Sr. Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

About the Role

We 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.

What You'll Do

• 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.

What You'll Bring

• 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 (exempt only) – 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.