About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is about leading and optimizing manufacturing processes for a solar cell production line. You'll be hands-on in troubleshooting, managing a team, and driving improvements in efficiency and quality. It's a managerial position that requires both technical expertise and leadership skills.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have several years of experience in manufacturing engineering, particularly in process optimization and team leadership. A background in solar technology or similar industries would be beneficial, along with a hands-on, problem-solving approach.

Worth noting

The company is focused on a unique mission to provide global cellular broadband from space, which may appeal to those passionate about innovative technology. However, the role may involve high-pressure situations typical of a startup environment.

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 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.

Skills & Tags

go ai mobile data product design

Aplyr's read

AST SpaceMobile is pioneering satellite technology with a focus on connecting the unconnected, attracting engineers and technicians dedicated to innovation in space communications.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•AST SpaceMobile aims to provide global mobile coverage through satellite technology.
•The company is involved in cutting-edge satellite communications, promising significant industry impact.
•Recent hiring in engineering and technical roles suggests growth and development in their projects.

What to watch

•The space industry is highly competitive, posing significant challenges for AST SpaceMobile.
•Frequent shift work and relocations may affect work-life balance for employees.
•Achieving global satellite coverage is technologically complex and financially demanding.

Why AST SpaceMobile

•AST SpaceMobile focuses on bridging the digital divide with satellite-based mobile broadband.
•The company is developing the first space-based cellular broadband network.
•AST SpaceMobile's mission is to connect remote areas lacking traditional communication infrastructure.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?