Engineering Development Program (EDP) – Environmental Test

Position Overview

The Engineering Development Program (EDP) is designed for exceptional recent graduates who want to become spacecraft engineers by first learning how satellites are physically built.

Participants in this program will begin their careers working directly on the spacecraft production floor as Engineering Technicians supporting Environmental Test Operations. In this role, participants will gain hands-on experience integrating and testing subsystems and satellites to qualify and validate AST SpaceMobile satellites.

As participants demonstrate technical capability and leadership potential, they will progress through a structured development path:

Engineering Technician → Engineering Technician Supervisor → Associate Engineer

This program provides a rare opportunity to develop engineers who understand spacecraft hardware from the ground up—combining hands-on spacecraft assembly experience, early leadership development, and a clear transition into an engineering role.

Participants will gain direct experience testing flight hardware, leading technical teams, and supporting spacecraft production at scale.

Key Responsibilities

Phase 1 – Engineering Technician

Participants begin the program working directly with spacecraft hardware supporting environmental test which includes Thermal Vacuum (TVAC), Vibration, Shock and Acoustics.

Responsibilities include:

• Perform Thermal Vacuum (TVAC) testing, including chamber setup, instrumentation routing, leak checks, pump-down operations, and test monitoring.
• Operate vibration test systems (sine, random, shock) including fixture setup, software configuration, and accelerometer instrumentation.
• Conduct environmental screening on subassemblies (thermal cycling, burn-in, thermal balance, etc.).
• Install, route, and verify test instrumentation including thermocouples, accelerometers, etc.
• Validate data acquisition system (DAS) configuration and ensure accurate sensor readings.
• Document test results, anomalies, and configuration changes in accordance with engineering and quality standards.
• Support lifting, securing, and fixturing flight hardware using cranes, overhead hoists, and support equipment.
• Assist engineers in writing, reviewing, and updating test procedures and work instructions

This phase focuses on developing a deep understanding of environmental test and proper flight hardware handling.

Phase 2 – Engineering Technician Supervisor

After demonstrating strong technical performance and leadership capability, participants will transition into a supervisory role supporting solar array production operations.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead Environmental Test Operations: Oversee daily activities including thermal-vacuum, vibration, shock, acoustic, and related tests
• Plan and Prioritize Work: Develop schedules, assign tasks, and adapt plans to meet shifting priorities and deadlines
• Develop and Maintain Documentation: Author, update, and train staff on test procedures, SOPs, and quality/process documentation
• Monitor and Report Metrics: Track staffing levels, throughput, and resource utilization; prepare performance reports for leadership
• Troubleshoot and Resolve Issues: Investigate test failures and non-conformances; perform root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions
• Ensure Compliance: Enforce health, safety, and environmental regulations across all operations
• Mentor and Develop Team: Provide training, performance feedback, and support hiring efforts to grow team capabilities
• Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Interface with design, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and facilities teams; promote cross-training initiatives
• Provide Hands-On Support: Assist with environmental testing as needed to ensure successful execution

This phase provides early leadership experience managing a technical teams responsible for environmental testing of flight spacecraft hardware.

Phase 3 – Associate Engineer

Upon successful completion of the development program, participants transition into an Associate Engineer role supporting spacecraft production and integration.

Responsibilities include:

• Perform Thermal Vacuum (TVAC), vibration, and shock testing on components, subsystems, and fully assembled satellites. 

• Coordinate logistics and scheduling with internal engineering teams and external test facilities. 

• Work with and oversee environmental test vendors during off-site testing campaigns. 

• Support test article instrumentation (e.g., thermocouples, accelerometers, strain gauges) and data acquisition system setup. 

• Analyze test data, interpret results, and provide actionable feedback to design and manufacturing groups. 

• Own, operate, and maintain internal environmental test infrastructure, ensuring compliance with safety protocols. 

• Lead root cause analysis and drive the resolution of test anomalies and failures. 

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of test processes, procedures, and documentation. 

• Serve as the subject-matter expert on environmental test equipment and methodologies. 

Participants completing the program transition into engineering roles with a unique advantage—direct experience with handling spacecraft hardware and successfully executing environmental testing.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Physics or related technical discipline

Experience

• Recent graduate or early-career engineer with strong academic performance.
• Hands-on engineering project experience through internships, research labs, or academic programs.
• Experience working with mechanical assemblies, electronics, robotics, or hardware systems preferred.
• Demonstrated interest in spacecraft systems, aerospace manufacturing, or hardware engineering.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with mechanical assemblies, wiring harnesses, or electromechanical systems.
• Exposure to aerospace manufacturing, spacecraft systems, or cleanroom environments.
• Experience with bonding, adhesives, or precision assembly processes.
• Participation in engineering project teams, robotics competitions, or hardware-based research projects.

Soft Skills

• Strong curiosity and desire to understand how complex hardware systems are tested.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and ability to motivate and guide technical teams.
• Strong problem-solving mindset and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced engineering and production environment.

Technology Stack

Engineering & Manufacturing Tools

• Precision mechanical assembly tools
• Electrical harness installation equipment
• Adhesive and bonding application

Software & Productivity Tools

• Microsoft Office Suite
• Engineering documentation systems

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform hands-on work with spacecraft hardware and mechanical assemblies.
• Ability to stand for extended periods while performing integration and closeout operations.
• Ability to work in cleanroom environments under strict ESD and FOD control protocols.
• Ability to lift and move equipment up to 25 pounds as required for spacecraft integration tasks.
• Position is based at the Midland, Texas facility and requires on-site collaboration with spacecraft production and engineering teams.

 

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.