Machinist- Satellite Components

AST & Science LLC; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company located in Midland, Texas, seeks a skilled Machinist. This role involves setting up and operating manual machining equipment to fabricate high-precision components for satellite hardware. The ideal candidate must have over 3 years of experience in machining, a strong grasp of machining fundamentals, and the ability to interpret technical drawings. Responsibilities include operating milling machines, conducting part inspections, and maintaining shop equipment. Join a mission-driven team focused on bridging connectivity gaps in the mobile industry.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on experience operating and setting up manual machining equipment.
• Strong understanding of machining fundamentals and mechanical principles.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience operating manual mills, lathes, and drill presses.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual milling machines and lathes.
• Machine precision components from raw stock to specifications.
• Interpret and work from engineering drawings.
• Perform layout work and part inspection.

Skills

Operating manual machining equipment

Interpreting blueprints and technical drawings

Using standard inspection tools

Education

Technical degree or formal machinist training

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 Summary

The Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating manual machining equipment to fabricate high-precision components used in satellite hardware, tooling, and ground support equipment. This role supports production, engineering development, and manufacturing operations through accurate, repeatable machining of metal, plastics, and composite materials.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and related equipment
• Machine precision components from raw stock to print specifications
• Fabricate, modify, and repair mechanical instruments, tooling, fixtures, and assembly aids
• Interpret and work from engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions
• Perform layout work, part inspection, and dimensional verification using standard metrology tools
• Troubleshoot machining issues and recommend process improvements
• Maintain and service shop equipment to ensure safe and reliable operation
• Support urgent production and prototype machining needs as required

Minimum Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on experience operating and setting up manual machining equipment
• Strong understanding of machining fundamentals, mechanical principles, and shop mathematics
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
• Experience operating manual mills, lathes, and drill presses
• Proficient with standard inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, indicators, etc.)
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of machining experience in aerospace or precision manufacturing
• Technical degree or formal machinist training
• Experience working with tight-tolerance components
• Familiarity with composite materials machining
• Laser tracker experience

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.