Senior RF Testing and Integration Engineer
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 Senior RF Integration & Test Engineer will own the complete testing lifecycle for satellite TT&C and GNSS subsystems. This role operates across both the RF development laboratory and the spacecraft integration cleanroom, defining and executing RF test campaigns from early technology validation through flight hardware integration and environmental qualification.
The engineer will validate satellite test procedures, develop and verify automated test software, and execute test campaigns that ensure spacecraft RF systems perform reliably from the factory floor to orbit. This position plays a critical role in ensuring ground system compatibility and supporting mission success through In-Orbit Testing (IOT) and satellite commissioning.
Key Responsibilities
- Define, author, and execute detailed RF test procedures supporting spacecraft development, integration, and production.
- Validate satellite-level test procedures and automated scripts within the RF development lab prior to execution on flight hardware in the cleanroom.
- Lead end-to-end “test as you fly” ground compatibility testing to ensure seamless RF communication between spacecraft radios and TT&C ground stations.
- Support the development and validation of system CONOPS and mission use cases through flatsat testing and integrated RF system validation.
- Provide mission support during satellite commissioning by leading RF data analysis during In-Orbit Testing (IOT).
- Plan and execute RF testing during environmental qualification and acceptance test campaigns including thermal vacuum (TVAC), vibration, and EMI/EMC testing.
- Perform advanced RF characterization measurements including EIRP, G/T, phase noise, group delay, P1dB, and passive intermodulation.
- Operate and maintain RF metrology equipment including vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and power meters.
- Oversee operation, calibration, and architectural evolution of RF Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE).
- Act as the primary on-site troubleshooting authority for automated RF test systems and related infrastructure.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical field.
Experience
- Minimum of 5+ years of hands-on experience in RF subsystem testing and validation within aerospace, defense, or satellite manufacturing environments.
- Proven experience executing ground station compatibility testing and supporting satellite In-Orbit Testing (IOT) operations.
- Experience validating software CONOPS and system-level RF use cases for satellite payloads, TT&C systems, or transponders.
- Strong operational knowledge of RF metrology equipment including vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, power meters, and signal generators.
- Demonstrated experience executing RF test campaigns involving thermal vacuum (TVAC), vibration testing, and EMI/EMC chambers.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with satellite TT&C architectures and RF communications subsystems.
- Familiarity with automated RF test scripting environments including Python-based frameworks or SCPI command interfaces.
- Experience working with integrated spacecraft flatsat test environments.
- Experience supporting spacecraft production test operations or RF payload integration activities.
Soft Skills
- Adaptability and resilience in fast-paced engineering environments.
- Strong analytical and proactive problem-solving abilities.
- Clear and effective communication across engineering, production, and integration teams.
- Highly collaborative and mission-focused mindset.
- Strong ownership mentality with the ability to drive complex testing programs.
Technology Stack
- Programming & Analysis: MATLAB, Python
- Platforms & Infrastructure: Linux, Docker
- Productivity Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods while performing test activities and maneuver around large RF test fixtures and spacecraft hardware.
- Ability to work in a cleanroom environment under strict ESD and FOD control protocols.
- Ability to lift and move equipment up to 25 pounds as needed for test setup and integration activities.
- Position is based at the Midland, Texas facility and requires on-site collaboration with engineering and spacecraft integration teams.
- Occasional domestic and international travel may be required to support mission milestones, vendor integration activities, and spacecraft testing operations.
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.