Flight Software Engineering Intern

Role Overview

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices. We are seeking a motivated Flight Software Engineering Intern to join our Flight Software Team and support design, develop, and maintain the embedded software that powers AST SpaceMobile's satellite constellation, spanning development through Assembly, Integration, Test, Launch, and Commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in the design, development, and testing of embedded software modules under close guidance.
• Learn how mission-specific microcontrollers are integrated into spacecraft systems, with hands-on support from the team.
• Participate in design, code reviews and testing with the team.
• Support debugging and troubleshooting of embedded systems alongside experienced engineers.
• Contribute to writing and testing small software modules as assigned, with mentorship and code review support.
• Document and communicate design decisions and progress.
• Collaborate with other sub-system engineers to define and advance software specifications for development.

Requirements

• Basic understanding of programming concepts through coursework or college projects.
• Awareness of Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) concepts.
• Basic knowledge of C or C++ from college coursework.
• Conceptual understanding of multi-threading and concurrency.
• Familiarity with serial communication protocols such as UART, SPI, or I2C.
• Exposure to debugging interfaces like SWD or JTAG is a plus.
• Comfortable with tools such as Oscilloscopes, Logic analyzers, and Multimeters.
• Ability to read basic circuit diagrams.
• Familiarity with Git or other version control tools.
• Basic comfort with command-line interface and Windows PC.
• Familiarity with ARM microcontrollers (e.g., STM32, Arduino, Raspberry Pi).
• Exposure to FPGA programming (Verilog/VHDL) is a bonus.
• Familiarity with scripting languages like Python, Ruby, or Bash.
• Familiarity with Matlab/Simulink.

Skills

• C++
• RTOS
• Python
• Git
• Embedded Systems