Principal RAN Systems Engineer

About this role

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 and technically driven Principal RAN Systems Engineer to lead the operationalization of advanced LTE and 5G capabilities within a complex, next-generation telecommunications environment. This role bridges research & development and production operations, translating system innovations into scalable, service-ready deployments while ensuring performance, reliability, and operational excellence across integrated network systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end readiness and deployment of RAN features and configurations across production environments

• Define and maintain standardized configuration baselines to ensure consistent network performance and scalability

• Develop high-level design (HLD) documentation outlining system architecture, interfaces, and deployment strategies

• Drive feature enablement from development through staged production deployment, including monitoring and rollback planning

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align system integration across network, hardware, and software components

• Serve as a senior escalation point for complex technical issues, leading root cause analysis and resolution efforts

• Manage the lifecycle of critical system defects, including validation, regression testing, and production verification

• Create and maintain operational documentation, including deployment procedures and troubleshooting guides

• Support system validation, testing strategies, and performance optimization initiatives

• Act as a technical liaison with internal teams, vendors, and external partners to support system integration and feature delivery

• Contribute to continuous improvement by translating operational learnings into preventive and corrective processes

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering, or a related technical field

Experience:

• A minimum of 10+ years of experience in systems engineering, RAN performance, or network architecture

• Extensive experience with LTE and/or 5G technologies in production or integration environments

• Proven experience developing system designs, configurations, and technical documentation

• Strong background in troubleshooting complex system and network issues with a focus on root cause analysis

• Experience working across multidisciplinary teams to deliver large-scale technical solutions

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with non-terrestrial or hybrid network architectures

• Background in RF systems, antenna technologies, or advanced wireless communication concepts

• Familiarity with modern network architectures such as O-RAN or similar frameworks

• Experience with interoperability across multi-vendor environments

• Knowledge of system-level modeling, performance analysis, and optimization techniques

• Experience supporting global deployments or working with external partners/operators

Soft Skills:

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across engineering and operational teams

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities

• Ability to manage multiple complex priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of system configurations and deliverables

• Ownership mindset with the ability to navigate ambiguity and drive outcomes

Technology Stack:

• RAN technologies (LTE, 5G NR, baseband systems, scheduling frameworks)

• Networking and interface protocols (Ethernet/IP, synchronization protocols, distributed systems)

• Modeling and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, data analysis libraries)

• Logging, telemetry, and performance monitoring systems

• Issue tracking and documentation tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence or similar platforms)

• Standard productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office or technical lab environment

• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods

• Ability to participate in technical troubleshooting sessions and system testing activities

• Occasional travel may be required based on project or operational 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.

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