Manufacturing FE Analyst

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 Finite Element Analyst to support the development, industrialization, and manufacturing of large composite aerospace structures. This role will focus on applying finite element analysis (FEA) to manufacturing-driven engineering problems and supporting the rapid transition of composite structures from design through tooling, process development, qualification, production ramp, and sustaining manufacturing. 

The ideal candidate combines strong structural analysis fundamentals with practical knowledge of composite structures and manufacturing. This is a hands-on engineering role working closely with Composite Product Engineering, Process Engineering, Tooling, Materials, NDT, Quality, and Production.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute finite element models of large CFRP monolithic and sandwich structures, including cylindrical shells, beams, panels, bonded assemblies, and structural interfaces.
• Support NCR/MRB activities by providing timely analytical assessment and technical substantiation for use-as-is, rework, and repair dispositions.
• Support manufacturing-driven structural definition and Design for Manufacturing (DFM) trade studies by evaluating alternative geometries, laminate configurations, joints, interfaces, and manufacturing concepts.
• Analyze composite laminates using appropriate orthotropic material models, ply definitions, failure criteria, and sandwich/core representations.
• Perform linear and nonlinear static, buckling, contact, local stress, stiffness, and stability analyses as required.
• Evaluate manufacturing and assembly load cases, including tooling support, lifting and handling, transportation, fixturing, clamping, drilling, bonding, and assembly operations.
• Perform thermal and thermo-mechanical analyses associated with composite manufacturing processes, including tool/part CTE mismatch, thermal gradients, spring-in/spring-back, distortion, and dimensional stability.
• Analyze composite tooling and fixtures, including mandrels, bond fixtures, drill/trim fixtures, handling fixtures, and large manufacturing tools for stiffness, deformation, thermal behavior, and load capability.
• Support dimensional-control and tolerance activities by evaluating the effects of tooling deformation, manufacturing loads, thermal effects, and structural flexibility on final part geometry.