Payload Operations Engineer

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.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Payload Operations Engineer to operate AST satellite payload subsystems in support of constellation service and in-orbit testing. This is an onsite, day-staff shift position supporting the AST Satellite Operations Centers (SOCs) in Lanham, MD, with occasional weekend, holiday, and on-call support required to provide 24x7 payload operations. The role works closely with SOC, Network Operations Center (NOC), and subsystem engineers to maintain payload health and commercial service levels, and supports development of the automated tools used to operate the payload.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support development of payload operations tools required for efficient, automated payload tasks.
• Operate payload tools to create all configuration items required for payload in-orbit testing (IOT) and commercial service.
• Monitor service/test automation and analyze results through evaluation of telemetry and logs.
• Coordinate payload system configuration changes as required to maintain commercial service levels.
• Work with tool developers on functionality updates and payload software updates.
• Coordinate troubleshooting with SOC, Network Operations Center (NOC), and subsystem engineers to resolve service issues.
• Monitor and process payload subsystem telemetry data to maintain subsystem state of health, including power, thermal, and RF performance.
• Maintain situational awareness of satellite, payload, and ground configuration and status.
• Operate SOC operations software tools.
• Participate in daily shift handover briefings.
• Support mission product development, including procedure development, test, and validation.
• Support system readiness, planning, and preparation for satellite in-orbit milestones.
• Attend required training sessions, simulations, rehearsals, conferences, and program reviews.

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) field.

Experience:

2+ years of relevant experience; a Master's degree or additional experience is preferred. Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Card holder.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with satellite communication payloads.
• Multi-satellite LEO constellation experience.
• Demonstrated ability to drive requirements for concepts of operation.
• Familiarity with version control software, preferably Git.
• Familiarity with the Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence).
• Programming experience in at least one modern language such as Java, Python, Matlab, or C#.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in an environment with rapidly evolving system requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently.
• Technical understanding of satellite system architecture and subsystem functionality.
• High level of problem-solving capabilities.
• Familiarity with engineering analysis tools.

Technology Stack:

• SOC operations software tools.
• Payload automation and telemetry analysis tools.
• Engineering analysis tools.
• Version control systems (e.g., Git) and the Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence).
• Programming languages such as Python, Java, Matlab, or C#.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in an office and Satellite Operations Center (SOC) environment.
• Ability to participate in shift work, including occasional weekends, holidays, and on-call periods to support 24x7 operations.
• Ability to use a computer for extended periods.

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.