Intern - Solar Panel Electrical and Power Systems Engineering
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
The Solar Panel Electrical and Power Systems Engineering Intern will support the design, fabrication, and production of photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays used in satellite and aerospace applications. This role provides hands-on exposure to flight hardware manufacturing, supporting engineers and technicians with process development, panel assembly, and production optimization. The intern will contribute to improving the reliability, efficiency, and manufacturability of space-rated solar array systems that power mission-critical spacecraft.
This internship is from 5/18/2026 to 8/7/2026 on-site at our Midland, TX facility. You must be enrolled in the following semester. If you just graduated, please apply to one of our full-time roles.
Key Responsibilities
Solar Panel Design & Fabrication Support
- Assist with design and fabrication activities for photovoltaic solar arrays and panel assemblies.
- Support solar cell tabbing, stringing, interconnection, and final panel assembly operations.
- Participate in hardware build, inspection, and integration of solar array components.
- Assist with troubleshooting and resolving assembly or performance issues.
Manufacturing Process Development
- Support development and optimization of manufacturing processes for solar array production.
- Help create and update work instructions, process documentation, and build procedures.
- Assist with process flow development, cycle time tracking, and production efficiency improvements.
- Identify opportunities to improve yield, repeatability, and quality.
Testing & Validation
- Support functional and electrical testing of solar cells, strings, and panels.
- Collect and analyze test data to verify performance against specifications.
- Assist with documenting results and supporting qualification or acceptance activities.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with manufacturing, quality, and design engineering teams to support integration and production goals.
- Provide general lab and production floor support where needed.
- Communicate technical findings and progress to stakeholders.
Qualifications
Education
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline.
Experience
- Academic or hands-on experience with laboratory testing, fabrication, or manufacturing environments.
- Basic understanding of electrical and/or mechanical systems.
- Interest in aerospace hardware or space systems manufacturing.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of solar cell electrical characteristics and photovoltaic system fundamentals.
- Familiarity with handling and assembly of sensitive or space-rated components.
- Exposure to manufacturing processes or process improvement concepts.
- Experience with CAD tools (SolidWorks or similar).
- Participation in engineering projects, labs, or student design teams.
Soft Skills
- Strong attention to detail and quality mindset.
- Willingness to work hands-on with hardware and production equipment.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
- Self-motivated with strong problem-solving ability.
- Ability to follow procedures in controlled manufacturing environments.
Technology Stack
- CAD: SolidWorks or similar
- Test Equipment: Multimeters, power supplies, and electrical test tools
- Documentation: Microsoft Office or equivalent
- Manufacturing process and quality tools
Physical Requirements
- Frequent work on the production floor and in lab environments.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and perform hands-on assembly tasks.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to work with small, delicate components in controlled or cleanroom environments.
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.