Quality Engineer – Thruster and Electric Propulsion

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.

Job Summary:

The Quality Engineer will be responsible for ensuring that thrusters and electric propulsion systems meet stringent quality standards throughout the production process. This role involves developing, implementing, and maintaining quality control procedures, conducting root cause analysis for defects, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to ensure product reliability and compliance with aerospace industry standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance and quality control processes for thruster and electric propulsion production lines.
• Perform inspections and audits of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished thrusters to verify compliance with design specifications and quality standards.
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain teams to identify and resolve quality issues promptly.
• Analyze production data and quality metrics to identify trends and areas for process improvement.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) for quality non-conformances.
• Ensure compliance with relevant aerospace standards and customer requirements (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001).
• Develop and maintain quality documentation including inspection plans, test procedures, and control charts.
• Support qualification and validation activities for new production processes and product introductions.
• Participate in supplier quality management and audits to ensure incoming components meet the required standards.
• Provide training and guidance on quality standards and best practices to production staff.
• Facilitate internal and external quality audits and respond to audit findings.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, yield, and reliability.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Proven experience (3+ years) in quality engineering within aerospace manufacturing, preferably with electric propulsion or thruster production.
• Strong understanding of electric propulsion systems and their manufacturing processes is highly desirable.
• Proficient with quality tools such as FMEA, SPC, root cause analysis, and 8D problem solving.
• Familiarity with aerospace quality standards (AS9100, ISO 9001) and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with quality inspection tools and measurement equipment.
• Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with electrical and vacuum systems.
• Knowledge of thruster assembly, testing, and qualification processes.
• Experience with statistical software and quality data analysis.
• Continuous improvement certifications such as Six Sigma or Lean.

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.