Director – Technology Development

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 highly experienced Director of Technology Development to lead the translation of advanced engineering concepts into scalable, production-ready solutions within a complex telecommunications environment. This role is responsible for ensuring that technical innovations are effectively operationalized, aligning development efforts with deployable, high-quality network solutions.

The Director will drive technical governance, oversee critical defect resolution processes, and lead cross-functional engineering teams to deliver reliable, service-ready network architectures.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the translation of engineering outputs into production-grade network solutions and deployment strategies

Define and maintain standardized network configurations and high-level system designs

Ensure solutions are deployable across integrated network environments, including access, core, and infrastructure layers

Oversee advanced defect triage and resolution processes, ensuring root-cause analysis and corrective actions are implemented

Establish and enforce engineering and design standards to ensure operational readiness and scalability

Serve as a senior technical authority, validating readiness of solutions before formal testing and deployment phases

Collaborate cross-functionally to align development, validation, and operational objectives

Lead and mentor multidisciplinary engineering teams, setting performance expectations and fostering technical excellence

Drive continuous improvement in system design, operational processes, and deployment methodologies

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field

Master’s degree in Engineering Management or a related advanced discipline preferred

Experience:

Minimum of 15+ years of experience in telecommunications, satellite communications, wireless networks, or similar technical domains

At least 5+ years of experience leading and managing highly technical, cross-functional engineering teams

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working within large-scale, complex network environments involving both terrestrial and non-terrestrial systems

Proven ability to translate research or development outputs into operational solutions

Strong background in system integration and end-to-end network architecture

Experience supporting production environments and resolving complex technical challenges

Soft Skills:

Strong leadership and team development capabilities

Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills

Proven ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams

Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of designs and deliverables

Ability to operate in a fast-paced, evolving technical environment

Technology Stack:

Telecommunications technologies including radio access and core network systems

Understanding of modern network architectures and integration approaches

Experience with large-scale, distributed network infrastructures

Familiarity with multi-node or multi-site network environments

Tools and systems used for network monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance optimization

Physical Requirements

Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods

Capability to participate in virtual and in-person meetings as required

Will require extensive travel based on business needs

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.