Payload Operations 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 Payload Operations Engineer responsible for operating AST satellite payload subsystems to support constellation service and in-orbit testing. This is primarily a day-staff shift position at the AST Satellite Operations Centers (SOCs), with occasional weekend, holiday, and on-call support to provide 24x7 payload operations.
Key Responsibilities
Payload Operations & Monitoring
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Operate payload tools to create configuration items required for in-orbit testing (IOT) and commercial service.
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Monitor service/test automation and analyze results through telemetry and log evaluation.
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Coordinate payload system configuration changes to maintain commercial service levels.
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Monitor and process payload subsystem telemetry data to ensure subsystem health, including power, thermal, and RF performance.
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Maintain situational awareness of satellite, payload, and ground configuration and status.
Tool & Software Support
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Support development of payload operations tools for efficient automated tasks.
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Work with tool developers for functionality updates and payload software updates.
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Operate SOC operations software tools.
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Support development of automated operations tools.
Coordination & Troubleshooting
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Coordinate troubleshooting with SOC, Network Operations Center (NOC), and subsystem engineers to resolve service issues.
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Participate in daily shift handover briefings.
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Support mission product development including procedure development, testing, and validation.
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Support system readiness, planning, and preparation for satellite in-orbit milestones.
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Attend required training sessions, simulations, rehearsals, conferences, and program reviews.
Qualifications
Education:
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Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM field).
Experience:
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A minimum of 0–2 years (or equivalent experience); Master’s degree or additional experience preferred.
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Technical understanding of satellite system architecture and subsystem functionality.
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Demonstrated ability to work independently in an evolving system environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
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Experience working with satellite communication payloads.
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Multi-satellite LEO constellation experience.
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Demonstrated ability to drive requirements for concepts of operation.
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Familiarity with version control software (preferably Git) and Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence).
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Programming experience in at least one modern language such as Java, Python, Matlab, or C#.
Soft Skills:
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Excellent oral and written communication skills.
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High level of problem-solving capabilities.
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Ability to adapt to rapidly evolving system requirements.
Technology Stack:
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SOC operations software tools.
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Payload automation and telemetry analysis tools.
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Engineering analysis tools, version control systems, programming languages (Python, Java, Matlab, C#).
Physical Requirements:
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Ability to work in an office and SOC environment.
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Legally able to work in Spain.
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Ability to participate in shift work, including occasional weekends, holidays, and on-call periods.
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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.
