Engineering Development Program; EDP - Environmental Test

Position: Engineering Development Program (EDP) - Environmental Test
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

The Engineering Development Program (EDP) is designed for exceptional recent graduates who want to become spacecraft engineers by first learning how satellites are physically built.

Participants in this program will begin their careers working directly on the spacecraft production floor as Engineering Technicians supporting Environmental Test Operations. In this role, participants will gain hands-on experience integrating and testing subsystems and satellites to qualify and validate AST Space Mobile satellites.

As participants demonstrate technical capability and leadership potential, they will progress through a structured development path:

Engineering Technician → Engineering Technician Supervisor → Associate Engineer

This program provides a rare opportunity to develop engineers who understand spacecraft hardware from the ground up-combining hands-on spacecraft assembly experience, early leadership development, and a clear transition into an engineering role.

Participants will gain direct experience testing flight hardware, leading technical teams, and supporting spacecraft production at scale.

Key Responsibilities

Phase 1 - Engineering Technician

Participants begin the program working directly with spacecraft hardware supporting environmental test which includes Thermal Vacuum (TVAC), Vibration, Shock and Acoustics.

Responsibilities include:

* Perform Thermal Vacuum (TVAC) testing, including chamber setup, instrumentation routing, leak checks, pump-down operations, and test monitoring.

* Operate vibration test systems (sine, random, shock) including fixture setup, software configuration, and accelerometer instrumentation.

* Conduct environmental screening on subassemblies (thermal cycling, burn-in, thermal balance, etc.).

* Install, route, and verify test instrumentation including thermocouples, accelerometers, etc.

* Validate data acquisition system (DAS) configuration and ensure accurate sensor readings.

* Document test results, anomalies, and configuration changes in accordance with engineering and quality standards.

* Support lifting, securing, and fixturing flight hardware using cranes, overhead hoists, and support equipment.

* Assist engineers in writing, reviewing, and updating test procedures and work instructions

This phase focuses on developing a deep understanding of environmental test and proper flight hardware handling.

Phase 2 - Engineering Technician Supervisor

After demonstrating strong technical performance and leadership capability, participants will transition into a supervisory role supporting solar array production operations.

Responsibilities include:

* Lead Environmental Test Operations:
Oversee daily activities including thermal-vacuum, vibration, shock, acoustic, and related tests

* Plan and Prioritize Work:
Develop schedules, assign tasks, and adapt plans to meet shifting priorities and deadlines

* Develop and Maintain Documentation:
Author, update, and train staff on test procedures, SOPs, and quality/process documentation

* Monitor and Report Metrics:
Track staffing levels, throughput, and resource utilization; prepare performance reports for leadership

* Troubleshoot and Resolve Issues:
Investigate test failures and non-conformances; perform root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions

* Ensure Compliance:
Enforce health, safety, and environmental regulations across all operations

* Mentor and Develop Team:
Provide training, performance feedback, and support hiring efforts to grow team capabilities

* Collaborate Cross-Functionally:
Interface with design, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and facilities teams; promote cross-training initiatives

* Provide Hands-On Support:
Assist with environmental…