Quality Engineer - CIC

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.

Job Summary:

The Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that all components and processes in the Cover Glass Integrated Solar Cell Production Line meet internal quality standards and customer specifications. This includes planning, implementing, and monitoring quality control systems, investigating issues, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product reliability and production efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Quality Control & Assurance:
• Develop and implement quality control procedures for the cover glass lamination, cell integration, laser processing, and encapsulation steps.
• Monitor process quality through in-line inspection, SPC (Statistical Process Control), and end-of-line testing.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and other relevant quality standards.
• Inspection & Testing:
• Define and oversee inspection criteria for incoming materials (glass, interconnects, encapsulants) and finished products.
• Coordinate root cause analysis for non-conforming materials or processes using tools such as 5 Whys, Fishbone (Ishikawa), and FMEA.
• Use metrology tools (e.g., microscope, profilometer, solar simulator) to verify process integrity.
• Documentation & Reporting:
• Maintain accurate documentation for quality records, audits, deviations, and CAPAs (Corrective and Preventive Actions).
• Generate quality reports and dashboards to track KPIs such as yield, defect rates, and rework costs.
• Process Improvement:
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and engineering teams to optimize manufacturing processes and reduce variability.
• Lead or support Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing initiatives to improve product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
• Audits & Compliance:
• Participate in internal and external quality audits.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and product certification standards applicable to solar panel production.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 2-5 years of quality engineering experience in a high-tech manufacturing environment (solar, semiconductor, glass, or electronics preferred).
• Working knowledge of quality tools (SPC, DOE, FMEA, MSA).
• Familiarity with standards such as ISO 9001, IEC 61215/61730 for solar cells/modules.
• Experience with root cause analysis and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong analytical, communication, and documentation skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with optical inspection systems or laser processing quality control.
• Proficiency in using quality software such as Minitab, JMP, or similar.
• Green Belt or higher in Six Sigma is a plus.
• Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and ESD safety.

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.