Metrology Technician Lead (Dayshift Mon-Thurs 7:30am-5:30pm) (El Paso, TX Midland, TX)

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.

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

Have you worked in manufacturing, automotive, or mechanical assembly and want to take that skill set into something bigger? You’ll be contributing to the build of real satellite hardware, supporting one of the most advanced space manufacturing programs in the country.

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

Compensation & Schedule

• Pay: DOE based on experience, with overtime opportunities. 
• Schedule: Standard shift is Monday–Thursday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (4x10) with paid lunch and breaks. 

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Metrology Technician Lead to validate critical dimensions on complex satellite assemblies using advanced precision measurement equipment, including Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM), Laser Trackers, Romer Arms, and 3D Laser Scanning systems. This role requires strong hands-on experience with Spatial Analyzer (SA) and PC-DMIS measurement software to ensure accurate data collection, alignment, and dimensional verification in a high-precision aerospace manufacturing environment.

In addition to technical execution, this position serves as a lead for daily metrology operations, supporting workflow coordination, technician assignment, and production prioritization to ensure timely and accurate completion of measurement activities.

Leadership & Operational Coordination

As a lead, this role is responsible for organizing and managing metrology work through internal tracking systems (Jira or equivalent), including:

• Prioritizing and scheduling measurement requests based on production needs and urgency
• Assigning tasks to Metrology Technicians to balance workload and optimize efficiency
• Coordinating overtime coverage, including weekday and weekend assignments
• Collaborating with second-shift teams and external metrology contractors to ensure continuity of operations
• Communicating daily activities, priorities, and risks to the Quality Assurance Supervisor/Manager

This position plays a critical role in ensuring alignment between metrology, production, and quality teams while maintaining high standards of accuracy, efficiency, and accountability.

What You’ll Do:

Dimensional Inspection & Alignment

• Perform precision measurement and alignment of large satellite structures using:
• • Laser Trackers
  • Portable CMM systems (Romer Arms)
  • CMM and 3D scanning systems (as needed)
• Validate assemblies against engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements
• Execute alignment and verification activities for critical hardware

Measurement Systems & Software

• Utilize Spatial Analyzer (SA) for:
• • Data collection
  • Alignment workflows
  • Deviation analysis
• Operate and program measurement systems to ensure high accuracy and repeatability
• Maintain measurement traceability in accordance with quality standards

Data Analysis & Quality Support

• Analyze measurement data to identify deviations and non-conformances
• Generate detailed reports for engineering and quality teams
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions

Cross-Functional Support

• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve dimensional issues
• Provide technical input on measurement strategy and best practices
• Support production timelines with accurate and timely measurement execution

Continuous Improvement & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with:
• • ASME Y14.5 (GD&T)
  • ISO 17025 principles
  • Internal AST quality systems
• Drive improvements in measurement efficiency and accuracy

What you bring:

Education

• High school diploma required
• Technical or associate degree preferred

Experience (Updated to Match QA Expectation)

• Minimum 2–3+ years of hands-on Laser Tracker experience (REQUIRED)
• Minimum 2–3+ years using Spatial Analyzer (SA) software (REQUIRED)
• 3–5+ years in metrology, calibration, or precision measurement

Technical Skills

• Strong experience with:
• • Laser Trackers (must-have)
  • Spatial Analyzer (SA) (must-have)
  • CMM / Portable CMM systems
• Understanding of:
• • GD&T (ASME Y14.5)
  • Large assembly measurement and alignment
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD models

Preferred Qualifications

• Aerospace or satellite manufacturing experience
• Experience with large structure alignment (this is HUGE for AST)
• Familiarity with ISO 17025
• Experience with PC-DMIS (nice to have, not priority vs SA)

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 40 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, transportation benefits
• 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 to support living arrangements 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.  

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.