RF & Network Performance Certification Lead

AST SpaceMobile; Maryland; On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile, located in Maryland, is looking for an RF & Network Performance Certification Lead to oversee certification processes for devices in both lab and real-world environments. The ideal candidate should have at least 12 years of experience in RF engineering and strong leadership skills.

The role includes defining performance criteria, executing lab tests, and supporting launch readiness. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in a related field and be comfortable in fast-paced settings. Join us to help bridge connectivity gaps worldwide.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 12 years of experience in RF engineering, wireless systems, or network performance.
• At least 5 years in a leadership or technical lead capacity.
• Experience with modern wireless technologies preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end RF and network performance certification across lab and field validation stages.
• Define certification criteria, entry/exit gates, and performance acceptance thresholds.
• Analyze performance data and lead root cause investigations.

Skills

RF testing methodologies

Performance analysis

Analytical capabilities

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

RF test equipment

Network performance monitoring tools

Protocol analyzers

Job description

Position Overview

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.

We are seeking an experienced RF & Network Performance Certification Lead to drive end-to-end certification of device RF behavior and network performance across both lab and real-world environments. This role is responsible for ensuring devices meet defined RF, protocol, and performance standards prior to launch and throughout their lifecycle.

As a key technical leader, this individual will serve as the authority for RF and network performance readiness—ensuring seamless interoperability and delivering reliable, high-quality connectivity experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end RF and network performance certification across lab and field validation stages
• Define certification criteria, entry/exit gates, and performance acceptance thresholds
• Oversee lab-based testing including RF performance, throughput, latency, mobility, and reliability
• Drive field validation activities to assess device behavior in real‑world network conditions
• Serve as a technical gatekeeper for launch readiness, supporting Go/No‑Go decisions
• Collaborate with external partners and internal teams to align on performance requirements and standards
• Establish and monitor key RF/network performance KPIs across all validation phases
• Analyze performance data, identify gaps, and lead root cause investigations
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize device performance and certification processes
• Manage defect lifecycle including triage, tracking, and resolution of RF/network issues
• Support post‑launch monitoring, updates, and re‑certification activities
• Maintain certification documentation, frameworks, and governance standards

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field required
• Advanced degree preferred

Experience

• Minimum of 12 years of experience in RF engineering, wireless systems, or network performance
• At least 5 years in a leadership or technical lead capacity
• Experience with modern wireless technologies (e.g., cellular or satellite systems) preferred

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong expertise in RF testing methodologies and performance analysis
• Experience supporting device certification and carrier or network acceptance processes
• Familiarity with industry‑standard testing tools and performance benchmarking
• Experience collaborating with cross‑functional teams and external partners

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across cross‑functional teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in testing and documentation
• Ability to operate effectively in fast‑paced, dynamic environments

Technology Stack

• RF test equipment and over‑the‑air (OTA) systems
• Network performance and monitoring tools
• Protocol analyzers and telemetry platforms
• Data analysis and visualization tools

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office or lab environment
• Ability to use a computer and testing equipment for extended periods
• May require occasional travel to test sites or partner locations

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.