a high-performing team across disciplines.
• Represent AST SpaceMobile Defense as a technical authority with customers and partners.

Skills

Satellite communications

Cellular networks

RF analysis

Systems engineering

Trade studies

Leadership

Mentoring

CONOPS development

DoD/government experience

NTN/D2D architectures

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

RF link-budget tools

Requirements management tools

CONOPS frameworks

Job description

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Director of Communications Technology to lead the technical direction of satellite communications systems for defense customers. You will own architectural trade studies, guide CONOPS, and mentor a team of engineers to deliver ground gateways and space-based infrastructure.

Experience in cellular and satellite systems is essential. The role requires leadership of architecture development, RF analysis, and collaboration with customers, partners, and program leadership