Principal Thermal Engineer

Capgemini Engineering; Stevenage; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Principal Thermal Engineer based in Stevenage. In this role, you will lead thermal design and analysis for spacecraft subsystems and validate thermal models using ESATAN‑TMS. The ideal candidate will possess a relevant degree and have experience in the space industry, along with excellent problem-solving and communication skills. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams and manage mentorship activities for junior engineers. Contract length is 12 months with pay up to £50 per hour.

Qualifications

• Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical or Thermal Engineering, or related field.
• Experience in thermal engineering within the space industry.
• Proficiency in thermal analysis software.
• Strong understanding of space thermal environments.
• Experience with thermal testing and instrumentation.
• Knowledge of thermal coatings and materials for space applications.
• Experience with flight hardware development.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead thermal design and analysis activities for spacecraft subsystems.
• Develop and validate thermal models using ESATAN‑TMS.
• Define thermal control strategies including passive and active systems.
• Support thermal testing activities from component-level through assembly.
• Support thermal environmental qualification testing.
• Support proposal development and technical reviews.
• Ensure compliance with mission requirements and standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for seamless integration.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster technical excellence.

Skills

Thermal design and analysis

ESATAN‑TMS

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering

Tools

CAD tools

Job description

Job Title: Principal Thermal Engineer
Location: Stevenage
Pay Rate: Up to £50p/h
Contract Length: 12 Months - Likely To Extend

Responsibilities

• Lead thermal design and analysis activities for spacecraft subsystems and components.
• Develop and validate thermal models using ESATAN‑TMS.
• Define thermal control strategies including passive and active systems (e.g., MLI, heat pipes, radiators, heaters).
• Support thermal testing activities from component‑level through full spacecraft assembly.
• Support thermal environmental qualification testing (TVAC), including test planning and data review.
• Support proposal development and technical reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR).
• Ensure compliance with mission requirements, standards, and customer specifications.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including avionics, mechanical, propulsion, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Manage and provide mentorship to junior engineers and foster technical excellence across the team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical or Thermal Engineering, or related field.
• Experience in thermal engineering within the space industry.
• Proficiency in thermal analysis software and CAD tools, especially ESATAN‑TMS.
• Strong understanding of space thermal environments and heat transfer mechanisms.
• Experience with thermal testing and instrumentation.
• Knowledge of thermal coatings and materials for space applications.
• Experience with flight hardware development and qualification.
• Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team‑oriented environment.

Desired Skills

• Experience with common space standards (ECSS, MIL, etc), and associated tailoring.