AST SpaceMobile · 1 day ago
Launch Operations Mechanical Engineer Lead
Cape Canaveral, FL
Full-time
Onsite
Lead/Staff
8+ years expAST SpaceMobile is building the first global cellular broadband network in space, and they are seeking a Launch Operations Mechanical Engineer Lead to oversee mechanical integration activities at the launch site. This role involves providing technical authority, ensuring mechanical readiness, and coordinating with various teams for successful launch operations.
Telecom & CommunicationsAerospaceInformation TechnologySatellite CommunicationTelecommunications
Responsibilities
Lead and own mechanical integration efforts at the launch site, ensuring satellites and launch adapters are flight-ready and fully certified for launch
Define and execute the mechanical integration strategy, sequencing, and risk mitigation throughout launch campaigns
Lead the design, qualification, and deployment of Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE)
Serve as the primary technical authority for mechanical issues during integration, testing, and launch operations
Coordinate mechanical activities with systems engineering, integration teams, test operations, launch vehicle providers, and range operations
Review and approve mechanical procedures, work instructions, and non-conformance dispositions
Provide technical mentorship, guidance, and task leadership to mechanical engineers and technicians
Drive continuous improvement across mechanical processes, tooling, and launch site operational workflows
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering
A minimum of 8 years of experience in the aerospace industry or a comparable high‑reliability manufacturing environment
Demonstrated ownership of hardware or subsystem integration from design through launch
Advanced background in mechanical engineering with extensive aerospace hardware integration and MGSE experience
Demonstrated experience as a technical or subsystem lead in launch base or cleanroom environments
High proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., Inventor (preferred), CREO, SolidWorks, Catia)
Deep understanding of aerospace mechanical standards, safety protocols, and configuration control
Lead and own mechanical integration efforts at the launch site, ensuring satellites and launch adapters are flight-ready and fully certified for launch
Define and execute the mechanical integration strategy, sequencing, and risk mitigation throughout launch campaigns
Lead the design, qualification, and deployment of Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE)
Serve as the primary technical authority for mechanical issues during integration, testing, and launch operations
Coordinate mechanical activities with systems engineering, integration teams, test operations, launch vehicle providers, and range operations
Review and approve mechanical procedures, work instructions, and non-conformance dispositions
Provide technical mentorship, guidance, and task leadership to mechanical engineers and technicians
Drive continuous improvement across mechanical processes, tooling, and launch site operational workflows
Strong technical leadership and confident decision‑making capability
Excellent cross‑functional communication and stakeholder management skills
High attention to detail with strong ownership, accountability, and follow‑through
Ability to lead effectively during critical or time‑sensitive operations
Hands-on work with flight hardware, test setups, and precision instruments
Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs
Availability for extended or irregular shifts during launch campaigns
Preferred
Prior experience serving as a lead or responsible engineer during a full launch campaign
Advanced proficiency in GD&T and precision interface management
Experience working directly with launch vehicle providers and external partners
Experience leading small teams or directing cross‑functional integration efforts
CAD Tools: AutoDesk Inventor (preferred), SolidWorks, NX, Creo
Analysis Tools: Finite Element Analysis (FEA) experience preferred
Data/Documentation Systems: Fusion or equivalent PDM/PLM tools
General Tools: Microsoft Office Suite
Company
AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile is a space-based broadband cellular network company for unmodified mobile devices.
501-1000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
AST SpaceMobile has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (8)
2023 (2)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$4.92BKey Investors
Trinity CapitalAtlas Credit PartnersRakuten,Vodafone
2026-02-12Post Ipo Debt· $1B
2025-10-22Post Ipo Equity· $157.22M
2025-10-21Post Ipo Debt· $1.15B
Leadership Team
Shanti Gupta
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Andrew Johnson
Member Board of Directors
Recent News
Sherwood News
2026-02-13
2026-02-13
Company data provided by crunchbase