Associate Automation Engineer
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 We are seeking an Associate Automation Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of automated systems that improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, safety, and scalability. This role works across production, test, and engineering teams to help deploy controls, robotics, and software-driven automation that reduce manual intervention and enable reliable, repeatable operations. The ideal candidate is an early-career engineer with foundational knowledge of controls, robotics, and software automation who is eager to build hands-on experience in industrial and manufacturing environments.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Software, or related Engineering discipline
- 0–3 years of experience in automation, controls, robotics, manufacturing, or related environment
- Internship, co-op, or project-based automation experience acceptable
- Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Ability to learn quickly in hands-on technical environments
- Detail-oriented with strong safety awareness
- Collaborative and team-focused mindset
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work in manufacturing and lab environments
- Ability to stand, walk, and support equipment on the production floor for extended periods
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 lbs
- Ability to use tools, test equipment, and computers
Nice To Haves
- Hands-on experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or similar)
- Experience configuring or supporting HMIs/SCADA systems
- Familiarity with scripting or programming languages such as Python, Java, or C#
- Exposure to robotic systems (ABB, UR, Fanuc, Yaskawa, or equivalent)
- Experience supporting automated manufacturing or test equipment
- Knowledge of safety standards, equipment validation, and system qualification practices
- Experience with data collection, logging, or industrial networking
Responsibilities
- Support design and implementation of automated manufacturing systems, controls, and workflows using hardware and software solutions
- Assist with integration of sensors, actuators, PLCs, HMIs, and robotic equipment into production processes
- Develop and modify PLC logic, automation scripts, and control sequences under senior engineer guidance
- Troubleshoot automated equipment, controls, and software to minimize downtime and improve performance
- Participate in commissioning, validation, and testing of automation systems and production equipment
- Create and execute test plans, simulations, and acceptance criteria to ensure system reliability and safety
- Assist with robotic programming, setup, and optimization for manufacturing or test applications
- Develop and maintain technical documentation including wiring diagrams, procedures, and work instructions
- Collect and analyze performance data to identify process improvement opportunities
- Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Production teams to support continuous improvement initiatives
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
