Lead Structures Mechanic

AST SpaceMobile; Midland (TX); On-site; Confidential; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Opportunities for advancement

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in Texas is seeking a Structures Mechanic to play a crucial role in assembling and integrating spacecraft structural components. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of aerospace assembly experience, working with materials like aluminum and composites. Responsibilities include precision fitting, installation of fasteners, and maintaining quality standards. This role requires attention to detail, strong teamwork abilities, and a commitment to quality workmanship, with a focus on supporting large-scale satellite development.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in aerospace structures assembly or precision mechanical assembly.
• Experience with aerospace fasteners, rivets, and structural hardware.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.

Responsibilities

• Assemble spacecraft structural components and mechanical systems according to specifications.
• Install fasteners and perform precision fitting of structural components.
• Maintain compliance with quality standards and inspect work for accuracy.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical training or aerospace certification

Tools

Precision torque tools

Calipers

Pneumatic tools

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.

The Structures Mechanic plays a critical role in the fabrication, assembly, and integration of spacecraft structural components used in our large-scale Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.

This position is responsible for assembling, installing, and modifying structural hardware including aluminum, titanium, and composite components that form the primary and secondary structures of spacecraft systems. The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, comfortable working from engineering drawings, and experienced with precision assembly in aerospace, aviation, or similarly demanding manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble spacecraft structural components, subassemblies, and mechanical systems according to engineering drawings, work instructions, and specifications
• Install fasteners including rivets, bolts, nut plates, and specialty aerospace hardware using proper torque and installation procedures
• Perform drilling, reaming, countersinking, deburring, and precision fitting of structural components
• Assemble and bond composite and metallic structures used in satellite frames, panels, and deployable systems
• Perform precision alignment and fit-up of structural assemblies to meet engineering tolerances
• Work with manufacturing engineers to resolve build issues and improve assembly processes
• Maintain strict compliance with quality standards, documentation, and configuration control
• Inspect work for dimensional accuracy and structural integrity prior to quality verification
• Maintain tools, fixtures, and workstations in accordance with safety and 5S practices
• Support spacecraft integration activities including structural modifications and repairs as needed

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED required
• Technical training, trade school, or aerospace certification preferred

Experience

• 3+ years of experience in aerospace structures assembly, aircraft structures, or precision mechanical assembly
• Experience installing aerospace fasteners, rivets, and structural hardware
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and assembly instructions
• Experience working with aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and composite materials
• Familiarity with precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and torque tools

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working on spacecraft, satellites, launch vehicles, or military aircraft structures
• Experience with composite bonding, adhesive applications, and structural repairs
• Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing standards and quality systems
• Experience working in cleanroom or controlled manufacturing environments
• Previous work in high-rate production or prototype aerospace environments

Soft Skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Problem-solving mindset with a hands-on approach
• Ability to follow complex technical instructions with minimal supervision

Technology Stack

• Precision torque tools and calibrated fastener installation equipment
• Hand tools, pneumatic tools, and aerospace assembly tooling
• Precision measurement instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
• Digital work instructions and manufacturing execution systems (MES)
• Engineering drawings and CAD-based documentation

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods during assembly operations
• Ability to lift and maneuver components up to 40 lbs
• Ability to work in confined spaces or elevated platforms when required
• Manual dexterity for precision assembly work
• Ability to work in a manufacturing and spacecraft integration environment

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.