Senior Satellite Mechanical Design Lead for Launch

AST SpaceMobile; Lanham (MD); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Lead Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the mechanical design, analysis, and integration of satellite systems from concept through launch. You will oversee bus structure, equipment, and payload accommodations to meet mass, power, and reliability targets for launch and on‑orbit operations.

The role requires 15+ years of hands‑on satellite experience, strong CAD/PLM skills, and a track record leading small teams through full design cycles.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical design, integration, and testing of satellites.
• Experience leading small engineering teams through full design cycles.
• Strong technical skill in the design of satellite assemblies for launch and on-orbit environments.
• Experience using analytical tools, FEA, and classical structural analysis methods to support sizing and trade studies.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team responsible for the mechanical design of the complete satellite system, including bus structure, equipment accommodation, and payload accommodation, using CAD and PLM tools.
• Design, develop, model, and test satellite hardware - structures, mechanisms, electronics, and communications systems - with a focus on performance, size, weight, power, and reliability from concept through launch.
• Develop and maintain system‑level mechanical design documentation, including interface control drawings, manufacturing drawings, and test procedures.
• Create, maintain, and improve standards for engineering drawings, specifications, and design for manufacturability.
• Prepare and present the information required to conduct thorough design and readiness reviews with management and peers.
• Troubleshoot and investigate anomalies and failures, perform root‑cause analysis, and drive resolution.
• Partner with manufacturing and production teams to ensure efficient, clearly documented transfer of design information.
• Evaluate and champion new technologies and methods.

Skills

Team leadership

CAD/PLM coordination

System-level design

Engineering documentation

Root-cause analysis

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Siemens NX

CATIA

SolidWorks

CREO

FEA

PLM systems

Job description

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Lead Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the mechanical design, analysis, and integration of satellite systems from concept through launch. You will oversee bus structure, equipment, and payload accommodations to meet mass, power, and reliability targets for launch and on‑orbit operations.

The role requires 15+ years of hands‑on satellite experience, strong CAD/PLM skills, and a track record leading small teams through full design cycles.