Aerospace Algorithms Engineer

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 creative Aerospace Algorithms Engineer to develop the brains behind our satellite fleet. You will write mission-critical flight code, create advanced simulations, and build the tools that turn raw satellite data into actionable insights. This role places you at the center of our engineering efforts, contributing to our operational satellites while pioneering technology for our next generation. This is a hybrid position consisting of three (3) days in the Lanham, MD office and two (2) days virtual.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement mission-critical flight code and ground software using object-oriented C++.
• Translate complex physics principles into elegant mathematical and algorithmic solutions for spacecraft control, navigation, and communication.
• Design and build robust testing frameworks, including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations, to validate flight readiness.
• Automate complex engineering processes to improve efficiency and reliability.
• Create and enhance data analysis and visualization tools to analyze telemetry from both simulations and our live satellite fleet.
  
  

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, physics, computer science, mathematics, or a related field.
  
  

Experience:

• 1-5 years of professional software development experience.
• Proficiency in C++ and a strong commitment to object-oriented design principles and writing clean, maintainable code.
• A solid foundation in algorithms and scientific computing.
• The ability to skillfully debug, analyze, and improve large, existing codebases.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the discipline to thrive in a remote, distributed team environment.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Python and/or MATLAB.
• Expertise in spacecraft dynamics or related fields (e.g., linear algebra, computational physics, quaternions, or Kalman filtering).
• Proficiency with Git for version control.
• Familiarity with Linux and PowerShell command-line environments.
  
  

Soft Skills:

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Self-driven problem solver
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• A proactive, self-starter attitude with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and a commitment to being a collaborative team player.
  
  

Technology Stack:

• C++ (primary)
• Python
• Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
• Scientific Computing
• Algorithm Design, Data Structures
• Git
• Linux
• PowerShell
• MATLAB
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods, either sitting or standing, while working on a computer.
• Regularly required to operate a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a keyboard, mouse, and printer. This includes repetitive movements of the hands and wrists.
• Ability to see details at close range to write, analyze, and debug code on a computer screen for sustained periods.
• Able to communicate information and ideas effectively so others will understand.
• Able to exchange accurate information in person, over the phone, and via digital communication platforms.
• May be required to use hands and fingers to handle, connect, or assemble small components, cables, and electronic hardware for hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing setups.
  
  

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.