AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Strategic Operations Manager to lead facility expansion and site development initiatives that support the company's next phase of growth. This role is responsible for planning, delivering, and operationalizing new facilities, manufacturing expansions, test environments, and strategic infrastructure projects from concept through occupancy and operational readiness.

The ideal candidate combines expertise in facilities development, project management, real estate, and operational planning with a strong ability to coordinate cross-functional teams. This individual will own projects end-to-end while leveraging AI-enabled tools and automation to improve site selection, project execution, reporting, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Lead planning and execution of facility expansion projects, including manufacturing sites, engineering facilities, test environments, and operational infrastructure
Manage site selection activities, including location analysis, due diligence, feasibility assessments, and recommendation development
Lead land acquisition, lease negotiations, property transactions, and facility development activities
Coordinate permitting, zoning, environmental reviews, regulatory approvals, and compliance requirements
Manage facility design, construction, renovation, and occupancy projects from initial requirements through completion
Develop and maintain integrated project schedules aligned with company growth plans, operational milestones, and production objectives
Coordinate with architects, engineering firms, contractors, consultants, brokers, utilities, and government agencies
Lead AI-enabled initiatives focused on site analysis, project tracking, document review, reporting, and operational efficiency improvements
Manage cross-functional readiness activities involving Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, Environmental Health & Safety, Information Technology, and Human Resources
Conduct operational readiness reviews to ensure facilities, personnel, systems, equipment, and processes are prepared for launch
Develop and manage facility budgets, capital expenditure plans, forecasts, and project spending
Monitor project performance, risks, and schedule impacts while driving mitigation actions and recovery plans
Coordinate infrastructure requirements, including utilities, power, security, technology, environmental, and safety requirements
Prepare executive presentations, business cases, project updates, and decision-support materials for leadership

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field
PMP, CAPM, or similar project management certification preferred

Experience

Minimum 7 years of experience in facilities planning, real estate development, construction management, strategic operations, capital projects, or related disciplines
Experience managing multiple complex projects simultaneously from planning through completion
Experience supporting facility expansion, operational readiness, infrastructure development, or construction programs
Experience managing external vendors, contractors, consultants, and development partners
Demonstrated hands-on experience utilizing AI tools, automation platforms, or advanced analytics solutions within project management or operational environments

Preferred Qualifications

Aerospace, defense, manufacturing, energy, telecommunications, or other industrial facility development experience
Experience supporting test facilities, manufacturing campuses, mission-critical infrastructure, or specialized operational environments
Experience working with government agencies, economic development organizations, or public-private partnerships