Automation Engineer

AST Space Mobile 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 Automation Engineer - PAM Team to design, develop, and maintain automated test and verification frameworks for embedded hardware and software systems. This role focuses on ensuring reliability, performance, and quality across all phases of system development and integration.

The Automation Engineer will work closely with development, integration, and service enablement teams, supporting system-level testing in both lab and integration environments. This position requires a strong combination of software engineering, test automation, and hands-on hardware experience to validate complex, mission-critical systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and maintain automated test frameworks for embedded systems
• Support system-level testing across development, integration, and validation phases
• Develop and execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) test workflows
• Build and maintain automated regression test suites to ensure system stability
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including hardware, software, and integration engineers
• Debug and troubleshoot system-level issues across hardware and software interfaces
• Develop test scripts and tools using Python and modern test frameworks
• Support integration and commissioning of new hardware into test environments
• Maintain lab setups, including configuring hardware components and resolving connectivity issues
• Contribute to continuous integration and automated testing pipelines
• Document test procedures, results, and system interfaces clearly and accurately
• Support service enablement and deployment activities by ensuring system readiness

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field

Experience:

• A minimum of 4+ years of experience in software development, automation, or embedded systems testing
• Strong hands-on experience with Python development
• Experience working with embedded systems and low-level debugging
• Familiarity with communication protocols such as UART, SPI, I2C, or CAN

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing environments
• Hands-on experience working in lab environments with hardware systems
• Experience integrating and validating hardware in test setups
• Familiarity with containerization tools (e.g., Docker)
• Knowledge of Linux systems and scripting (Bash or equivalent)
• Experience with data analysis tools for test results and telemetry evaluation
• Exposure to CI/CD pipelines and automated testing workflows

Soft Skills:

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams
• Proven ability to work effectively in cross-functional environments
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail, especially in mission-critical or quality-sensitive environments
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Adaptability in fast-paced and evolving technical environments

Technology Stack:

• Programming:
  Python, scripting languages (e.g., Bash)
• Test frameworks: pytest, Robot Framework, or similar
• Version control:
  Git
• CI/CD tools:
  Jenkins or similar platforms
• Containerization:
  Docker (preferred)
• Data analysis: pandas, numpy, or similar tools
• Embedded communication tools and interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN)
• Lab and test automation environments

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office and lab environment and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to perform hands-on work with hardware systems, including setup, configuration, and troubleshooting
• Ability to handle lab equipment, cables, and hardware components safely
• Willingness to support integration and testing activities in lab environments
• Flexibility to support extended hours during critical test or integration phases

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.

AST Space Mobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.