Software Test 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 Software Test Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software systems that support satellite development, ground systems, and operational infrastructure. This role applies strong engineering and analytical principles to create reliable, scalable, and high-performance software solutions used in mission-critical aerospace systems.
Working closely with cross-functional teams including electrical, RF, avionics, and systems engineering, the Software Engineer contributes to the development of software that supports spacecraft development, testing, and operations. This role requires strong programming fundamentals, a systems-level mindset, and the ability to solve complex technical problems in a fast-paced engineering environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, test, and maintain software applications supporting spacecraft systems, ground infrastructure, and engineering tools.
- Analyze system requirements and user needs to design software solutions that meet performance, reliability, and operational objectives.
- Develop modular, maintainable software components that integrate effectively within larger system architectures.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to support system integration, testing, and operational readiness.
- Troubleshoot, debug, and resolve software issues identified during development, testing, or operational use.
- Contribute to system architecture discussions and recommend improvements to existing software and system designs.
- Develop technical documentation including software design descriptions, diagrams, flowcharts, and development artifacts.
- Support software verification and validation activities including unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing.
- Maintain and improve existing software systems through updates, bug fixes, and performance optimizations.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, or a related technical field required.
Experience
- 1+ years of professional experience in software development or related engineering work.
- Experience designing, developing, and testing software applications in a collaborative engineering environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience developing software for aerospace, satellite, or other high-reliability engineering systems.
- Familiarity with distributed systems, telemetry systems, or data processing pipelines.
- Experience working in Linux development environments.
- Exposure to hardware integration, embedded systems, or real-time software environments.
Soft Skills
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to translate requirements into technical solutions.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly explain technical concepts to cross-functional teams.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative engineering environment.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and development priorities.
Technology Stack
- Programming Languages: Python, Ruby, C#, or similar modern programming languages
- Development Tools: Version control systems (e.g., Git) and collaborative development platforms
- Operating Systems: Linux-based development environments
- Software Development Practices: Unit testing, debugging, and documentation tools
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit and work at a computer workstation for extended periods.
- Ability to occasionally move equipment or materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
Additional Notes:
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties or responsibilities. Additional tasks may be assigned as required to support business operations and mission objectives.
Employment eligibility may require compliance with U.S. export control regulations. Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or otherwise authorized to work in the United States.
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.