Satellite Mechanical/Structural Engineer

AST SpaceMobile; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Satellite Mechanical/Structural Engineer in Midland, Texas. This role involves leading the design and analysis of satellite structures and launch vehicle adapters, requiring at least 15 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design. The ideal candidate will be proficient in CAD tools like Autodesk Inventor and will lead small teams while collaborating effectively across disciplines. Excellent communication and leadership skills are essential, and the role may involve travel 25%-40% of the time.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design for spacecraft.
• Experience with integration and testing of launch vehicle structures.
• Familiarity with design for manufacturability and on-orbit environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and analysis for satellite structures and launch vehicle adapters.
• Develop tests and document design concepts.
• Prepare and present design reviews to management.

Skills

Stress and static load testing expertise

Collaboration skills

Proficiency in CAD tools

Strong leadership skills

Excellent communication skills

Education

Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field

Tools

Autodesk Inventor

CATIA

SolidWorks

CREO

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 an experienced Satellite Mechanical/Structural Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of satellite structures and launch vehicle adapters. This role involves both non-recurring and sustaining activities for mechanical structures, mechanisms accommodation, and related elements, ensuring successful delivery to integration and testing. The ideal candidate will be innovative, collaborative, and capable of working autonomously while also leading small teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and system trade studies to determine optimal architecture for satellite structures and launch vehicle adapters.
• Execute design and evaluation of assigned projects using sound engineering principles and program requirements.
• Develop structural configurations, testing requirements, materials, processes, and tools.
• Create and maintain mechanical/structure design documentation: analysis reports, interface control drawings, test procedures, and manufacturing drawings.
• Prepare and present design and readiness reviews to management and peers.
• Troubleshoot anomalies, perform root-cause analysis, and implement resolutions.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to ensure efficient transfer of design information.
• Champion new technologies and methods to improve design and production.
• Communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams to support integration and testing.

Qualifications

Education:

Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or related technical field.

Experience:

A minimum of 15 years of hands‑on experience in mechanical design, integration, and testing of spacecraft and launch vehicle structures.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in stress and static load testing for satellite or launch vehicle structures.
• Familiarity with design for manufacturability and on-orbit environments.
• Experience with Autodesk Inventor (preferred) or other CAD tools such as CATIA, SolidWorks, CREO.

Soft Skills

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail for documentation and deliverables.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Technology Stack

• CAD software: Autodesk Inventor (preferred), CATIA, SolidWorks, CREO.
• Proficiency in structural analysis tools and documentation systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to travel 25%–40% as required.

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.