MGSE Engineer

AST SpaceMobile; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to contribute to the mechanical design, analysis, specification, testing and validation of MGSE for a space-based broadband network. The candidate will lead mechanical designs, create documentation, and support integration and test activities.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, at least 6 years of hands-on spacecraft design experience, and proficiency with CAD tools (Inventor) and PLM/PDM systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of hands-on mechanical design experience in spacecraft systems.
• Higher degree preferred; experience with AIT is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical designs and modelling of subsystems and payload.
• Prepare preliminary designs with layouts, interfaces, and testing requirements.
• Develop drawings and interface control documents for integration and test tooling.
• Provide technical support to AIT activities including fabrication and testing.
• Ensure system design meets technical requirements and supports trade-offs.

Skills

Mechanical design

FEM analysis

Teamwork

English communication

Structural analysis

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Inventor

PDM/PLM

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 talented Senior Mechanical Engineer to work in our satellite Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE) contributing to the mechanical design, analysis, specification, testing and validation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical designs and modelling of mechanical subsystems and payload. Preparation of preliminary design with layouts, sketches, testing requirements, materials, processes, and tools, define mechanical interfaces with other mechanical subsystems.
• Develop and maintain mechanical design documentation, manufacturing drawings, interface control drawings for integration and test tooling. (vibration, shock, TVAC, Static Load, Integration)
• Technical support to AIT activities including fabrication, assembly, integration, and tests
• Responsible for the design and capability of the system design to meet the technical requirements
• Support in structural decisions and engineering trade-offs to find the best conceptual architectures and design

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field

Experience:

• A minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in mechanical design in spacecraft mechanical systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Higher degree is preferred
• Experience using PDM and PLM software is preferred
• Direct experience with AIT activities
• Design of large welded steel assemblies
• Knowledge in GDIT is a plus
• Technical skills in FEM computer methods using standard analytical tools and classical structural analysis methods is a plus

Soft Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to work in a multidisciplinary team with other engineers
• Flexibility/adaptability in a fast‑paced & dynamic environment
• Fluent English written and verbal communication skills

Technology Stack:

• CAD software (Inventor is preferred)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to perform light assembly work and lift items up to 30 lbs

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.