RAN Deployment Engineer

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.

Position Overview

We are seeking a RAN Deployment Engineer to support testing, validation, and certification activities for advanced communications systems. This role is responsible for maintaining lab infrastructure, preparing test environments, executing test procedures, collecting and analyzing results, and ensuring testing activities are performed in a consistent, repeatable, and auditable manner.

The ideal candidate will work closely with engineering, operations, and quality teams to support system validation, troubleshoot issues, maintain lab readiness, and contribute to successful product releases and deployment activities.

Key Responsibilities

Operate and maintain laboratory infrastructure to support testing, validation, certification, and deployment activities

Prepare and configure test environments to support functional, performance, integration, and acceptance testing

Install software builds and releases while maintaining configuration control and environment consistency

Maintain baseline configurations and system images to support repeatable and reliable testing activities

Manage laboratory equipment, test systems, network infrastructure, and supporting hardware components

Execute test plans, test packs, and validation procedures in accordance with established processes and acceptance criteria

Perform both automated and manual testing activities while maintaining accurate execution records

Capture telemetry, logs, system metrics, and performance data for analysis and troubleshooting purposes

Perform configuration verification, integrity checks, and readiness assessments prior to testing activities

Identify, document, and track defects, anomalies, and test failures with detailed technical analysis and supporting evidence

Generate test reports, certification artifacts, and validation documentation for internal stakeholders

Support quality assurance and compliance activities by maintaining accurate records and audit-ready documentation

Assist with operational readiness reviews and provide documentation required for deployment and support teams

Support beta programs, release validation efforts, and production launch activities

Collaborate with software, systems, infrastructure, operations, and integration teams to resolve issues and improve testing processes

Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation, efficiency, quality, and operational excellence

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline

Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered

Experience:

Minimum 5 years of experience in telecommunications, networking, communications systems, software testing, systems integration, or laboratory operations

Experience supporting test execution, validation activities, and laboratory infrastructure management

Experience working within structured testing, certification, or quality assurance environments

Experience with automated testing, defect management, and test documentation processes

Experience supporting large-scale technical systems and operational readiness programs

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience supporting satellite communications, wireless communications, networking, or telecommunications environments

Experience with acceptance testing, commissioning, integration testing, or certification workflows

Familiarity with network operations environments and operational readiness processes

Experience supporting beta programs, field validation activities, or production launch readiness efforts

Knowledge of configuration management, change management, and release control processes

Experience with laboratory operations involving complex hardware and software systems

Familiarity with operational support systems, monitoring platforms, and network management tools

Soft Skills:

Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong organizational and documentation skills

Proven ability to follow established procedures while identifying opportunities for improvement

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced technical environment

Strong troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving skills

Ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, operations, and support teams

Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and accountability

Commitment to operational excellence, safety, and quality standards

Technology Stack:

Test management and test execution platforms

Automated testing frameworks

Defect tracking and issue management systems

Telemetry collection and monitoring platforms

Network performance analysis tools

Configuration management systems

Version control platforms

Laboratory infrastructure and test equipment

Network monitoring and reporting tools

Data collection and analysis platforms

Microsoft Office Suite

Engineering collaboration and documentation systems

Physical Requirements

Ability to work in a laboratory and office environment while using a computer for extended periods

Ability to work hands-on with servers, networking equipment, test systems, and laboratory hardware

Ability to review technical documentation, test procedures, data logs, and engineering reports

Ability to remain stationary for extended periods while conducting testing, troubleshooting, and analysis activities

Ability to follow laboratory safety procedures and safely operate technical equipment

Occasional travel may be required to support equipment installation, testing activities, and cross-site coordination

Ability to work in laboratory environments with technical equipment while adhering to established safety standards

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.