Associate Automation Engineer
Location: Midland, Texas, United States
Department: Quality
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 an Associate Automation Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of automated systems that improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, safety, and scalability. This role works across production, test, and engineering teams to help deploy controls, robotics, and software-driven automation that reduce manual intervention and enable reliable, repeatable operations.
The ideal candidate is an early-career engineer with foundational knowledge of controls, robotics, and software automation who is eager to build hands-on experience in industrial and manufacturing environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Support design and implementation of automated manufacturing systems, controls, and workflows using hardware and software solutions
- Assist with integration of sensors, actuators, PLCs, HMIs, and robotic equipment into production processes
- Develop and modify PLC logic, automation scripts, and control sequences under senior engineer guidance
- Troubleshoot automated equipment, controls, and software to minimize downtime and improve performance
- Participate in commissioning, validation, and testing of automation systems and production equipment
- Create and execute test plans, simulations, and acceptance criteria to ensure system reliability and safety
- Assist with robotic programming, setup, and optimization for manufacturing or test applications
- Develop and maintain technical documentation including wiring diagrams, procedures, and work instructions
- Collect and analyze performance data to identify process improvement opportunities
- Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Production teams to support continuous improvement initiatives
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Software, or related Engineering discipline
Experience
- 0–3 years of experience in automation, controls, robotics, manufacturing, or related environment
- Internship, co-op, or project-based automation experience acceptable
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or similar)
- Experience configuring or supporting HMIs/SCADA systems
- Familiarity with scripting or programming languages such as Python, Java, or C#
- Exposure to robotic systems (ABB, UR, Fanuc, Yaskawa, or equivalent)
- Experience supporting automated manufacturing or test equipment
- Knowledge of safety standards, equipment validation, and system qualification practices
- Experience with data collection, logging, or industrial networking
Soft Skills
- Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Ability to learn quickly in hands-on technical environments
- Detail-oriented with strong safety awareness
- Collaborative and team-focused mindset
- Strong organizational and time management skills
Technology Stack
- PLCs: Siemens, Allen-Bradley (or similar)
- HMIs/SCADA platforms
- Programming/Scripting: Python, Java, C#
- Robotic systems: ABB, UR, Fanuc, Yaskawa
- Industrial sensors, actuators, and controls hardware
- Microsoft Office Suite
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in manufacturing and lab environments
- Ability to stand, walk, and support equipment on the production floor for extended periods
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 lbs
- Ability to use tools, test equipment, and computers
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.
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