Mechanisms Engineer

AST Space Mobile•Midland, TX

43d

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 a highly motivated and detail-oriented Mechanisms Engineer to support the assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) of spacecraft mechanisms. The candidate will work hands-on in a dynamic environment, collaborating closely with design, test, and production teams to ensure successful build, qualification, and delivery of space mechanisms and subsystems.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering
Minimum of 2-5 years of relevant experience in aerospace or precision hardware assembly/test.

Nice To Haves

Experience with space-qualified mechanisms (e.g., release devices, actuators, hinges, latches, deployment systems)
Familiarity with root cause and corrective action (RCCA) methodologies and nonconformance resolution
Working knowledge of ECAD/MCAD integration, configuration control, and product data management systems
Experience supporting vibration, shock, and TVAC test campaigns
Understanding of cleanroom practices and contamination control
Preferred certifications: IPC-A-610/J-STD-001, NASA-STD-8739 or ECSS-Q-ST-70 standards, AS9100, Six Sigma
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering and production teams
Proven problem-solving mindset and ownership mentality
Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of documentation and project deliverables
Proactive, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
CAD Tools: AutoDesk Inventor, SolidWorks, NX, or Creo
Analysis Tools: FEA experience is a plus
Data/Documentation Systems: Fusion or equivalent PDM/PLM tools
General Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project)
Test/Data Acquisition: LabVIEW or similar systems (preferred)
Capable of working hands-on with flight hardware, test setups, and precision instruments
Ability to lift and move up to 25 lbs
Availability for occasional extended shifts
Night shift/weekend shift availability

Responsibilities

Provide manufacturing and test engineering support to Production during build, integration, and verification phases
Perform and lead mechanism-level and subsystem-level tests; develop testing requirements, materials, processes, and tooling (vibration, shock, TVAC, assembly)
Participate in and execute design, analysis, and system trade studies to determine mechanism AIT strategies at system and spacecraft levels
Provide inputs to Design Engineering to optimize manufacturing flow, cost, and layout
Prepare detailed product and process reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data
Execute design and analysis using sound engineering principles while adhering to company standards and program requirements
Troubleshoot and investigate anomalies and failures, perform root-cause analysis, and drive resolution
Participate in iterative mechanism design improvements based on findings in test and production

Stand Out From the Crowd

Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.

Upload and Match Resume