Metrology Technician Lead (Dayshift Mon-Thurs 7:30am-5:30pm) (El Paso, TX → Midland, TX)
Job Description
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.Build Satellites. Apply in El Paso. Launch Your Career in Midland.Have you worked in manufacturing, automotive, or mechanical assembly and want to take that skill set into something bigger? You'll be contributing to the build of real satellite hardware, supporting one of the most advanced space manufacturing programs in the country.This position is based in our satellite production facility in Midland, TX, with full relocation provided (details below).Compensation & SchedulePay: DOE based on experience, with overtime opportunities.Schedule: Standard shift is Monday–Thursday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (4x10) with paid lunch and breaks.Position OverviewWe are seeking a detail-oriented Metrology Technician Lead to validate critical dimensions on complex satellite assemblies using advanced precision measurement equipment, including Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM), Laser Trackers, Romer Arms, and 3D Laser Scanning systems. This role requires strong hands-on experience with Spatial Analyzer (SA) and PC-DMIS measurement software to ensure accurate data collection, alignment, and dimensional verification in a high-precision aerospace manufacturing environment.In addition to technical execution, this position serves as a lead for daily metrology operations, supporting workflow coordination, technician assignment, and production prioritization to ensure timely and accurate completion of measurement activities.Leadership & Operational CoordinationAs a lead, this role is responsible for organizing and managing metrology work through internal tracking systems (Jira or equivalent), including:Prioritizing and scheduling measurement requests based on production needs and urgencyAssigning tasks to Metrology Technicians to balance workload and optimize efficiencyCoordinating overtime coverage, including weekday and weekend assignmentsCollaborating with second-shift teams and external metrology contractors to ensure continuity of operationsCommunicating daily activities, priorities, and risks to the Quality Assurance Supervisor/ManagerThis position plays a critical role in ensuring alignment between metrology, production, and quality teams while maintaining high standards of accuracy, efficiency, and accountability.What You'll Do:Dimensional Inspection & AlignmentPerform precision measurement and alignment of large satellite structures using:Laser TrackersPortable CMM systems (Romer Arms)CMM and 3D scanning systems (as needed)Validate assemblies against engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirementsExecute alignment and verification activities for critical hardwareMeasurement Systems & SoftwareUtilize Spatial Analyzer (SA) for:Data collectionAlignment workflowsDeviation analysisOperate and program measurement systems to ensure high accuracy and repeatabilityMaintain measurement traceability in accordance with quality standardsData Analysis & Quality SupportAnalyze measurement data to identify deviations and non-conformancesGenerate detailed reports for engineering and quality teamsSupport root cause analysis and corrective actionsCross-Functional SupportPartner with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve dimensional issuesProvide technical input on measurement strategy and best practicesSupport production timelines with accurate and timely measurement executionContinuous Improvement & ComplianceEnsure compliance with:ASME Y14.5 (GD&T)ISO 17025 principlesInternal AST quality systemsDrive improvements in measurement efficiency and accuracyWhat you bring:EducationHigh school diploma requiredTechnical or associate degree preferredExperience (Updated to Match QA Expectation)Minimum 2–3+ years of hands-on Laser Tracker experience (REQUIRED)Minimum 2–3+ years using Spatial Analyzer (SA) software (REQUIRED)3–5+ years in metrology, calibration, or precision measurementTechnical SkillsStrong experience with:Laser Trackers (must-have)Spatial Analyzer (SA) (must-have)CMM / Portable CMM systemsUnderstanding of:GD&T (ASME Y14.5)Large assembly measurement and alignmentAbility to read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD modelsPreferred QualificationsAerospace or satellite manufacturing experienceExperience with large structure alignment (this is HUGE for AST)Familiarity with ISO 17025Experience with PC-DMIS (nice to have, not priority vs SA)Physical Requirements & Work Environment:Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.Ability to use hands and fingers to perform repetitive and precision tasks.Ability to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as required to perform job duties.Ability to communicate effectively, including talking and hearing.Ability to work in, on, around, and in proximity to large structures, equipment, and tooling.Ability to lift, push, and/or carry items up to 40 pounds as required.Ability to work near moving mechanical parts and equipment.Ability to work in and around tight or confined spaces.Ability to work in environments that may include exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and/or hazardous materials (e.g., carbon fiber).Benefits: (Eligibility dependent)Medical, dental, vision401(k) (pre-tax & Roth)Life insurance, disability coverageHSA, transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramPTO / sick leaveRelocation Support (If You Accept)Up to $5,000 in temporary housing (first 3 months)$1,050/month stipend to support living arrangements after 1st working month on an ongoing basisIf you are open to relocating to Midland, this can be a career changing, and life changing, move into the high-tech aerospace world offering a new skill set and job security in a very similar environment that will soon feel like home. We encourage you to apply to learn more about AST SpaceMobile and what Midland has to offer.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.