Engineering Development Program (EDP) – Major Assembly- Integration- CSAT Structures

AST SpaceMobile•Midland, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

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 The Engineering Development Program (EDP) is designed for exceptional recent graduates who want to become spacecraft engineers by learning how satellites are physically built. Participants in this program will begin their careers working directly on the spacecraft production floor as Engineering Technicians supporting CSAT structures, integrations, and major assembly operations . In this role, participants will gain hands-on experience assembling and integrating flight components into the spacecraft. As participants demonstrate technical capability and leadership potential, they will progress through a structured development path: Engineering Technician → Associate Manufacturing Engineer → Manufacturing Engineer This program provides a rare opportunity to develop engineers who understand spacecraft hardware from the ground up—combining hands-on spacecraft assembly experience, early leadership development, and a clear transition into an engineering role. Participants will gain direct experience building flight hardware, leading technical teams, and supporting spacecraft production at scale.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields: Aerospace Engineering Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering Manufacturing Engineering Industrial Engineering Physics or related technical discipline
Recent graduate or early-career engineer with strong academic performance
Hands-on engineering project experience through internships, research labs, or academic programs
Experience with mechanical assemblies, electronics, robotics, or hardware systems preferred
Demonstrated interest in spacecraft systems, aerospace manufacturing, or hardware engineering

Nice To Haves

Experience with mechanical assemblies, electromechanical systems, or wiring harnesses
Exposure to aerospace manufacturing, spacecraft systems, or cleanroom environments
Experience with bonding, adhesives, or precision assembly processes
Participation in engineering project teams, robotics competitions, or hardware-based research projects
Strong curiosity and desire to understand how complex hardware systems are built
Demonstrated leadership potential and ability to guide technical teams
Strong problem-solving mindset and attention to detail
Excellent communication and collaboration skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced engineering and production environment

Responsibilities

Perform hands-on assembly and integration of CSAT structures, mechanical subsystems, and flight components.
Support mechanical integration, alignment, and fastening of spacecraft assemblies.
Assist with bonding, adhesives, potting, and precision assembly processes in accordance with engineering procedures and workmanship standards.
Follow strict cleanroom protocols including ESD and FOD control when handling flight hardware.
Support quality inspections and verification activities to ensure hardware meets engineering specifications and workmanship standards.
Assist with troubleshooting assembly or integration issues during spacecraft production.
Collaborate closely with engineers and senior technicians to execute assembly and integration tasks.
Lead and supervise teams performing assembly and integration of spacecraft hardware.
Coordinate daily production activities to ensure assembly milestones are achieved on schedule.
Ensure technicians follow engineering procedures, quality standards, and cleanroom protocols.
Train and mentor junior technicians in spacecraft assembly and integration practices.
Support troubleshooting and resolution of assembly and integration challenges.
Collaborate with engineering and production leadership to improve processes and operational efficiency.
Ensure proper documentation and compliance with spacecraft manufacturing standards.
Support engineering teams in developing and improving spacecraft assembly and integration procedures.
Assist with troubleshooting hardware integration challenges during spacecraft build operations.
Analyze production processes and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
Support spacecraft integration campaigns and cross-functional engineering efforts.
Collaborate with design engineers to provide feedback from production operations to improve hardware designs.
Support development of tooling, fixtures, and build processes for spacecraft production.