1st Shift Environmental Test Technician I (El Paso → Midland)

Build Satellites. Apply in El Paso. Launch Your Career in Midland.

This position is based in our satellite production facility in Midland, TX, with full relocation provided (details below).

Position Overview

AST is in search of an Environmental Test Technician I supports execution of environmental qualification and environmental test activities including thermal vacuum, vibration, shock, acoustic, and related testing. The role requires hands-on mechanical aptitude, experience with tools, test equipment, instrumentation, and safe operation of industrial equipment. Under general supervision, the technician performs test setup, execution, troubleshooting, documentation, calibration support, and equipment maintenance while ensuring compliance with aerospace quality and safety standards.

Compensation & Schedule

• Pay: based on experience, with overtime opportunities. Higher-level roles are available for more experienced candidates at increased pay.
• Schedule: 1st  Shift: Monday through Thursday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm (4x10s) with paid lunch and breaks.
• Flexibility: Weekday and weekday shifts are also available depending on experience and team needs.

What You’ll Do:

• Perform environmental testing including thermal vacuum, vibration, shock, acoustic, thermal cycling, and related qualification tests.
• Set up, configure, instrument, and operate test equipment including data acquisition systems (DAQs), multimeters, vibration shakers, thermal chambers, and thermal vacuum systems.
• Install and verify sensors such as accelerometers, thermistors, and thermocouples for test execution and data collection.
• Build, route, inspect, and troubleshoot wiring and harness assemblies used during test operations.
• Perform soldering, connector assembly, and electrical continuity checks as required.
• Use hand and power tools including torque wrenches and precision tooling to assemble fixtures and test hardware.
• Support solar panel and satellite hardware testing activities.
• Monitor test performance, collect data, identify anomalies, and assist with troubleshooting test-related issues.
• Support calibration activities for test instrumentation and measurement devices.
• Operate industrial equipment such as forklifts, cranes, and manlifts in accordance with training and safety requirements.
• Document test configurations, procedures, results, and non-conformances in accordance with quality standards.
• Collaborate with engineers and senior technicians to support successful execution of qualification and acceptance testing.

What You Bring:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 1 year of hands-on technical experience in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, industrial, mechanical, electrical, or test environments.
• Experience with wiring, harnessing, soldering, or electrical assembly preferred.
• Experience using hand tools, torque wrenches, and power tools.
• Experience operating or working around heavy equipment such as forklifts, cranes, or manlifts preferred.
• Familiarity with sensors including accelerometers, thermistors, or thermocouples preferred.
• Exposure to environmental test equipment, DAQs, multimeters, thermal chambers, vibration systems, acoustic testing, shock testing, or thermal vacuum systems preferred.
• Basic understanding of calibration processes and test instrumentation.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and test procedures.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to perform repetitive and precision tasks.
• Ability to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as required to perform job duties.
• Ability to communicate effectively, including talking and hearing.
• Ability to work in, on, around, and in proximity to large structures, equipment, and tooling.
• Ability to lift, push, and/or carry items up to 35 pounds as required.
• Ability to work near moving mechanical parts and equipment.
• Ability to work in and around tight or confined spaces.
• Ability to work in environments that may include exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and/or hazardous materials (e.g., carbon fiber).

Benefits: (Eligibility dependent)

• Medical, dental, vision
• 401(k) (pre-tax & Roth)
• Life insurance, disability coverage
• HSA, FSA benefits are optional
• Employee Assistance Program
• PTO / sick leave

Relocation Support (If You Accept)

• Up to $5,000 in temporary housing (first 3 months)
• $1,050/month stipend after 1st working month on an ongoing basis

If you are open to relocating to Midland, this can be a career changing, and life changing, move into the high-tech aerospace world offering a new skill set and job security in a very similar environment that will soon feel like home. We encourage you to apply to learn more about AST SpaceMobile and what Midland has to offer.

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.