What are the responsibilities and job description for the Thermal Design Engineer position at AdAstra?
About The CompanyOur client is building that future by developing the first reusable satellite platform with return capability transforming space from a one-way street into a two-way highway for innovation and commerce.The OpportunityThey are seeking an exceptional Thermal Design Engineer to architect and lead the development of their spacecraft’s thermal management system. As the first thermal engineer, you'll bridge the gap between analysis and hardware ownership, solving complex challenges that have profound implications for the future of commercial spaceflight. This is a unique opportunity to:Architect design criteria to drive thermal performance of all subsystems in orbit, during reentry and on the ground.Own the design, procurement, build, and test of all thermal control hardware on the vehicle (heaters, MLI, gap pads, radiators, thermal straps).Perform hand calculations to iterate through ideas and problems quickly with the structures, avionics, GNC and FSW teams.Own the vehicle thermal model in Thermal DesktopWork directly with technical leadership to shape the future of space transportationSupport recruiting efforts to shape the engineering team as we growResponsibilitiesYou'll lead the thermal design, analysis, and execution of our spacecraft thermal control systems, including:Managing technical interfaces with aerothermal teams for reentry analysisDeveloping and validating thermal models for both orbital and reentry phasesDesigning thermal management systems for orbital and hypersonic reentry conditionsCreating spacecraft thermal control systems for extended orbital operationsLeading selection and qualification for thermal management systemsDriving execution of development, qualification and acceptance test campaignsCollaborating with mechanical and electrical teams on thermal design criteriaWorking with vendors to develop custom thermal components systemsRequirementsBS in Mechanical Engineering or related field8 years of spacecraft thermal engineering experienceProven track record designing and qualifying thermal control systems through multiple successful missionsStrong understanding of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and thermal analysis toolsFundamental understanding of mechanical and electrical first principles and design methodologies outside the thermal domainExperience with Thermal DesktopExpertise in spacecraft thermal control techniques and technologiesDemonstrated ability to excel in dynamic, high-stakes engineering environmentsPreferred ExperienceMS in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldDirect experience with hypersonic vehicle or reentry system thermal analysisBackground in thermal protection system design and testingExperience with aerothermal analysis tools (FIAT, CBAERO or similar)Early-stage startup experience*The above qualifications are desired, not required. We encourage you to apply if you are a strong candidate with only some of the desired skills and experience listed.Logistical RequirementsThey are based in Denver, CO and believe in the power of in-person collaboration. They are onsite 5 days/week by default, but flexible when life requires it.ITAR RequirementTo conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. Benefit Highlights Base Salary: $150,000 - $180,000 DOECompensation is determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.Equal OpportunityOur client is an equal opportunity employer. They evaluate qualified applicants without regard to 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.About AdAstraAdAstra Talent Advisors is a headhunting and talent advising firm focused on the Climate, Space, and Defense sectors of Hard Tech. We specialize in pairing highly technical and executive talent with some of the world’s leading Hard Tech startups.At AdAstra, we catalyze the innovations that future generations depend on by placing the right people in the right seats. Our dedicated work enables inconceivable technology from Earth, to the stars. And it’s all because of trailblazing talent like you - those driven to do what’s never been done before. We care about long term relationships with both candidates and companies. Even if the role we initially discuss isn’t a perfect fit, it’s likely we’ll have something relevant to share with you in the future. Join us on our journey by following along via LinkedIn!CEO, Seyka Mejeur | LinkedIn profileCTO / COO, Brian Mejeur | LinkedIn profileAdAstra Talent Advisors | LinkedIn profileAdAstra Website
Salary : $150,000 - $180,000