Payload Operations Engineer

AST SpaceMobile•Lanham, MD

1d•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. We are seeking a Payload Operations Engineer to operate AST satellite payload subsystems in support of constellation service and in-orbit testing. This is an onsite, day-staff shift position supporting the AST Satellite Operations Centers (SOCs) in Lanham, MD, with occasional weekend, holiday, and on-call support required to provide 24x7 payload operations. The role works closely with SOC, Network Operations Center (NOC), and subsystem engineers to maintain payload health and commercial service levels, and supports development of the automated tools used to operate the payload.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) field.
2+ years of relevant experience
Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Card holder.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or additional experience is preferred.
Experience working with satellite communication payloads.
Multi-satellite LEO constellation experience.
Demonstrated ability to drive requirements for concepts of operation.
Familiarity with version control software, preferably Git.
Familiarity with the Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence).
Programming experience in at least one modern language such as Java, Python, Matlab, or C#.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work in an environment with rapidly evolving system requirements.
Demonstrated ability to work independently.
Technical understanding of satellite system architecture and subsystem functionality.
High level of problem-solving capabilities.
Familiarity with engineering analysis tools.

Responsibilities

Support development of payload operations tools required for efficient, automated payload tasks.
Operate payload tools to create all configuration items required for payload in-orbit testing (IOT) and commercial service.
Monitor service/test automation and analyze results through evaluation of telemetry and logs.
Coordinate payload system configuration changes as required to maintain commercial service levels.
Work with tool developers on functionality updates and payload software updates.
Coordinate troubleshooting with SOC, Network Operations Center (NOC), and subsystem engineers to resolve service issues.
Monitor and process payload subsystem telemetry data to maintain subsystem state of health, including power, thermal, and RF performance.
Maintain situational awareness of satellite, payload, and ground configuration and status.
Operate SOC operations software tools.
Participate in daily shift handover briefings.
Support mission product development, including procedure development, test, and validation.
Support system readiness, planning, and preparation for satellite in-orbit milestones.
Attend required training sessions, simulations, rehearsals, conferences, and program reviews.