Electronics Soldering Technician / PCBA Rework Specialist

AST SpaceMobile; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking an Electronics Soldering Technician / PCBA Rework Specialist to join our team in Midland, TX. You will perform precision soldering, rework, and repair on high-reliability PCBA assemblies for satellite systems, collaborating with engineering, production, and test teams.

This role emphasizes IPC-A-610 workmanship and space-grade quality, requiring hands-on skills with SMD and through-hole components, meticulous documentation, and strict ESD control.

Qualifications

• Hands-on soldering experience on PCBAs (SMD and through-hole)
• Experience troubleshooting and rework to IPC-A-610 standards
• Ability to document repairs and maintain traceability

Responsibilities

• Perform high-precision soldering and rework on PCBAs (SMD and through-hole).
• Replace components, repair pads/traces, install wire jumpers.
• Troubleshoot and recover failed circuits with engineering and production.
• Work to IPC-A-610 Class 2/3 space-grade workmanship standards.
• Use multimeters and basic test tools to verify repairs.
• Support NPI builds and production-line recovery when boards need rework.
• Maintain ESD controls and document all rework activities.
• Ensure traceability and quality records for workmanship.

Skills

Soldering

PCBA rework

Fine-pitch soldering

SMD/through-hole components

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical electronics training

Tools

Soldering stations

Multimeters

Microscopes

ESD-safe workstations

Job description

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 Electronics Soldering Technician / PCBA Rework Specialist provides hands-on printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), rework, and repair support for high-reliability and space-grade electronics. This role supports multiple production, integration, and test teams by performing precision soldering, troubleshooting, and recovery of electronic assemblies used in satellite systems. The technician will work closely with engineering, production, and test teams to ensure electronic assemblies meet stringent workmanship and reliability standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform high-precision manual soldering and rework on PCBAs including both surface mount (SMD) and through-hole components.
• Execute component replacement, pad repair, trace repair, and installation of wire jumpers (“stitching”).
• Support troubleshooting, debug, and recovery of failed circuit boards in collaboration with Test, Production, and Engineering teams.
• Perform work in accordance with IPC-A-610 standards (Class 2 / Class 3 preferred) and space-grade workmanship requirements.
• Utilize test equipment such as multimeters and basic electronics lab tools to verify repairs and support troubleshooting activities.
• Assist with New Product Introduction (NPI) builds and support production line recovery when boards require rework.
• Maintain strict ESD control practices and follow all workmanship, quality, and safety standards.
• Document rework activities and repairs to support quality control, traceability, and production records.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical training in electronics assembly or related field preferred.

Experience

• Demonstrated hands-on experience with electronics soldering and PCBA rework.
• Experience working with surface mount (SMD) and through-hole components.
• Experience performing fine-pitch soldering and working with small electronic components and connectors.

Preferred Qualifications

• IPC-A-610 certification (current or previously certified), Class 2 or Class 3 preferred.
• Experience in aerospace, satellite, defense, or other high-reliability electronics manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with additional high-reliability or space workmanship standards.

Soft Skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to workmanship quality.
• Ability to work collaboratively with engineering, quality, and production teams.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting mindset.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain accurate documentation.

Technology Stack

• Soldering stations and hot air rework tools
• Multimeters and basic electronic test equipment
• Microscopes and inspection tools
• ESD-safe workstations and handling equipment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform fine motor tasks requiring steady hand coordination.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing precision work.
• Ability to visually inspect small electronic components using magnification equipment.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

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.