We are seeking a highly motivated Thermal Engineer to support the design, analysis, development, integration, and testing of spacecraft and space-based systems. The ideal candidate will apply thermal engineering principles to ensure mission success across all phases of the product lifecycle, from concept development through launch and on-orbit operations.
This role will collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, systems, mission, and manufacturing engineering teams to develop thermal control architectures and validate thermal performance for complex aerospace systems operating in demanding environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform thermal analysis for spacecraft, payloads, and related aerospace systems using industry-standard modeling tools.
- Develop detailed thermal mathematical models to predict temperatures and heat transfer characteristics throughout mission profiles.
- Design active and passive thermal control systems, including heaters, radiators, thermal coatings, heat pipes, insulation, and thermal interfaces.
- Conduct orbital thermal analyses, transient thermal simulations, and thermal balance assessments.
- Generate thermal requirements, specifications, and verification plans.
- Support system architecture trades and thermal design optimization efforts.
- Define, plan, and execute thermal vacuum (TVAC), thermal balance, and environmental testing activities.
- Analyze test data and correlate analytical models with test results.
- Collaborate with structural, electrical, systems, and manufacturing teams to ensure thermal considerations are incorporated throughout the design process.
- Support technical reviews, including SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and post-test reviews.
- Prepare technical reports, analyses, presentations, and customer deliverables.
- Assist in anomaly investigations and resolution during integration, testing, launch preparation, and mission operations.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related engineering discipline.
- 3+ years of thermal engineering experience in aerospace, spacecraft, satellite, defense, or related industries.
- Experience developing thermal models and conducting thermal analyses using tools such as Thermal Desktop®, SINDA/FLUINT®, ESATAN-TMS®, or equivalent.
- Strong understanding of heat transfer principles, including conduction, convection, and radiation.
- Experience supporting environmental testing and thermal vacuum testing.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and requirements.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance, if required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
- Experience with spacecraft thermal control subsystem design.
- Familiarity with orbital environments and spacecraft mission operations.
- Experience supporting government and defense programs.
- Knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices.
- Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance.
- Experience with MATLAB, Python, or other engineering analysis tools.
Desired Competencies
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to engineering excellence.
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
- Self-starter with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Passion for space technology and innovation.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and company holidays
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities
- Opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking space missions and technologies
Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.eer to lead thermal design and analysis efforts. This role involves performing thermal analyses on spacecraft and satellites, utilizing advanced tools such as Thermal Desktop and FloCAD. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in fluid design and analysis, contributing to the success of significant aerospace programs.
Responsibilities
- Lead thermal design and analysis efforts for aerospace projects.
- Perform comprehensive