Launch Operations Mechanical Engineer Lead

AST SpaceMobile; Lanham (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is looking for a Launch Operations Mechanical Engineer Lead to oversee mechanical integration activities at the launch site. This role requires strong technical authority to ensure the mechanical readiness of flight hardware and significant leadership across teams.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering and at least 8 years of relevant experience, particularly in aerospace. You will mentor engineers while coordinating operations for mission success.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 8 years of experience in the aerospace industry or a comparable high-reliability manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ownership of hardware or subsystem integration from design through launch.
• High proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., Inventor, CREO, SolidWorks, Catia).

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical integration efforts at the launch site ensuring flight readiness.
• Define and execute the mechanical integration strategy and risk mitigation.
• Serve as technical authority for mechanical issues during integration and launch.

Skills

Technical leadership

Stakeholder management

Attention to detail

Decision-making capability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

AutoDesk Inventor

SolidWorks

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

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

We are seeking a Launch Operations Mechanical Engineer Lead who will own and drive all mechanical integration activities at the launch site. This role provides technical authority and execution leadership throughout the launch campaign, ensuring mechanical readiness, risk mitigation, and flawless execution for flight hardware and Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE). The Lead serves as the primary on-site mechanical authority, bridging design, manufacturing, and launch operations while mentoring engineers and coordinating across internal and external partners to ensure mission success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and own mechanical integration efforts at the launch site, ensuring satellites and launch adapters are flight-ready and fully certified for launch.
• Define and execute the mechanical integration strategy, sequencing, and risk mitigation throughout launch campaigns.
• Lead the design, qualification, and deployment of Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE).
• Serve as the primary technical authority for mechanical issues during integration, testing, and launch operations.
• Coordinate mechanical activities with systems engineering, integration teams, test operations, launch vehicle providers, and range operations.
• Review and approve mechanical procedures, work instructions, and non-conformance dispositions.
• Provide technical mentorship, guidance, and task leadership to mechanical engineers and technicians.
• Drive continuous improvement across mechanical processes, tooling, and launch site operational workflows.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.

Experience

• A minimum of 8 years of experience in the aerospace industry or a comparable high‑reliability manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ownership of hardware or subsystem integration from design through launch.
• Advanced background in mechanical engineering with extensive aerospace hardware integration and MGSE experience.
• Demonstrated experience as a technical or subsystem lead in launch base or cleanroom environments.
• High proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., Inventor (preferred), CREO, SolidWorks, Catia).
• Deep understanding of aerospace mechanical standards, safety protocols, and configuration control.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience serving as a lead or responsible engineer during a full launch campaign.
• Advanced proficiency in GD&T and precision interface management.
• Experience working directly with launch vehicle providers and external partners.
• Experience leading small teams or directing cross‑functional integration efforts.

Soft Skills

• Strong technical leadership and confident decision‑making capability.
• Excellent cross‑functional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• High attention to detail with strong ownership, accountability, and follow‑through.
• Ability to lead effectively during critical or time‑sensitive operations.

Technology Stack

• CAD Tools: AutoDesk Inventor (preferred), SolidWorks, NX, Creo
• Analysis Tools: Finite Element Analysis (FEA) experience preferred
• Data/Documentation Systems: Fusion or equivalent PDM/PLM tools
• General Tools: Microsoft Office Suite

Physical Requirements

• Hands‑on work with flight hardware, test setups, and precision instruments.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs.
• Availability for extended or irregular shifts during launch campaigns.

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.