Mechanisms Manufacturing Engineer

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.

Key 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

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Experience

Minimum of 2–5 years of relevant experience in aerospace or precision hardware assembly/test.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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