NDT - Level III

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

Position Overview

Technical authority for ultrasonic NDT of aerospace composite structures. Defines and validates inspection methods, ensures traceable results, and advises engineering on defect severity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Write, review and approve the written NDT procedures and instructions that Level II personnel execute, as required of Level III by EN 4179 / NAS 410. These cover equipment setup, calibration on reference blocks, scanning parameters, and the recording and rejection levels (for example, signal amplitude thresholds relative to the reference standard) used to identify defects, derived from the applicable engineering specifications and acceptance criteria.
• Evaluate and interpret inspection results (A/B/C-scan) against engineering specifications and acceptance criteria. Review the work of Level I/II inspectors and resolve doubtful or non-conclusive indications.
• Define equipment configuration and calibration processes for PE (Pulse-Echo), TT (Through-Transmission) and PEAUT (automated pulse-echo) systems, including periodic verification and calibration acceptance criteria.
• Define reporting standards that ensure full defect traceability (part ID, procedure revision, equipment and calibration records, defect maps with coordinates and sizing) for downstream engineering collaboration.
• Define reference blocks for the different part types (monolithic laminates, sandwich/honeycomb, tapered areas, radii, joints), including artificial defects and manufacturing controls.
• Advise engineering on defect severity (size, depth, location, criticality), communicating technique limitations and uncertainty to support disposition decisions.

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline preferred.

Certification:

• Current NDT Level III UT certification (EN 4179 / NAS 410 or equivalent).

Experience:

• Aerospace background (essential).
• Composites experience (essential): CFRP laminates, sandwich structures, and their defect and damage mechanisms.
• Hands-on experience with PE, TT and automated C-scan systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, repair, or production environments.
• Familiarity with automated inspection systems and advanced ultrasonic technologies.
• Experience working with international aerospace quality and regulatory standards.
• Exposure to defect disposition and engineering review processes.
• Experience training and mentoring Level I and Level II NDT inspectors.

Soft Skills:

• Strong technical communication and documentation skills.
• Technical English.
• Availability to travel (USA – EU – INDIA)

Technology Stack:

• UT Inspection Equipment (PE, TT, PEAUT, C-Scan)
• NDT Analysis & Reporting Software
• Engineering Documentation Tools
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Quality Management Systems

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to handle and operate NDT inspection equipment safely.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.

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.