Role SummaryWe are seeking a highly-motivated and hands-on Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you'll design and develop thermal control systems for telescope platforms and spacecraft. You'll work with a multidisciplinary team of optical, electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to ensure thermal stability and performance for ground-based and potential future space-based deployment.
Key Responsibilities- Design and optimize thermal control systems for spacecraft and telescope platforms (e.g., radiators, heaters, insulation, thermal straps, and enclosures).
- Develop thermal models and perform detailed thermal analysis (steady-state and transient) across operational environments.
- Perform STOP analysis (Structural, Thermal, Optical Performance) to verify system-level thermal stability and its impact on optical performance.
- Conduct FEA simulations for thermal, structural, and environmental conditions.
- Collaborate with optics, mechanical, and electrical teams to ensure proper thermal integration with imaging, tracking, and sensing subsystems.
- Define thermal requirements, margins, and verification strategies for system and subsystem performance.
- Support environmental testing, including thermal vacuum (TVAC), thermal cycling, and validation of thermal models.
- Support the full product lifecycle, from concept design and prototyping to testing and production.
- Participate in and contribute to design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.) and internal documentation.
- Provide engineering support during fabrication, integration, QC, and system validation.
Basic Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.
- 5+ years of experience in thermal engineering for aerospace or high-performance systems.
- Strong understanding of heat transfer fundamentals (conduction, convection, radiation).
- Experience with thermal analysis tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT, ANSYS, or similar).
- Experience developing and validating thermal models for complex systems.
- Effective communicator and collaborator.
- Demonstrated passion for aerospace or observational technologies.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with spacecraft thermal control systems and space environments (LEO, GEO, or deep space).
- Understanding of FEA (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.), tolerance analysis, and DFM principles.
- Experience with thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing, thermal cycling, and model correlation.
- Grasp of materials, coatings, surface properties, and thermal interface design.
- Understanding of system engineering workflows, interface control documents, and verification processes.
- Experience working in fast-paced, early-stage or startup environments.
- Basic scripting or automation (Python, MATLAB) for thermal modeling or data analysis.
What We Offer- Competitive Compensation - A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.
- Equity Opportunities - Take part in our success with stock options.
- Flexible Work Environment - Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)
- Unlimited PTO - Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
- Health & Wellness - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
- Cutting-Edge Tools - Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.
- Mission-Driven Culture - Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
- Inclusive Team - We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.
