About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is for an SoC/ASIC Architect focused on designing and defining complex System-on-Chips for satellite communications. You'll work hands-on with cross-functional teams to translate requirements into architectural specifications, impacting the development of a space-based mobile broadband network.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have a background in Electrical or Computer Engineering with experience in SoC architecture. You should be collaborative, detail-oriented, and comfortable making technical decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Worth noting

The company is pioneering a unique space-based broadband network, which could be a groundbreaking opportunity for those interested in cutting-edge technology. However, the team is small, which may mean a heavier workload and less support than in larger organizations.

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 a SoC/ASIC Architect.

The Silicon Team in Edinburgh is a small, highly focused group responsible for developing high‑value silicon that is core to AST’s mission of “Connecting the unconnected” - delivering the world’s first space‑based mobile broadband network.

The team works collaboratively to define and build next‑generation silicon, exploring advanced silicon technologies to continuously improve performance, capability, and efficiency. This is a hands‑on environment where silicon decisions directly impact AST’s ability to deliver a global communications network from space.

In this role, you will drive the architectural definition of complex System‑on‑Chips (SoCs) critical to AST’s satellite communications platforms. You will translate system and product requirements into high‑quality architectural specifications, guiding technical decisions from concept through implementation. Working closely with cross‑functional internal teams and external partners, you will help ensure timely delivery of robust, high‑performance silicon solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work cross‑functionally with hardware, software, verification, product, and systems teams to define and deliver SoC architectures.
• Own and author high‑quality architecture and specification documentation.
• Guide design trade‑offs across performance, power, area, security, and schedule.
• Engage in design, verification, and implementation reviews to ensure architectural integrity.
• Support silicon bring‑up and debug through close collaboration with validation and software teams.

Qualifications

Education:

BEng in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated capability delivering high‑quality architectural specifications.
• Strong background in hardware and digital design.
• Experience working on complex SoCs or ASICs from inception to tapeout.
• Background in some or all of the following areas: Silicon security, Boot flow, CPU architecture, Memory subsystems, Interconnects / NoC, High‑speed interfaces, Peripheral subsystems.
• Competency in Python scripting or programming.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s or PhD degree in a relevant technical discipline.
• Solid understanding of digital signal processing.
• Experience with MATLAB is a plus.
• Prior experience working on RF, communications or signal‑processing ASICs.

Soft Skills:

• Ability to work collaboratively across hardware, software, verification, product, systems, validation, and software teams.
• Ability to work closely with internal teams and external partners.

Technology Stack:

• Python scripting or programming
• MATLAB

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
• Occasional travel may be required to visit suppliers or other AST SpaceMobile design centers.

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.

Skills & Tags

python go ai mobile 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?