Harness Manufacturing and Production Technician
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 Harness Manufacturing and Production Technician who will be responsible for the assembly, integration, inspection, and testing of electrical harnesses, cable assemblies, and interconnects used in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite systems. This role requires high attention to detail, adherence to aerospace manufacturing standards, and hands-on expertise in wire preparation, harness fabrication, and quality verification in a cleanroom or controlled production environment. This position is located in Midland, TX. This is not a remote role.
Key Responsibilities:
- Harness Assembly & Fabrication
- Cut, strip, crimp, and terminate wires and cables to engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions.
- Build and route electrical harnesses and cable assemblies for LEO satellite subsystems.
- Perform precision soldering, splicing, and connector installation per aerospace specifications.
- Apply lacing, braiding, heat-shrink, and other harness protection methods.
- Installation & Integration
- Install harness assemblies onto satellite structures and subsystems.
- Route, dress, and secure harnesses while maintaining proper bend radius and strain relief.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve integration challenges.
- Testing & Inspection
- Perform electrical continuity and insulation resistance testing using tools such as CIRRIS testers, Hi-Pot testers, and multimeters.
- Conduct visual inspection per IPC/WHMA-A-620 and other aerospace standards.
- Document non-conformances and assist in root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Documentation & Process Control
- Interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and assembly instructions.
- Accurately complete production travelers, quality records, and test reports.
- Follow ESD, FOD, and cleanroom protocols to maintain a high-quality production environment.
Qualifications:
Education:
- High school diploma or technical certificate; associate degree preferred.
- IPC/WHMA-A-620 certification or equivalent aerospace wire harness training.
Experience:
- Experience in aerospace, defense, or satellite harness manufacturing.
- Proficiency in crimping, soldering, wire stripping, connector assembly, and cable harness dressing.
- Knowledge of electrical test equipment (CIRRIS, Hi-Pot, ohmmeters, multimeters).
- Familiarity with LEO satellite electrical systems and space-grade materials (Teflon wire, heat shrink, etc.).
- Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and ability to work with small components.
- Comfortable working in cleanroom and ESD-protected environments.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and schematics.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience in satellite or aerospace production environments.
- Familiarity with NASA and ESA workmanship standards (NASA-STD-8739 series).
- Experience with harness routing in tight satellite configurations.
- Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement mindset.
Soft Skills:
- Able to handle small parts and perform precise, repetitive tasks like soldering and crimping.
- Ability to see small details on drawings and inspect work (with or without glasses).
- Able to sit or stand for long periods.
- Able to move around the production area.
- Frequently reach, bend, kneel, and work in tight or awkward spaces.
- Lift and carry materials up to 40 lbs.
- Comfortable wearing required cleanroom gear (gown, mask, gloves) for an entire shift.
- Able to follow strict safety protocols for a controlled environment.
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.
