--- title: 'Lead Structures Mechanic at AST SpaceMobile' canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/lead-structures-mechanic-ast-spacemobile-midland-texas-n3zm6myp9gh9' type: 'job' last_seen: '2026-09-05' --- # Lead Structures Mechanic at AST SpaceMobile - **Company:** AST SpaceMobile - **Location:** Midland Texas, United States - **Posted:** 2026-03-05 - **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-05 - **Apply:** https://ast-science.com/company/careers/?gh_jid=4670109005 ## Job description 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. The Structures Mechanic plays a critical role in the fabrication, assembly, and integration of spacecraft structural components used in our large-scale Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. This position is responsible for assembling, installing, and modifying structural hardware including aluminum, titanium, and composite components that form the primary and secondary structures of spacecraft systems. The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, comfortable working from engineering drawings, and experienced with precision assembly in aerospace, aviation, or similarly demanding manufacturing environments. ## Key Responsibilities - Assemble spacecraft structural components, subassemblies, and mechanical systems according to engineering drawings, work instructions, and specifications - Install fasteners including rivets, bolts, nut plates, and specialty aerospace hardware using proper torque and installation procedures - Perform drilling, reaming, countersinking, deburring, and precision fitting of structural components - Assemble and bond composite and metallic structures used in satellite frames, panels, and deployable systems - Perform precision alignment and fit-up of structural assemblies to meet engineering tolerances - Work with manufacturing engineers to resolve build issues and improve assembly processes - Maintain strict compliance with quality standards, documentation, and configuration control - Inspect work for dimensional accuracy and structural integrity prior to quality verification - Maintain tools, fixtures, and workstations in accordance with safety and 5S practices - Support spacecraft integration activities including structural modifications and repairs as needed ## Qualifications Education - High school diploma or GED required - Technical training, trade school, or aerospace certification preferred ## Experience - 3+ years of experience in aerospace structures assembly, aircraft structures, or precision mechanical assembly - Experience installing aerospace fasteners, rivets, and structural hardware - Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and assembly instructions - Experience working with aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and composite materials - Familiarity with precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and torque tools ## Preferred Qualifications - Experience working on spacecraft, satellites, launch vehicles, or military aircraft structures - Experience with composite bonding, adhesive applications, and structural repairs - Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing standards and quality systems - Experience working in cleanroom or controlled manufacturing environments - Previous work in high-rate production or prototype aerospace environments Soft Skills - Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship - Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment - Strong teamwork and communication skills - Problem-solving mindset with a hands-on approach - Ability to follow complex technical instructions with minimal supervision Technology Stack - Precision torque tools and calibrated fastener installation equipment - Hand tools, pneumatic tools, and aerospace assembly tooling - Precision measurement instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) - Digital work instructions and manufacturing execution systems (MES) - Engineering drawings and CAD-based documentation Physical Requirements - Ability to stand for extended periods during assembly operations - Ability to lift and maneuver components up to 40 lbs - Ability to work in confined spaces or elevated platforms when required - Manual dexterity for precision assembly work - Ability to work in a manufacturing and spacecraft integration environment 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. ## About AST SpaceMobile ## Company Overview - **One-liner**: AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard, unmodified smartphones. - **Entity Type**: Public (Nasdaq: ASTS) - **Headquarters**: Midland, Texas, USA - **Founded**: 2017 - **Founders**: Abel Avellan ## Core Business - **Primary industry**: Space-based telecommunications / Satellite broadband - **Target customers**: B2B (mobile network operators), B2C (indirectly through MNOs), and government/defense agencies - **Mission**: To eliminate connectivity gaps faced by today’s nearly six billion mobile subscribers and bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected using a space-based cellular network. ## Products & Services - **[SpaceMobile Network]**: A space-based cellular broadband network that delivers 4G/5G connectivity directly to standard smartphones without any hardware modifications, apps, or software updates. - **[BlueBird Satellites]**: The company’s commercial satellite constellation, designed to provide full broadband coverage globally. BlueBird satellites are among the largest commercial communications arrays in low Earth orbit. - **[BlueWalker 3]**: The prototype satellite used to demonstrate world-first voice, 5G, and video calls from space to ordinary phones. - **[Government & Defense Solutions]**: Tailored connectivity for tactical and public safety applications (e.g., FirstNet tests, government contracts). ## Market Standing - **Valuation/Market Cap**: Market capitalization exceeded $8 billion as of August 2024 (stock price ~$38.60). More recent figures are not publicly available but the company has raised over $2 billion as of Q2 2025. - **Key Metric (Total Funding)**: Over $2 billion raised (debt and equity) as of Q2 2025. - **Notable Investors/Partners**: Vodafone, Rakuten, American Tower, Samsung Next, Cisneros, Google (product partnership), AT&T, Verizon, FirstNet Authority. - **Growth Signals**: - Partnerships with nearly 60 mobile network operators covering ~3 billion combined subscribers. - Successfully completed first VoLTE voice calls, video calls, and 5G data connections using standard smartphones via satellite. - First public safety tests on FirstNet (Jan 2024) and first activation for government defense use cases (June 2025). - Commercial contract with Vodafone through 2034 for Europe and Africa. - 578 employees as of 2024; expanding manufacturing and office footprint globally. ## Competitive Advantages - **First-mover**: Only company offering direct-to-smartphone satellite broadband with no specialized hardware or software required. - **Patent Moat**: Over 3,800 patents and pending claims protecting proprietary technology. - **MNO Integration**: Deep partnerships with major global operators enable seamless integration with existing terrestrial networks. - **Satellite Scale**: BlueBird satellites feature large phased-array antennas (BlueWalker 3 array is 693 sq ft), providing a field of view over 300,000 sq miles. ## Strategic Focus - **Constellation Deployment**: Rapidly launching and operationalizing the BlueBird satellite fleet to start generating significant commercial revenue. - **Global Coverage Expansion**: Targeting full service across multiple continents, with a focus on remote and underserved regions. - **Government & Defense**: Broadening contracts for secure, tactical connectivity. - **Technology Advancement**: Continued R&D on next-generation satellite capabilities and network optimization. ## Why Work Here - **Culture**: Fast-growing company with a startup mindset; employees are encouraged to wear many hats and tackle meaningful challenges. - **Global Presence**: Offices in Midland (TX), Homestead (FL), Miami (FL), Lanham (MD), Tel Aviv, Barcelona, Edinburgh, Hyderabad, and other locations. - **Impact**: Opportunity to work on a historic transformation in global connectivity, directly connecting billions of people. - **Perks & Environment**: Nearly 500,000 sq ft of manufacturing and office facilities; emphasis on innovation, autonomy, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. - **Career Growth**: Open positions listed on Greenhouse; values proactive, passionate innovators. ## Sources 1. [AST SpaceMobile Official Website](https://ast-science.com) 2. [AST SpaceMobile Company Page](https://ast-science.com/company/) 3. [AST SpaceMobile Careers Page](https://ast-science.com/company/careers/) 4. [AST SpaceMobile Investor Relations](https://investors.ast-science.com/) 5. 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