Flight Software Engineering Intern

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on extensive IP and patent portfolio, designed for both commercial and government applications. Engineers and space scientists at AST SpaceMobile are on a mission to eliminate connectivity gaps faced by today’s five billion mobile subscribers and bring broadband to billions who remain unconnected.

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated Flight Software Engineering Intern to join our Flight Software Team. This role involves supporting the design, development, and maintenance of 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).
• Conceptual understanding of multi-threading and concurrency concepts from coursework is sufficient.
• Basic awareness of serial communication protocols (e.g., UART, SPI, I2C) from college labs is helpful.
• Comfortable with development tools/technologies such as oscilloscopes (college lab familiarity is sufficient), logic analyzers, and multimeters.
• Ability to read basic circuit diagrams as taught in ECE coursework.
• Some familiarity with Git or any version control tool is helpful.
• Basic comfort with using a computer and command-line interface, and comfortable using a Windows PC.

Qualifications

• Basic familiarity with ARM microcontrollers or any embedded microcontroller (e.g., STM32, Arduino, Raspberry Pi) through coursework or projects.
• Willingness to learn and navigate a large and complex codebase with mentorship.
• Familiar with some scripting language or languages (Python, Ruby, Bash, etc).
• Familiar with Matlab/Simulink.

Education & Experience

• 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 exposure to FPGA programming (Verilog/VHDL) through academic coursework is a bonus.
• Academic interest or coursework related to the Aerospace or Space sector is a plus.
• 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.