Principal System Engineer - Payload

AST SpaceMobile; Lanham (MD); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer – Payload to lead the design and development of end-to-end wireless systems across space and ground segments. You will define system architecture, manage requirements, and drive performance throughout the product lifecycle in a dynamic telecom environment.

The role emphasizes leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and advanced signal processing to deliver scalable, production-ready solutions with strong system integration and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years in wireless systems engineering, including design, integration, and testing.
• Experience defining system-level requirements across hardware, software, and firmware.
• Proven experience leading technical initiatives or engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of end-to-end wireless system architectures across multiple domains.
• Define and manage complex system requirements with cross-functional teams.
• Conduct trade studies and drive architectural decisions across programs.
• Own system requirements through design, validation, and qualification.
• Develop and optimize system architectures with signal processing techniques.
• Define telemetry strategies to ensure reliability and performance.
• Collaborate to translate research concepts into production-ready solutions.
• Support system integration, testing, and validation with test cases.

Skills

Systems engineering

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication (written)

Wireless systems knowledge

MIMO/beamforming

Channel estimation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and highly innovative Principal Systems Engineer – Payload to lead the design and development of advanced end-to-end wireless systems within a complex telecommunications environment. This role is responsible for defining system architecture across both space and ground segments, ensuring performance, scalability, and reliability throughout the full product lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of end-to-end wireless system architectures across multiple domains
• Define and manage complex system requirements in collaboration with cross-functional engineering and R&D teams
• Conduct technical trade studies and drive key architectural decisions across multidisciplinary programs
• Own system requirements throughout the full lifecycle, including design, verification, validation, and qualification
• Develop and optimize system architectures incorporating advanced signal processing and performance-enhancing techniques
• Define system control processes, operational workflows, and telemetry strategies to ensure reliability and performance
• Collaborate with engineering teams to translate research concepts into scalable, production-ready solutions
• Support system integration, testing, and validation efforts, including development of test cases and performance analysis
• Contribute to new product introduction and manufacturing readiness by supporting system-level optimization efforts
• Drive continuous improvement and scalability of system capabilities across evolving product generations

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline

Experience:

• A minimum of 5+ yearsof experience in wireless systems engineering, including design, integration, and testing
• Experience defining system-level requirements across hardware, software, and firmware components
• Hands-on experience with system architecture design and validation in complex engineering environmentsProven experience leading technical initiatives or engineering teams
• Strong understanding of system integration, testing, and lifecycle management

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced knowledge of wireless communication systems and technologies (e.g., MIMO, beamforming, channel estimation)
• Experience with digital signal processing techniques and performance optimization methods
• Familiarity with modern wireless standards (e.g., 4G/5G, Wi-Fi, or similar technologies)
• Experience developing or supporting complex communications systems in highly technical industries
• Strong background in system modeling, simulation, or performance analysis
• Demonstrated ability to innovate and contribute to emerging technologies

Soft Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary environments
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of system designs and deliverables
• Innovative mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and technical excellence

Technology Stack:

• System modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, or equivalent)
• Wireless communication and signal processing tools
• Test and validation platforms (lab instrumentation, automated test systems)
• Software development tools for system-level integration (various languages and environments)
• Data analysis and visualization tools
• Standard office productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office and laboratory environment
• Ability to sit and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to support hands-on lab testing, integration, and validation activities as needed
• Occasional travel may be required based on project or business needs

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.