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.

Build Satellites. Apply in El Paso. Launch Your Career in Midland.

Have you worked in manufacturing, automotive, or mechanical assembly and want to take that skillset into something bigger? This is it. You’ll be building satellites and they don't get bigger than ours. If you have hands-on experience in manufacturing, automotive, or mechanical assembly, and are ready to apply those skills to something bigger, this is your opportunity. You’ll be contributing to the build of real satellite hardware, supporting one of the most advanced space manufacturing programs in the country.

This position is based in our satellite production facility in Midland, TX, with full relocation provided (details below).

Position Overview

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Mechanisms Technician to support the assembly, integration, and testing of satellite deployment systems and mechanical subsystems. This role focuses on building and validating precision mechanisms used in large phased-array satellite structures, including hinges, release mechanisms, actuators, and deployment systems.

This position is critical to ensuring reliable deployment of satellite components in orbit.

Compensation & Schedule

Pay: $33–$47/hour based on experience, with overtime opportunities. Higher-level roles are available for more experienced candidates at increased pay.
Schedule: Standard shift is Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM (3x12's) with paid lunch and breaks.
Flexibility: Weekday and weekend day shifts are also available depending on experience and team needs.

What You’ll Do:

Perform precision assembly and integration of satellite mechanism subsystems (hinges, release mechanisms, actuators, deployment systems).
Interpret and work from engineering drawings, 3D models, wiring schematics, and assembly procedures.
Install and route electrical harnesses, connectors, and sensors within tight tolerances and constrained volumes.
Execute functional, environmental, and acceptance testing (e.g., deployment tests, torque verification, limit switch validation).
Support mechanism testing including vibration, thermal vacuum (TVAC), and life cycle testing.
Troubleshoot anomalies during integration and testing; perform rework and corrective actions as required.
Handle flight hardware in compliance with contamination control and ESD requirements.
Record build and test data, non-conformances, and work performed in manufacturing systems.
Collaborate with engineering, quality, and test teams to resolve issues and improve processes.
Maintain tooling, fixtures, and test setups used for mechanism integration and validation.

What you bring:

Associate degree or technical certification in mechanical, electrical, or electromechanical technology (or equivalent hands-on experience).
2+ years of experience in precision mechanical assembly and/or electrical integration.
Ability to read and interpret detailed engineering drawings and schematics.
Experience using hand tools, torque tools, and basic electrical test equipment (multimeter, continuity tester).
Strong troubleshooting skills across mechanical and electrical systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in aerospace or high-reliability hardware environments.
Familiarity with satellite mechanisms (deployment systems, HDRMs, spring-driven systems, motorized actuators).
Experience working in cleanroom environments (ISO class standards).
Knowledge of ESD, FOD, and contamination control practices.
Experience with environmental testing (vibe, shock, TVAC).
Soldering, crimping, and harness fabrication experience (IPC standards preferred).

Key Skills:

Precision assembly and mechanical aptitude
Electrical integration and harness routing
Troubleshooting under test conditions
Attention to detail and configuration control discipline

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
Ability to use hands and fingers to perform repetitive and precision tasks.
Ability to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as required to perform job duties.
Ability to communicate effectively, including talking and hearing.
Ability to work in, on, around, and in proximity to large structures, equipment, and tooling.
Ability to lift, push, and/or carry items up to 40 pounds as required.
Ability to work near moving mechanical parts and equipment.
Ability to work in and around tight or confined spaces.
Ability to work in environments that may include exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and/or hazardous materials (e.g., carbon fiber).

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
Ability to use hands and fingers to perform repetitive and precision tasks.
Ability to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as required to perform job duties.
Ability to communicate effectively, including talking and hearing.
Ability to work in, on, around, and in proximity to large structures, equipment, and tooling.
Ability to lift, push, and/or carry items up to 40 pounds as required.
Ability to work near moving mechanical parts and equipment.
Ability to work in and around tight or confined spaces.
Ability to work in environments that may include exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and/or hazardous materials (e.g., carbon fiber).

Benefits: (Eligibility dependent)

Medical, dental, vision
401(k) (pre-tax & Roth)
Life insurance, disability coverage
HSA, transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
PTO / sick leave

How the Process Works (and Why It’s Different)

The screening & hiring process begins with:

Your application
If selected, you'll do a virtual interview via Microsoft Teams
Candidates who move forward will then be invited to Midland, TX for a same-day round-trip, company-sponsored visit to tour the facility, meet the team, and complete onsite interviews.
This provides an opportunity to fully understand the work environment and expectations before making a final decision.
Immediate offers will be given

Same-Day Midland Visit (For Qualified Candidates)

We bus you to Midland and back to El Paso the same day so you can:

Walk the production floor
See real satellite builds in progress
Meet engineering, production, and leadership
Interview onsite (and potentially accelerate the process)
Get a clear picture of the move before making a decision

Role Timeline

Apply in El Paso, TX
Interview and Site tour of AST SpaceMobile in Midland, TX within a week
Immediate offer
Start as soon as you can get here with our relocation financial assistance

Relocation Support (If You Accept)

Up to $5,000 in temporary housing (first 3 months)
$1,050/month stipend to support living arrangements after 1st working month on an ongoing basis

If you are open to relocating to Midland, this can be a career changing, and life changing, move into the high-tech aerospace world offering a new skill set and job security in a very similar environment that will soon feel like home. We encourage you to apply to learn more about AST SpaceMobile and what Midland has to offer.

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.