Observable Space

Observable Space

Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Senior

Sponsorship not specifiedDetected 109 days ago
PythonMATLABRESTProduct ManagementANSYSFEAThermal AnalysisMechanical DesignAerospace EngineeringControlsResearchCommunicationCollaborationTolerance Analysis

About the role

  • We are seeking a highly-motivated and hands-on Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer to join our growing team.
  • 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.

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.
  • Collaborate with optics, mechanical, and electrical teams to ensure proper thermal integration with imaging, tracking, and sensing subsystems.
  • 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.
  • In this role, you'll design and develop thermal control systems for telescope platforms and spacecraft.
  • We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)

Requirements

  • 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).

Nice to have

  • 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.
  • Experience working in fast-paced, early-stage or startup environments.
  • Basic scripting or automation (Python, MATLAB) for thermal modeling or data analysis.
  • We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
  • Cutting-Edge Tools - Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.
  • Inclusive Team - We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.

Compensation

  • Competitive Compensation - A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.

Benefits

  • Equity Opportunities - Take part in our success with stock options.
  • Unlimited PTO - Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays.
  • Health & Wellness - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
  • All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Company info

  • Mission-Driven Culture - Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
  • Flexible Work Environment - Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week.

Equal opportunity

  • equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
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