Senior Thermal Engineer

Spire; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the aerospace sector is seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer for their Satellite Engineering team. The role focuses on developing thermal control systems for spacecraft, offering a unique opportunity to influence design decisions and contribute to cutting-edge satellite technology. Candidates should possess strong thermal modelling expertise and a degree in a relevant engineering discipline. Join Spire to tackle complex challenges and support the full lifecycle of satellite development.

Benefits

Generous Time Off Policy

Education Assistance Program

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Fitness Reimbursement

Healthy snacks & beverages in every office

Qualifications

• Experience with thermal modelling of satellites.
• Basic CAD modelling experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for development, analysis, and verification of thermal control systems.
• Conduct orbital thermal analysis of complete satellites.
• Prepare detailed system documentation.

Skills

Thermal modelling

Thermal analysis

Problem solving

Engineering collaboration

Communication

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering

Tools

Radian

ESATAN

Siemens NX TMG

Thermal Desktop

Solidworks

Ansys Mechanical

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Thermal Engineer to join our advanced Satellite Engineering team. In this exciting role, you will be responsible for the development, analysis, and verification of thermal control systems that ensure the reliability and performance of our spacecraft in extreme space environments. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams across Systems, Mechanical, and Electronics engineering to support the full lifecycle of satellite development - From conceptual design through launch and on-orbit operation. This position offers a unique opportunity to play a key role in delivering mission-critical thermal solutions; you'll solve complex analytical challenges, influence design decisions, and contribute to next-generation satellite platforms.

The role will include the orbital thermal modelling as well as the design of the thermal control systems for the satellite. The ideal candidate will be able to work effectively as part of a fast-paced multidisciplinary team to achieve a common goal. They will have a hands-on, collaborative approach to problem solving, ensuring that projects are delivered on time with a critical attention to detail.

Scope of the role:

• Orbital Thermal analysis of complete satellites using a combination of:

• FEM Thermal Models

• Lumped-parameter network models

• Historical telemetry

• Thermal analysis and design of satellite payloads

• Selection of appropriate coatings, materials, and thermal control measures

• Prototyping and testing mechanical and electro-mechanical systems

• Preparation of detailed system documentation

• Analysis of thermo-elastic load cases

• Peer reviews of mechanical drawings

• Qualification of satellite subsystems and full satellites

• Providing production support to the manufacturing team

• Assisting other team members from multiple disciplines achieve their goals

Basic Qualifications / Experience:

• Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering or equivalent course or work experience

• Experience with thermal modelling of satellites (using eg. Radian, ESATAN, Siemens NX TMG, Thermal Desktop etc.)

• Experience with common spacecraft thermal control measures (e.g. MLI, Thermal paints, heatpipes, radiators, cryo-cooling)

• Mechanical analysis using hand calculations and FEA

• Experience modelling mechanical systems in Excel, Matlab, or Python

• Basic CAD modelling experience

• Excellent written and verbal communication

Preferred Qualifications / Experience:

• Thermal environmental testing (thermal, thermal-vacuum)

• Solidworks Simulation and Ansys Mechanical experience

• Thermoelastic analysis of mechanical systems

• Design and drafting experience (preferably in Solidworks)

• Basic software skills (C, python, scripting)

Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position will require you to work a minimum of three days per week in the office.

Access to US export-controlled software and/or technology may be required for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licenses—this is not something candidates need to have before applying. #LI-DC1

Global Perks

️ Name Your Satellite Program (NYSP)
Launch Attendance
Generous Time Off Policy
Education Assistance Program
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
Family Leave
Fitness Reimbursement
Employee Referral Program
Healthy snacks & beverages in every office

About Spire

We improve life on Earth with data from space.

Spire Global is a space-to-cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi-purpose constellation of satellites. Its proprietary data and algorithms provide the most advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking in the world. In addition to its constellation, Spire’s data infrastructure includes a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real-time global coverage of every point on Earth.

Spire is Global and our success draws upon the diverse viewpoints, skills and experiences of our employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.

To help maintain a safe and secure workplace for Spire employees, all candidates who receive a conditional offer will be required to complete a background check. This may include criminal history and employment verification.

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