Senior Principal Systems Validation Engineer
AST SpaceMobile
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 Senior Principal Systems Validation Engineer to lead the validation of hardware and software features for our space-based RF and communications systems. This role ensures that our systems perform reliably in controlled environments such as labs and anechoic chambers, as well as during over-the-air (OTA) satellite testing. The ideal candidate will serve as a technical leader, developing test strategies, executing hands-on validations, and collaborating with remote teams to verify system performance against mission-critical requirements. This role is hybrid 3 days on site at Lanham.MD location / 2 days virtual. Within 6 to 9 months position will relocate to Tysons Corner, VA.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute comprehensive validation plans for HW and SW features, including signal processing, beamforming, and communications protocols in the lab, anechoic chamber, and OTA satellite environments.
- Lead hands-on testing and troubleshooting to verify system performance, integration, and compliance with requirements for phased array, RF, and SATCOM systems.
- Collaborate with remote engineering teams to review and refine validation deliverables, identifying issues and providing expert feedback to ensure alignment with defense and commercial goals.
- Conduct OTA validations from satellites, analyzing performance metrics such as link budgets, interference, and signal quality in real-world scenarios.
- Serve as a technical gatekeeper, performing system verification and validation, including proof-of-concept evaluations, and supporting customer acceptance testing.
- Translate complex validation results into clear reports and presentations for customers, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams.
- Mentor junior engineers on validation methodologies, test procedures, and tools for HW/SW integration in space-based applications.
- Support proposal pursuits, RFI/RFP responses, and trade studies related to validation for defense programs.
Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
Experience:
- A minimum of 10 years in validation engineering or systems integration and test.
- Proven track record at a principal or senior principal level in RF, SATCOM, or wireless systems.
- Deep expertise in HW and SW validation, including lab/anechoic chamber testing, OTA satellite validation, and tools like MATLAB, Python, or test equipment suites.
- Strong background in cellular technologies (e.g., 5G NR, LTE, UMTS) and/or RF systems, with experience in signal processing, interference analysis, and performance metrics.
- Proven ability to technically lead distributed teams in verification, validation, and troubleshooting for complex systems.
- Familiarity with phased array technologies, satellite communications, and DoD regulations (e.g., RMF, STIG, FAR/DFARS, ITAR).
- Exceptional communication skills, with experience in customer-facing roles, technical reporting, and cross-functional leadership
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s or Ph.D. preferred.
- Active US Security Clearance is highly preferred.
Soft Skills:
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of all documentation and project deliverables.
- Ability to lead technical discussions and mentor junior engineers.
Technology Stack:
- MATLAB, Python, and other scripting tools
- RF test equipment suites (e.g., spectrum analyzers, signal generators)
- Satellite communications systems and phased array platforms
- Validation and simulation tools for HW/SW integration
- Cellular protocol analyzers and performance monitoring tools
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
- Ability to perform hands-on testing in lab and chamber environments.
- Occasional travel to customer sites or test ranges may be 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.
