Principal Engineer - RAN (Satellite to Cellular Networks)

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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.

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Summary:

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Act as the end-to-end technical authority for the Radio Access Network within AST's Satellite & Cellular Networks Integration (SCNI) program. This role blends system-level architecture, Layer 1–3 troubleshooting, and deep RF protocol expertise. You'll lead validation from lab to field, drive performance alignment with Tier 1 operators and other global operators and ensure the radio interface is launch-ready for AST's direct-to-device satellite service.

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This role serves as the face of AST for all RAN-related matters—acting as the E2E technical authority across internal teams and external stakeholders, both local and international.

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Key Responsibilities:

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• Architect and own RAN subsystem integration across satellite and terrestrial interfaces
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• Drive simulations, E2E scenario design, vendor interoperability, and benchmark testing
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• Execute RF analysis, cell parameter tuning, and interference resolution for multi-vendor RAN
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• Lead deep-dive debugging across Layer 1 (PHY), Layer 2 (MAC/RLC), and Layer 3 (RRC/S1AP)
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• Perform log-level analysis using UE tools (QXDM, TEMS, Accuver) and network-side logs
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• Validate handovers, paging, call flows, and KPIs across satellite beam and terrestrial boundaries
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• Collaborate with device OEMs, gateway teams, and satellite payload SMEs to align RF interface
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• Contribute to lab setup, coverage modeling, and automation of testing pipelines
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Background:

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• 15–20+ years of telecom experience with deep technical ownership in RAN, RF, and Layer 3 protocols
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• VoLTE and VoNR expert with hands-on optimization across NTN to TN (Satellite to Cellular) call flows as per 3GPP Release 17/18
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• The RAN Principal Engineer must have deep expertise across LTE, 5G NR, VoLTE, and VoNR features, with hands-on experience in performance analysis using tools such as QXDM, Actix, and TEMS— owning the validation cycle end-to-end through to production-grade acceptance.
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• Must be able to lead deep-dive debugging across Layer 1 (PHY), Layer 2 (MAC/RLC), and Layer 3 (RRC/S1AP).
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• Proven delivery in Tier-1 operator environments
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• Strong expertise in physical layer design, Layer 3 decoding, and protocol-level troubleshooting
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• Experience with 5G SA/NSA, cloud- architectures, and satellite NTN adaptations
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• Hands-on with tools: TEMS, QXDM, Accuver, Keysight, Spirent, Anritsu, Wireshark
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• Vendor management experience
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Operator Standards & Tools:

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• TEO, iPro, Service Assurance, TEMS Investigation, InSite
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• IRIS, MOSHELL, NEMO, QA processes
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Notable Achievements:

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• Led commercial rollouts or lab-to-field transitions in Tier-1 networks
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• Developed architecture or troubleshooting frameworks adopted across OEMs
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• Filed patents or delivered innovative solutions in RF or Layer 3 domains
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Soft Skills:

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• High accountability and execution under pressure
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• Cross-functional influence without formal authority
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• Exceptional documentation, system modeling, and executive communication skills
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• Independent and result-driven, able to deliver without direct supervision
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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 , , , , /, veteran status, status, , , , marital status, mental or physical or any other legally protected status.