Intern - MOPS Software Development
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 motivated and technically skilled MOPS Software Development Intern to support development, automation, and software validation activities within the Mission Operations (MOPS) team.
The intern will contribute to automated testing, CI/CD pipeline enhancements, documentation of current and historical automation products, and forward‑looking infrastructure design efforts. This role is ideal for a junior‑level Computer Science or Aerospace Engineering student with strong coding skills—particularly in Python.
This is a 14-week internship beginning 05/18/2026 at our Lanham, MD location. To be considered for the internship you must be enrolled in the following semester. If you are a recent graduate, please apply to one of our full-time roles.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop automated code test coverage for:
- Automated Procedure Scripts
- Ground Automation Tasks
- Mission Operations Tools
- Perform retrofit work to modernize historical vehicle automation to current tool design standards
- Implement advanced CI/CD pipelines and assist in adopting modern DevOps practices
- Generate comprehensive, organized documentation for both current and legacy codebases
- Support senior engineers in designing future-facing automation and infrastructure (3-, 6-, and 12‑month horizons)
- Conduct design studies for advanced monitoring capabilities
- Contribute to design document development
- Collaborate with cross-functional software and operations teams to support automation enhancements and software validation activities
Qualifications
Education:
Pursuing a degree in Computer Science or Aerospace Engineering (with strong coding experience required)
Experience:
- Strong Python programming skills
- Experience with additional programming languages is beneficial
- Junior‑level academic experience preferred
Preferred Qualifications:
- Junior in college preferred; strong sophomores will also be considered
- Strong proficiency in Python
- Experience with C++ or multi‑language coding environments
- Familiarity with CI/CD tools and DevOps workflows
- Exposure to automated testing frameworks or software validation practices
- Ability to understand and modernize legacy codebases
Soft Skills:
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
- Ability to work effectively within cross‑functional teams
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Meticulous attention to detail for documentation and code quality
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Ability to learn new technologies, tools, and development practices quickly
Technology Stack:
- Python (required)
- C++ (preferred)
- CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitHub/GitLab CI)
- Git version control
- Automated testing frameworks
- Documentation tools (Markdown, Confluence, or similar)
- Additional tooling related to satellite operations automation and ground systems
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work in a standard office or hybrid environment
- Ability to use a computer for extended periods
- Ability to participate in virtual or in‑person meetings and technical discussions
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.
