AST SpaceMobile, Inc.

Principal System Engineer - Payload

AST SpaceMobile, Inc.$120K — $150K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline
  • 5+ years of experience in wireless systems engineering, covering design, integration, and testing
  • Experience defining system-level requirements for hardware, software, and firmware
  • Hands-on experience in system architecture design within complex environments
  • Proven leadership skills in technical initiatives or engineering teams

Responsibilities

  • Lead design and development of wireless system architectures across multiple domains
  • Define and manage complex system requirements collaboratively
  • Conduct technical trade studies to drive architectural decisions
  • Own system requirements throughout the entire product lifecycle
  • Develop and optimize system architectures using advanced signal processing techniques
  • Define operational workflows and telemetry strategies for reliable performance
  • Support system integration and testing activities, including performance analysis

Benefits

  • Flexible working hours
  • Opportunities for continuing education and professional development
  • Support for innovative research and technology development
  • Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
  • Potential for occasional travel based on project needs
Full Job Description
Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and highly innovative Principal Systems Engineer - Payload to lead the design and development of advanced end-to-end wireless systems within a complex telecommunications environment. This role is responsible for defining system architecture across both space and ground segments, ensuring performance, scalability, and reliability throughout the full product lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the design and development of end-to-end wireless system architectures across multiple domains
  • Define and manage complex system requirements in collaboration with cross-functional engineering and R&D teams
  • Conduct technical trade studies and drive key architectural decisions across multidisciplinary programs
  • Own system requirements throughout the full lifecycle, including design, verification, validation, and qualification
  • Develop and optimize system architectures incorporating advanced signal processing and performance-enhancing techniques
  • Define system control processes, operational workflows, and telemetry strategies to ensure reliability and performance
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to translate research concepts into scalable, production-ready solutions
  • Support system integration, testing, and validation efforts, including development of test cases and performance analysis
  • Contribute to new product introduction and manufacturing readiness by supporting system-level optimization efforts
  • Drive continuous improvement and scalability of system capabilities across evolving product generations

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline

Experience:
  • A minimum of 5+ yearsof experience in wireless systems engineering, including design, integration, and testing
  • Experience defining system-level requirements across hardware, software, and firmware components
  • Hands-on experience with system architecture design and validation in complex engineering environments
  • Proven experience leading technical initiatives or engineering teams
  • Strong understanding of system integration, testing, and lifecycle management

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced knowledge of wireless communication systems and technologies (e.g., MIMO, beamforming, channel estimation)
  • Experience with digital signal processing techniques and performance optimization methods
  • Familiarity with modern wireless standards (e.g., 4G/5G, Wi-Fi, or similar technologies)
  • Experience developing or supporting complex communications systems in highly technical industries
  • Strong background in system modeling, simulation, or performance analysis
  • Demonstrated ability to innovate and contribute to emerging technologies

Soft Skills:
  • Strong interpersonal and leadership skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary environments
  • Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of system designs and deliverables
  • Innovative mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and technical excellence

Technology Stack:
  • System modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, or equivalent)
  • Wireless communication and signal processing tools
  • Test and validation platforms (lab instrumentation, automated test systems)
  • Software development tools for system-level integration (various languages and environments)
  • Data analysis and visualization tools
  • Standard office productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite)

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work in a standard office and laboratory environment
  • Ability to sit and use a computer for extended periods
  • Ability to support hands-on lab testing, integration, and validation activities as needed
  • Occasional travel may be required based on project or business needs

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.

About AST SpaceMobile, Inc.

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. is a telecommunications company that is developing a space-based cellular broadband network. The company's network will provide mobile connectivity to remote and underserved areas around the world. AST SpaceMobile, Inc. was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in New York, New York.
Learn more about AST SpaceMobile, Inc.
Size
50 employees
Market Cap
$696.8 million
Industry
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at AST SpaceMobile, Inc.

More Telecommunications & Hardware Jobs

Find similar Principal System Engineer - Payload jobs: