RAN Systems 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 RAN System Engineer to participate in definition, integration, optimization, and product roadmap execution of LTE/5G radio systems across our global satellite-ground infrastructure—the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard mobile phones.

• Ensure robust operation of terrestrial RAN features—such as scheduling, MIMO, mobility, and interference coordination—when deployed over AST's space-based infrastructure via standard CPRI/eCPRI interfaces.
• Own cell- and network-level performance modeling, including:
  • Spectral efficiency
  • Cell density and reuse strategies
  • Beam transitions and UE tracking
  • Interference prediction and mitigation
  • Scaled ground GW operation
• Drive feature provisioning end-to-end—from requirements definition and vendor engagement through integration, validation, and controlled enablement across the network—ensuring new capabilities are introduced reliably and without degrading existing performance.
• Manage customer and partner expectations by translating complex system constraints and development timelines into clear, honest, and actionable communications; serve as the primary technical point of contact for feature-related inquiries from operators, partners, and key stakeholders.
• Collaborate with system integration, DSP, RF, and core network teams to align baseband behavior with AST's product goals.
• Define test strategies and validation plans that ensure system-wide performance across the satellite, ground, and RAN layers.
• Serve as a key technical interface to RAN vendors and partners, participating in debugging, integration workshops, and roadmap alignment.
• Lead end-to-end RAN performance optimization by analyzing and tuning eNB/gNB behavior to maximize cell throughput (TpT), coverage, reliability, and interference efficiency.

• BSc or MSc in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering, or related field from a recognized institution.
• Relevant certifications in cellular systems or wireless communications (e.g., 3
  
  GPP, LTE/5G) are a plus.

• A minimum of 5 years in cellular system engineering, RAN performance, or architecture roles (including vendor-side experience).
• Proven experience in real cellular network deployment and optimization (lab and field).
• Expertise in 3
  
  GPP specifications for 4G and 5G, with hands‑on interpretation and application to system design.
• Demonstrated experience owning or co‑owning a technical product roadmap, including prioritization under uncertainty and communication of trade‑offs to non-engineering stakeholders.

• Experience with non-terrestrial networks (NTN) or space-ground hybrid architecture.
• Hands‑on background with beamforming systems, antenna arrays, and RF front-end constraints.
• Familiarity with traffic modeling, scheduler design, and spectral efficiency optimization at scale.
• Experience working with RAN vendors (e.g., integration, debugging, feature enablement).
• Knowledge of fronthaul protocols (CPRI/eCPRI) and transport considerations in constrained or high-latency environments.
• Background in predictive modeling, data science, or simulation frameworks for network planning.
• Exposure to O‑RAN architectures and vendor interoperability.
• Experience interfacing directly with MNO customers or enterprise partners on capability delivery, timeline commitments, or technical pre‑sales engagements.

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to lead cross‑functional technical discussions (DSP, RF, Systems, Core).
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within distributed, multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to…