Structural Technician (El Paso, TX → Midland, TX)

AST SpaceMobile; El Paso (TX); On-site; USD 27,552 - 31,684; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401(k)

Life insurance

PTO / sick leave

Temporary housing support

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile in El Paso, Texas is seeking a Structural Technician to support spacecraft manufacturing. This hands-on position involves assembling structural components and maintaining high-quality standards. Candidates should have over three years of relevant experience, familiarity with aerospace fasteners, and skills in reading blueprints. The role offers a competitive hourly rate, benefits like medical coverage and a 401(k), and relocation support for new hires.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in manufacturing, aerospace structures or aircraft assembly.
• Experience with structural installs and aerospace fasteners.
• Ability to understand engineering drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Assemble spacecraft structural components using engineering drawings.
• Install aerospace fasteners to specification.
• Maintain quality and configuration control standards.

Skills

Manufacturing experience

Precision mechanical build work

Ability to read blueprints

Experience with rivets and fasteners

Familiarity with precision tools

Education

Technical certificate or associate degree

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Torque tools

Job description

Position Overview

We’re hiring a Structural Technician to support spacecraft manufacturing, assembling the primary structures that satellites are built around. This hands‑on build role inside our Control Sat (CSAT) structures group is responsible for the assembly and maintenance of the core satellite structure.

Compensation & Schedule

• Pay: $20–$23/hour based on experience, with overtime opportunities. Higher‑level roles are available for more experienced candidates at increased pay.
• Schedule: Standard shift is Monday–Thursday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (4x10) with paid lunch and breaks.
• Flexibility: Night and weekend shifts with increased pay are also available depending on experience and team needs.

What You’ll Do

• Assemble spacecraft structural components and subassemblies using engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Install aerospace fasteners (rivets, bolts, nut plates, specialty hardware) to spec.
• Perform drilling, reaming, countersinking, deburring, and precision fitting.
• Build and bond composite and metallic structures (frames, panels, deployables).
• Execute precision alignment and fit‑up to tight tolerances.
• Partner with manufacturing engineers to troubleshoot and improve builds.
• Maintain strict quality, documentation, and configuration control standards.
• Inspect assemblies for structural integrity and dimensional accuracy.
• Support integration, modifications, and structural repairs as needed.

What You Bring

• 3+ years in manufacturing, aerospace structures, aircraft assembly, or precision mechanical build work.
• Experience with rivets, fasteners, and structural installs.
• Ability to read and work from blueprints and engineering drawings.
• Experience with metals (aluminum, titanium, stainless) and/or composites.
• Familiarity with precision tools (calipers, micrometers, torque tools).
• Technical certificate or associate degree preferred.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to use hands and fingers for repetitive and precision tasks.
• Ability to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as required.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to work in proximity to large structures, equipment, and tooling.
• Ability to lift, push, and/or carry items up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work near moving mechanical parts and equipment.
• Ability to work in tight or confined spaces.
• Ability to work in environments that may include exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and/or hazardous materials (e.g., carbon fiber).

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision.
• 401(k) (pre‑tax & Roth).
• Life insurance, disability coverage.
• HSA, transportation benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• PTO / sick leave.

Relocation Support (If You Accept)

• Up to $5,000 in temporary housing (first 3 months).
• $1,050/month stipend to support living arrangements after 1st working month on an ongoing basis.

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.