Flight Dynamics Engineer-MOPS

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 Flight Dynamics Engineer to develop the processes, tools, and procedures required for successful operation and expansion of the AST SpaceMobile satellite constellation, including the Flight Dynamics products used by the Mission Operations team. This position is critical to the safety of our satellite constellation, with strong focuses on spaceflight safety, automation, and scalability. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze AST satellite Flight Dynamics from initial launch through end-of-life for the entire constellation, including orbit determination, maneuver planning and performance, conjunction assessment and collision avoidance, and constellation analysis.
• Perform trade studies on Flight Dynamics and operations software tools.
• Develop operations processes that evolve throughout the lifetime of the AST SpaceMobile constellation.
• Improve existing operations procedures and processes to incorporate lessons learned from on-orbit performance.
• Support development of scalable Flight Dynamics automation tools.
• Work with systems engineers and vendors to develop operational products required for launch and early orbit phase (LEOP), on-orbit checkout, commissioning, and operation of satellites.
• Develop and test mission operations procedures, sequences of events, telemetry displays, and other Flight Dynamics products.
• Support system-level integration tests and end-to-end tests between Flight Dynamics, Mission Operations, on-orbit satellites, and factory satellites.
• Support mission readiness activities, including operations training, tests, mission simulations, and rehearsals.
• Provide mission-critical technical support for satellite Conjunction Assessment and Collision Avoidance, including periodic on-call support.
• Support system development activities such as design reviews, readiness reviews, requirements management, architecture development, integration and test, and formal program milestones. 

Qualifications 

Education:

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

Experience:

• Programming/scripting experience, with Python strongly preferred.
• Experience with satellite mission analysis tools, such as STK (preferred), GMAT, or FreeFlyer.
• Strong background or coursework in orbital mechanics/astrodynamics.
• Comfortable working in a Windows environment.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office tools (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Demonstrated ability to drive requirements for concepts of operation. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1-3+ years of Flight Dynamics experience.
• Multi-satellite LEO constellation experience, especially working with Mission Operations.
• Familiarity with the Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence).
• Familiarity with version control software, preferably Git.
• System engineering experience or significant classwork in system engineering or system design. 

Soft Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to work independently when necessary.
• High level of problem-solving capabilities.
• Self-starter willing to take ownership and initiative.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a remote, distributed team with diversified individuals with varying backgrounds to achieve mission success.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines in high-stress environments. 

Technology Stack:

• Satellite mission analysis tools such as STK, GMAT, or FreeFlyer.
• Python for scripting and automation.
• Windows-based operating environments.
• Microsoft Office tools (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence).
• Version control software such as Git. 

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to use a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to work in a standard office environment.
• Ability to provide periodic on-call support for time-critical conjunction assessment and collision avoidance activities.

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.