Associate Flight Software Engineer
AST SpaceMobile
Software Engineering
Lanham, MD, USA
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 an Associate Software Engineer to join our Flight Software team. In this role, you will contribute to the development, integration, and testing of core software systems supporting satellite operations. You will work across embedded software development and Linux‑based system engineering, supporting both flight software and simulation environments that enable system validation and mission readiness.
This position is well‑suited for an early‑career engineer with strong fundamentals in embedded systems and an interest in space‑based platforms, who thrives in a collaborative and fast‑paced engineering environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and test embedded software components from initial concept through integration and deployment
- Support software development for mission‑critical systems, including integration with simulation and test environments
- Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to implement new features and enhancements across multiple subsystems
- Contribute to system‑level architecture discussions by reviewing interface documentation and technical specifications
- Participate in debugging, validation, and performance analysis of software across development and test stages
- Support integration, test, and verification activities throughout the software lifecycle
- Follow modern software development workflows, including version control, testing, and continuous integration
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
Experience
A minimum of 1–3 years of experience in software development, embedded systems, or related engineering roles (internships and academic project experience may count toward this requirement)
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with embedded development on microcontroller‑based systems
- Familiarity with real‑time operating systems (RTOS)
- Exposure to Linux system administration or Linux‑based development environments
- Experience supporting integration, test, or validation activities
- Familiarity with build systems and automation tools (e.g., CMake, Make, Ninja)
- Experience working with continuous integration tools or automated testing frameworks
Soft Skills
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clarify requirements and share technical updates
- Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in code, documentation, and deliverables
- Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills in complex technical environments
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic setting
Technology Stack
- Programming Languages: C, C++, Python
- Embedded Systems & RTOS environments
- Linux operating systems and command‑line tooling
- Version control and workflow tools (e.g., Git, issue tracking systems)
- Debugging and development tools (e.g., hardware debugging interfaces, test equipment)
- Software development lifecycle tools supporting testing and continuous integration
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in a standard office or lab environment and use a computer for extended periods
- Ability to participate in hands‑on development or test activities as needed
- May occasionally require work in lab or integration environments with standard engineering equipment
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.
