Job details

Payload Operations Engineer

Get a free resume review

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.

Summary:

The Payload Operations Engineer performs all activities required to operate the AST satellite payload subsystems to support constellation service and in-orbit testing. This is a day-staff shift position supporting each of the AST Satellite Operations Centers (SOCs) but will also require support during some weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts in order to provide 24x7 payload support.

Duties include:

Support development of payload operations tools required for efficient automated payload tasks

Operate payload tools to create all configuration items required for the payload in-orbit testing (IOT) and commercial service

Monitor the service/test automation and analyze the results via evaluation of telemetries and logs

Coordinate payload system configuration changes as required to maintain commercial service levels

Work with tool developers for functionality updates and payload software updates

Coordinate troubleshooting with SOC, Network Operations Center (NOC) and Subsystem engineers to resolve any service issues

Monitor and process payload subsystem telemetry data to maintain payload subsystem state of health including but not limited to power, thermal, and RF performance

Maintain situational awareness of satellite, payload, and ground configuration and status

Operate SOC operations software tools

Support development of automated operations tools

Participate in daily shift handover briefings

Support mission product development including procedure development, test, and validation

Support system readiness, planning, and preparation for satellite in-orbit milestones

Attend required and routine training sessions, simulations, rehearsals, conferences, and program reviews

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) field

Must be a U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident Card holder

Excellent oral and written communications skills

Ability to work in an environment with rapidly evolving system requirements

Demonstrated ability to work independently

Technical understanding of satellite system architecture and subsystem functionality

High level of problem-solving capabilities

Familiarity with engineering analysis tools

Preferred Qualifications:

2+ years' experience, and/or Masters degree

Experience working with satellite communication payloads

Multi-satellite LEO constellation experience

Demonstrated ability to drive requirements for concepts of operation

Familiarity with version control software, preferably Git

Familiarity with the Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence)

Experience programming with at least one modern language such as Java, Python, Matlab, C#,

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.

Average salary estimate

$100000 / YEARLY (est.)

min

max

$80000K

$120000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Payload Operations Engineer, AST SpaceMobile

Are you passionate about space technology and eager to make a real impact in the world of satellite communications? AST SpaceMobile is on the lookout for a dedicated Payload Operations Engineer to join our innovative team in Lanham, Maryland. As the first and only space-based cellular broadband network, we're set to revolutionize connectivity around the globe. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of our operations, managing satellite payload subsystems essential for both constellation service and in-orbit testing. Your day will involve collaborating with our Satellite Operations Centers (SOCs), ensuring 24x7 support for our payload services, and working alongside talented professionals like yourself. You'll have the opportunity to develop and utilize payload operations tools, monitor telemetry data, and tackle challenges to enhance our services. With a focus on maintaining the health and performance of our payload systems, you'll coordinate with various teams to resolve any issues and contribute to mission product development. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or STEM field and are ready to dive into a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment, this could be the perfect fit for you. Join AST SpaceMobile in our mission to create seamless global connectivity!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Payload Operations Engineer Role at AST SpaceMobile

What are the main responsibilities of a Payload Operations Engineer at AST SpaceMobile?

As a Payload Operations Engineer at AST SpaceMobile, your primary responsibilities include supporting the operation of satellite payload subsystems, developing automation tools for efficient operations, and conducting in-orbit testing. You'll monitor and analyze telemetry data, troubleshoot issues with SOC and NOC, and ensure that commercial service levels are maintained. This role also involves maintaining up-to-date payload configurations and participating in mission product development.