Senior Integration and Test Lead 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.

We are seeking a Senior Integration and Test Lead Engineer to lead AST Space Mobile’s Systems Integration, Test, and Operations group for defense programs. This role is responsible for overseeing RF, Radar, and SATCOM integration and test activities. It is a hands‑on leadership position managing a technical team conducting test planning, execution, and operations in lab and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) facilities. The ideal candidate will ensure robust test planning, configuration management, and process development while driving successful integration and system‑level testing in environments such as labs, anechoic chambers, and over‑the‑air (OTA) satellite testing.

• Lead and build the Systems Integration, Test, and Operations group.
• Develop, document, and execute comprehensive integration and test plans for space‑based RF and communications systems.
• Oversee hands‑on integration of hardware and software subsystems, troubleshooting issues at the interface and system level.
• Collaborate with hardware, software, and systems engineering teams to define interface requirements and resolve integration challenges.
• Coordinate with other functions to develop test methodologies and success criteria.
• Brief system test results to customers and AST leadership team.
• Plan and execute system‑level performance testing in lab, anechoic chamber, and OTA satellite environments.
• Analyze test data and translate results into clear reports, presentations, and recommendations for stakeholders.
• Develop automated test scripts and procedures to improve efficiency and coverage.
• Mentor junior engineers on integration and test best practices, tools, and procedures.
• Support system verification, validation, and customer acceptance testing activities.

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field; master’s degree preferred.

A minimum of 10+ years of leadership experience in systems integration and test, with a proven track record in RF, SATCOM, radar, or wireless systems.

• Familiarity with phased array technologies and satellite communications.
• Active U.S. Security Clearance highly preferred.

• Strong leadership and team‑building capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and customer briefings.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross‑functional teams.
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of all documentation and deliverables.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills for troubleshooting complex systems.

• Test equipment and software tools: MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW.
• Familiarity with RF test instruments and automated test frameworks.

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to work in lab and test environments, including anechoic chambers and OTA test sites.
• Occasional travel may be required for system‑level testing and customer support.

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.