Thermal Engineer

We are partnering with an expanding commercial space startup focused on deploying a unique solution for the industry. As they move from concept to orbit, they need a Thermal Engineer to take ownership of thermal analysis, hardware design, and critical environmental testing.

This is a hands-on role for an engineer ready to bridge the gap between digital models and flight-ready hardware in a fast-paced, agile environment.

Responsibilities

You will be responsible for the full thermal lifecycle of satellite components, from high-level architectural analysis to orbital validation.

• Thermal Architecture & Design: Lead the thermal design of satellite components, utilizing passive and active control hardware including radiators, heaters, heat pipes, and surface coatings.
• Analysis & Simulation: Perform high-fidelity analysis using industry-standard software (ANSYS, Sinda/Fluint, RadCad, or Siemens) to predict performance under varying orbital conditions.
• Hardware Integration: Collaborate with mechanical teams to design and integrate MLI (Multi-Layer Insulation) blankets and thermal control systems into the wider spacecraft bus.
• Testing & Validation: Devise and execute comprehensive environmental test campaigns (including TVAC) to validate hardware performance in extreme conditions, correlating ground test results with orbital data.
• Documentation & BOM Management: Manage technical documentation and compile comprehensive parts lists from BOMs, engineering drawings, and supplier data to ensure seamless manufacturing handoffs.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Manufacturing, Product, and Integration groups to ensure thermal requirements are met without compromising mass or volume constraints.

What It Takes

We are looking for more than just a degree; we need an engineer with the practical skills to deliver flight hardware.

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in the aerospace or defense sector, with a specific focus on thermal subsystems.
• Analysis Proficiency: Demonstrated fluency in space thermal analysis software (Thermal Desktop, ANSYS, Sinda/Fluint, or similar). You must be able to not only run the software but interpret the data to drive design changes.
• Hardware Knowledge: Practical experience designing or specifying thermal control hardware, specifically MLI blankets, heat pipes, and radiators.
• CAD Capabilities: Proficiency in CAD software (Solidworks, CREO, or AutoCAD) to assist in the mechanical integration of thermal components.
• Testing Experience: Previous exposure to spacecraft integration and testing, specifically regarding thermal vacuum testing (TVAC) and understanding how to extract and validate performance specifications (NAS, SAE, MS).
• Coding Skills: Basic working knowledge of MATLAB or Python for data processing and analysis.

What We Offer

• Competitive Compensation: Strong base salary plus equity-based compensation, own a stake in the mission.
• Time Off: Highly competitive PTO policy to ensure work-life balance.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• Incentives: Performance-based bonus structure rewarding project milestones and mission success.