Quality Inspector II, 1st Shift, Site 2

AST SpaceMobile 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.

This position is based in our satellite production facility in Midland, TX, with full relocation provided (details below).

AST is seeking an experienced Quality Inspector II – Composites Integration to support the inspection and verification of advanced composite structures, integrated assemblies, and avionics-related hardware used in satellite manufacturing. This is a hands-on role for a highly skilled inspector who can independently evaluate aerospace-grade composite assemblies, identify nonconformances, and ensure hardware meets engineering, manufacturing, and quality requirements throughout the integration process.

Position Overview:

The Quality Inspector II – Composites Integration performs advanced in-process and final inspections of composite structures, bonded assemblies, mechanical integrations, and avionics-related hardware used in satellite production. This position works closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Production Control, and Quality Engineering teams to ensure compliance with drawings, specifications, work instructions, and aerospace quality standards.

The ideal candidate will have experience in aerospace manufacturing, aircraft structures, composites fabrication, satellite integration, or avionics quality inspection environments.

Compensation & Schedule

Pay: DOE, Additional shift differentials apply for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th shifts.

Shift Schedules

• 1st Shift – Days: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (4x10 schedule) with paid lunch and breaks (Need 3 QA Inspector)
• 2nd Shift – Nights: Monday–Thursday, 6:00 p.m.–4:00 a.m. (4x10 schedule) with a 10% shift differential and paid lunch and breaks (Need 3 QA Inspector)
• 3rd Shift – Weekends: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (3x12 schedule) with a 20% shift differential and paid lunch and breaks (Need 3 QA Inspector)
• 4th Shift – Weekends: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 pm.– 6:00 a.m. (3x12 schedule) with a 22% shift differential and paid lunch and breaks (Need 3 QA Inspector)
• Flexibility: Night and weekend shifts may be available with shift differential pay depending on business needs.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Perform detailed in-process inspections of composite structures, bonded assemblies, satellite hardware, avionics components, and mechanical integrations.
• Verify compliance to engineering drawings, 3D models, specifications, manufacturing travelers, work instructions, and inspection plans.
• Inspect composite layups, cured components, bonded joints, inserts, fastener installations, and structural assemblies for dimensional and visual conformance.
• Conduct receiving, in-process, First Article Inspection (FAI), and final acceptance inspections.
• Review manufacturing documentation, inspection records, certifications, and supplier quality records for completeness and accuracy.
• Utilize precision measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, pin gauges, and specialty inspection tools.
• Verify proper use and calibration status of measurement and inspection equipment.
• Identify, document, and process nonconforming material reports (NCMRs) and quality discrepancies.
• Support root cause investigations and corrective action activities related to product nonconformances.
• Perform inspections in accordance with AS9100 quality requirements and company procedures.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineers, Quality Engineers, Integration Technicians, and Production teams to resolve quality issues.
• Maintain accurate records and inspection documentation within electronic and manual quality systems.
• Ensure compliance with ESD, contamination control, foreign object debris (FOD), and product protection requirements.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on product quality, process efficiency, and defect prevention

What You Bring:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Minimum 4 years of quality inspection experience in aerospace, composites manufacturing, aviation, defense, satellite integration, spacecraft manufacturing, or a related high-reliability industry.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, specifications, and manufacturing documentation.
• Experience inspecting composite and mechanical assemblies.
• Strong understanding of inspection methodologies and nonconformance reporting processes.
• Proficiency with precision measurement and inspection equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5+ years of aerospace quality inspection experience.
• Experience with aerospace composites, carbon fiber structures, bonded assemblies, and structural integration.
• Experience supporting satellite, spacecraft, aircraft, or defense manufacturing programs.
• Knowledge of AS9100 quality management systems.
• Familiarity with IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, or avionics inspection standards.
• Experience performing First Article Inspections per AS9102.
• Working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Aviation Maintenance, or related technical discipline.
• Experience using ERP, MES, SAP, or electronic quality management systems.
• Certification as Quality Inspector (CQI), CQA, or equivalent quality credential.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced understanding of aerospace manufacturing and inspection requirements.
• Ability to evaluate complex composite and integrated assemblies for conformance.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to communicate quality concerns clearly and professionally.
• Excellent organizational skills and documentation practices.
• Ability to support multiple priorities in a fast-paced production environment.
• Strong understanding of workmanship standards and aerospace quality expectations.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to stand, walk, and perform inspections for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, kneel, reach, climb, and work around production hardware and tooling.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work around large structures and integrated satellite assemblies.
• Ability to perform detailed visual inspections, including close-up and color differentiation tasks.
• Ability to work in environments where exposure to composite materials, carbon fiber dust, adhesives, solvents, and manufacturing equipment may occur.
• Must comply with PPE, ESD, contamination-control, and FOD-prevention requirements.

Ideal Candidate Background

• We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in:
• Aerospace Manufacturing
• Composite Structures Inspection
• Aircraft Assembly & Structures
• Satellite/Spacecraft Integration
• Avionics Manufacturing
• Defense Manufacturing
• Helicopter or Fixed-Wing Aircraft Production
• FAA Repair Stations
• Military Aviation Maintenance
• Carbon Fiber and Advanced Materials Inspection

Benefits: (Eligibility dependent)

• Medical, dental, vision
• 401(k) (pre-tax & Roth)
• Life insurance, disability coverage
• HSA, FSA benefits are optional
• Employee Assistance Program
• PTO / sick leave

Relocation Support (If You Accept)

• Up to $5,000 in temporary housing (first 3 months)
• $1,050/month stipend to support living arrangements after 1st working month on an ongoing basis

If you are open to relocating to Midland, this is an opportunity to enter the growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing industry while building valuable long-term career skills. AST SpaceMobile provides hands-on training and career growth opportunities within one of the most innovative satellite manufacturing programs in the country.

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 SpaceMobile 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.