Environmental Test 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.
Job Summary:
The Environmental Test Engineer (Vibration and TVAC) is responsible for planning, executing, and documenting mechanical and thermal-vacuum tests to verify the environmental durability of spacecraft components, subsystems, and full systems. This engineer ensures test campaigns meet customer and program requirements for qualification and acceptance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute test plans and procedures for vibration (sine, random, shock) and thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing.
- Set up, calibrate, and operate test equipment including shakers, thermal chambers, vacuum chambers, and data acquisition systems.
- Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and systems engineering teams to define environmental test requirements.
- Perform real-time test monitoring and troubleshooting to ensure successful completion of test campaigns.
- Ensure all testing complies with relevant standards (e.g., MIL-STD-1540, NASA GEVS, ECSS).
- Coordinate with technicians to configure test setups, instrumentation, and test article fixturing.
- Lead or support root cause investigations for test anomalies or failures.
- Generate detailed test reports including data analysis, plots, and pass/fail criteria.
- Maintain equipment and ensure test facilities meet operational readiness.
- Participate in continuous improvement activities to enhance test efficiency, safety, and reliability.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
- 3+ years of experience in environmental testing, preferably in aerospace or defense.
- Hands-on experience with electrodynamic shakers, TVAC chambers, accelerometers, thermal sensors, and DAQ systems.
- Strong knowledge of vibration and thermal environments relevant to spaceflight hardware.
- Familiarity with instrumentation setup, calibration, and data analysis.
- Ability to work in cleanroom environments and follow contamination control procedures.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with software such as LabVIEW, TestStand, MATLAB, or Python for test automation and data analysis.
- Experience supporting launch vehicle or satellite environmental qualification campaigns.
- Knowledge of industry standards: MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-1540, ECSS-E-ST-10-03C, etc.
- Familiarity with thermal modeling and simulation tools.
Working Conditions:
- May involve shift work and extended hours during test campaigns.
- Physical requirements may include lifting up to 50 lbs and working in confined or high-vacuum areas.
- Must be able to work in a fast-paced and collaborative environment with strict deadlines.
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.
