RF & Network Performance Certification Lead

Company Description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space, designed to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices. Leveraging our extensive IP and patent portfolio, our network serves both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate connectivity gaps for the world's five billion mobile subscribers and bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced RF & Network Performance Certification Lead to drive end-to-end certification of device RF behavior and network performance across lab and real-world environments. This role is responsible for ensuring devices meet defined RF, protocol, and performance standards prior to launch and throughout their lifecycle. As a key technical leader, this individual will serve as the authority for RF and network performance readiness, ensuring seamless interoperability and delivering reliable, high-quality connectivity experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end RF and network performance certification across lab and field validation stages.
• Define certification criteria, entry/exit gates, and performance acceptance thresholds.
• Oversee lab-based testing including RF performance, throughput, latency, mobility, and reliability.
• Drive field validation activities to assess device behavior in real-world network conditions.
• Serve as a technical gatekeeper for launch readiness, supporting Go/No-Go decisions.
• Collaborate with external partners and internal teams to align on performance requirements and standards.
• Establish and monitor key RF/network performance KPIs across all validation phases.
• Analyze performance data, identify gaps, and lead root cause investigations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize device performance and certification processes.
• Manage defect lifecycle, including triage, tracking, and resolution of RF/network issues.
• Support post-launch monitoring, updates, and re-certification activities.
• Maintain certification documentation, frameworks, and governance standards.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field required.
• Advanced degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 12 years of experience in RF engineering, wireless systems, or network performance.
• At least 5 years in a leadership or technical lead capacity.
• Experience with modern wireless technologies (e.g., cellular or satellite systems) preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong expertise in RF testing methodologies and performance analysis.
• Experience supporting device certification and carrier or network acceptance processes.
• Familiarity with industry-standard testing tools and performance benchmarking.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams and external partners.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in testing and documentation.
• Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

Technology Stack

• RF test equipment and over-the-air (OTA) systems.
• Network performance and monitoring tools.
• Protocol analyzers and telemetry platforms.
• Data analysis and visualization tools.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office or lab environment.
• Ability to use a computer and testing equipment for extended periods.
• May require occasional travel to test sites or partner locations.

This job description may not be inclusive of all 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.