RF & Network Performance Certification Lead

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 an experienced RF & Network Performance Certification Lead to drive end-to-end certification of device RF behavior and network performance across both 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 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.