Harness Manufacturing Engineer – LEO Satellite Applications

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 Summary

The Harness Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and supporting the production of electrical harnesses and cable assemblies for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite platforms. This role ensures harnesses are designed, manufactured, and tested to meet aerospace standards and mission requirements, while improving quality, repeatability, and production efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Manufacturing Engineering Support:
• Develop and maintain harness assembly processes, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation (routers, travelers, and assembly drawings).
• Support design-to-production handoffs by reviewing harness design schematics and layouts for manufacturability and reliability.
• Define and select tooling, equipment, and materials required for harness production.
• Drive improvements in harness routing, termination, and installation practices.
• Production Oversight:
• Provide on-the-floor support to manufacturing technicians during harness assembly, integration, and troubleshooting.
• Establish and optimize assembly sequences and jigs to ensure repeatable, high-quality harness fabrication.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventive actions for nonconformances.
• Testing and Quality Assurance:
• Develop and implement testing protocols using automated harness testers (e.g., CIRRIS or similar systems).
• Ensure all assemblies comply with IPC/WHMA-A-620 and NASA/ESA workmanship standards.
• Review and approve first article inspections (FAIs) and ensure compliance with aerospace quality requirements.
• Process Improvement & Documentation:
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to increase production efficiency and reduce cost.
• Maintain configuration management of harness designs, tooling, and process documentation.
• Collaborate with design engineers, quality teams, and supply chain to ensure smooth production flow.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or related field; or equivalent technical experience.
• 3+ years of experience in harness or cable assembly manufacturing for aerospace, defense, or satellite applications.
• Strong understanding of harness design principles, electrical schematics, and 3D CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, Creo, SolidWorks).
• Familiarity with industry standards: IPC/WHMA-A-620, ECSS-Q-ST-70, NASA-STD-8739.4.
• Hands-on experience with crimping, soldering, wire dressing, and connectorization.
• Experience with automated harness testers (CIRRIS, DIT-MCO, etc.).
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a fast-paced, high-reliability production environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in satellite or spacecraft harness design and integration.
• Knowledge of harness routing and design in 3D modeling software.
• Understanding of aerospace material selection (wires, connectors, backshells, shielding, and sleeving).
• Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.