Lead Manufacturing Engineer

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

Position Summary

The Lead Manufacturing Engineer / Manufacturing Engineering Manager will oversee and optimize manufacturing processes for the Cover Glass Integrated Solar Cell (CIC) production line. This role focuses on improving yield, throughput, process reliability, and equipment efficiency and managing production line personnel. This position will lead cross-functional teams, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Process Development & Optimization:
• Lead development, qualification, and scaling of processes for cover glass lamination, laser cutting, interconnect integration, and solar cell encapsulation.
• Implement Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles for new product introductions (NPI).
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for process deviations and yield loss.
• Production Support:
• Provide hands-on technical support to resolve day-to-day production issues across the CGISC line.
• Maintain and improve key process parameters (KPPs) to ensure consistent quality and throughput.
• Lead troubleshooting and failure analysis of mechanical and process equipment.
• Equipment & Tooling:
• Specify, procure, and qualify production equipment and fixtures.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors for installation, calibration, and maintenance strategies.
• Leadership & Collaboration:
• Lead engineering teams and mentor junior engineers and technicians.
• Interface with R&D, Quality, Supply Chain, and Maintenance to align manufacturing goals with broader company objectives.
• Lean & Continuous Improvement:
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and SPC methods to reduce waste and improve line efficiency.
• Develop and sustain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Work Instructions.
• Data & Reporting:
• Analyze process data to monitor trends, detect abnormalities, and drive decisions.
• Generate technical documentation, process maps, and reports for stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
• 5–10 years of experience in high-tech manufacturing, preferably in photovoltaic, semiconductor, or display panel industries.
• Strong knowledge of glass processing, solar module assembly, laser operations, or thin-film technology.
• Experience with statistical analysis tools (JMP, Minitab), MES systems, and CAD software, or similar.
• Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional project management and production scaling.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or similar quality/environmental standards.
• Knowledge of automation systems, robotics, and cleanroom manufacturing.
• Hands-on experience with FMEA, DOE, and SPC implementation.

Work Environment

• Split between cleanroom manufacturing floor and engineering office.
• Occasional travel to vendor or partner facilities as required.
• Occasional off-hours support for shift operations or emergencies.

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.