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 motivated Flight Software Engineering Intern to join our Flight Software Team and support design, develop, and maintain the embedded software that powers AST SpaceMobile's satellite constellation, spanning development through Assembly, Integration, Test, Launch, and Commissioning.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist senior engineers in the design, development, and testing of embedded software modules under close guidance.
- Learn how mission-specific microcontrollers are integrated into spacecraft systems, with hands-on support from the team.
- Participate in design, code reviews and testing with the team.
- Support debugging and troubleshooting of embedded systems alongside experienced engineers.
- Contribute to writing and testing small software modules as assigned, with mentorship and code review support.
- Document and communicate design decisions and progress.
- Collaborate with other sub-system engineers to define and advance software specifications for development.
Technical Requirements:
- Basic understanding of programming concepts — exposure through coursework or college projects is perfectly fine
- Any tinkering with microcontrollers, hobby kits, or college lab work is a great starting point
- Awareness of what a Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) is; no hands-on experience needed
- Basic knowledge of C or C++ from college coursework; proficiency will be built on the job
- Familiarity with modern C++ concepts is a plus; willingness to learn is what matters
- Conceptual understanding of multi-threading from coursework is sufficient
- Awareness of concurrency concepts — will be guided through practical applications during the internship
- Familiarity with various protocols such as:
- Basic awareness of serial communication protocols (e.g. UART, SPI, I2C) from college labs is helpful; spacecraft protocols will be introduced during the internship
- Exposure to debugging interfaces (SWD, JTAG) is a plus; training will be provided
- Comfortable with development tools/technologies such as:
- Oscilloscopes (college lab familiarity is sufficient)
- Logic analyzers
- Multimeters
- Ability to read basic circuit diagrams as taught in ECE coursework
- Some familiarity with Git or any version control tool is helpful; we'll get you up to speed
- Basic comfort with using a computer and command-line interface
- Comfortable using a Windows PC for everyday computing tasks
Qualifications
- Basic familiarity with ARM microcontrollers or any embedded microcontroller (e.g. STM32, Arduino, Raspberry Pi) through coursework or projects
- Any exposure to FPGA programming (Verilog/VHDL) through academic coursework is a bonus
- Willingness to learn and navigate a large and complex codebase with mentorship
- Familiar with some scripting language or languages (Python, Ruby, Bash, etc)
- Academic interest or coursework related to the Aerospace or Space sector is a plus
- Familiar with Matlab/Simulink
Education:
Recent graduate (or final-year student) with a Bachelor's degree in Electronics & Communication Engineering (ECE), Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field
Experience:
No prior professional experience required. Academic projects, coursework assignments, or personal hobby projects demonstrating embedded systems or programming skills are welcome.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Any self-driven interest in space technology, satellites, or aerospace — side projects, competitions, or simply curiosity counts!
- Hands-on experience from electronics lab sessions during college (standard for ECE graduates)
- Submitted college projects or assignments on GitHub — even personal repositories are a great sign
- Strong academic record and a passion for space technology and embedded systems
Soft Skills:
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work effectively in fast-paced, cross-functional environments.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in documentation and project deliverables.
Technology Stack:
- Proficiency in C++ and RTOS development.
- Experience with Git version control.
- Skilled in using JTAG/SWD debuggers for embedded system troubleshooting.
- Hands-on experience with oscilloscopes and logic analyzers.
- Proficiency in Python for test automation and development tooling.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work effectively in a standard office and laboratory environment.
- Comfortable using a computer for extended periods of time.
- Ability to support hardware laboratory and testing activities as needed.
- Capable of lifting and moving equipment weighing up to 25 lbs.
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.
