Satellite Telecommunications, Aerospace, Wireless Technology

Mechanisms Technician 1st shift

Midland, TXOnsiteFull TimePosted 18 days agoVisa sponsorship available

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Required skills

Mechanisms Technician
satellite deployment systems
mechanical subsystems
precision mechanisms
phased-array satellite structures
deployment assemblies
hinges
release mechanisms
actuators
structural hardware

Nice to have

aerospace
aviation
defense
high-reliability manufacturing
cleanroom environments
FOD

Role summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Mechanisms Technician for its satellite manufacturing operations. This role involves the assembly, integration, testing, and validation of satellite deployment systems and mechanical subsystems, focusing on precision mechanisms for large phased-array satellite structures. The technician will work with engineering drawings, install electrical harnesses, perform precision mechanical assembly, and execute functional testing. Candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience in manufacturing, automotive, aviation, or related fields are encouraged to apply. No aerospace experience is required. The role emphasizes quality, safety, and reliability, requiring meticulous attention to detail and the ability to follow procedures accurately.

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

About AST SpaceMobile

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

We are seeking a Mechanisms Technician to support the assembly, integration, testing, and validation of satellite deployment systems and mechanical subsystems. This role focuses on building precision mechanisms used within large phased-array satellite structures, including deployment assemblies, hinges, release mechanisms, actuators, and structural hardware. The successful candidate will work closely with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Test teams to ensure flight hardware is built to the highest standards of quality, safety, and reliability.

No aerospace experience is required. Candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience from manufacturing, automotive, aviation, industrial maintenance, heavy equipment, military, or technical trades are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

Assemble and integrate satellite mechanism subsystems, including deployment systems, hinges, actuators, latches, and structural assemblies.

Read and interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, assembly procedures, and technical documentation.

Install and route electrical harnesses, connectors, sensors, and associated hardware.

Perform precision mechanical assembly using hand tools, power tools, torque tools, and specialized equipment.

Execute functional and acceptance testing of mechanical systems and assemblies.

Support environmental testing activities, including vibration, thermal vacuum (TVAC), deployment, and life-cycle testing.

Troubleshoot hardware issues during assembly and testing and assist with corrective actions and rework activities.

Handle flight hardware in accordance with ESD, contamination control, and quality requirements.

Record manufacturing data, inspection results, and work completed in company systems.

Support tooling, fixtures, test equipment, and production workstations.

Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to resolve issues and improve manufacturing processes.

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Qualifications

Education

High School Diploma, GED, technical certification, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

Minimum of 2 years of experience in manufacturing, mechanical assembly, automotive repair, aviation maintenance, industrial maintenance, production assembly, military technical occupations, or related fields.

Experience using hand tools, torque tools, measuring equipment, and power tools.

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, schematics, and work instructions.

Preferred Qualifications

Aerospace, aviation, defense, or other high-reliability manufacturing experience.

Experience working in cleanroom environments.

Knowledge of ESD, FOD, and contamination control practices.

Experience supporting vibration, shock, thermal vacuum (TVAC), or environmental testing.

Experience with harness fabrication, crimping, soldering, and connector installation.

Familiarity with deployment mechanisms, actuators, motion control systems, or electromechanical assemblies.

Military aircraft maintenance, avionics, aerospace maintenance, or related experience.

Soft Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.

Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.

Ability to follow detailed procedures with a high degree of accuracy.

Strong organizational and documentation skills.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.

Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement.

Technology Stack

Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and production tracking software.

Electronic work instruction systems.

Torque tools and precision measuring equipment.

Electrical harness installation and testing equipment.

Microsoft Office Suite (preferred).

Quality documentation and inspection systems.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

Ability to perform repetitive hand and finger movements requiring precision and dexterity.

Ability to lift, push, pull, and/or carry up to 50 pounds.

Ability to work in various positions, including standing, kneeling, crouching, and reaching.

Ability to work in and around large structures, equipment, tooling, and confined spaces.

Ability to work near moving mechanical parts and equipment.

Ability to communicate effectively, including talking and hearing.

Ability to work with flight hardware, test setups, and precision instruments.

Ability to work extended hours and shifts during launch campaigns as required.

Ability to work in environments that may include exposure to airborne particles, fumes, and hazardous materials such as carbon fiber.

This job description may not be inclusive of all 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.

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.

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