Thermal Engineer

TN United Kingdom; Forres; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative micro-launch company is looking for a Thermal Engineer to join their dynamic team in Forres, Scotland. This position involves conducting thermal analysis and developing models for launch vehicles, contributing to groundbreaking projects in environmentally friendly propulsion technology. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and initiative, the role offers an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced startup environment. The ideal candidate will have a background in thermal engineering, experience with analytical tools, and a passion for space technology. Join this forward-thinking company and help shape the future of launch systems!

Benefits

34 days paid holiday

Pension scheme

Cycle-to-work scheme

Employee assistance

Life insurance

Relocation support

Visa assistance

Accommodation support

Allowances

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in thermal engineering and analysis.
• Experience with thermal testing and model correlation.

Responsibilities

• Develop thermal models for predicting launch vehicle environments.
• Conduct thermal testing, develop specifications, and report findings.

Skills

Thermal Engineering

Thermal Analysis

Communication Skills

Report Writing

MATLAB

Python

Visual Basic

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Master’s degree in Engineering

Tools

Thermal Desktop

ESATAN

Thermica

Job description

Orbex is seeking a Thermal Engineer to join their team to conduct thermal analysis for the Orbex Prime Launch vehicle.

The ideal candidate will have experience with launch vehicles, Thermal Desktop, and/or cryogenic systems. We are open to considering qualified graduates and junior engineers for this position.

About Orbex

Orbex is a leading micro-launch company with launch vehicles being prepared to launch from Scotland. We have secured over €158m/£133m in project financing, have signed up customers, submitted a launch license application, and received backing from organizations including UKSA and ESA. Our team is based in Forres, Scotland, and Copenhagen, Denmark, working on innovative rocket fuel technology, reusable systems, and environmentally friendly propulsion solutions.

Position Responsibilities

• Develop thermal models for predicting launch vehicle and subsystem environments.
• Design, develop, specify, manufacture, and test launch vehicle thermal management components.
• Conduct thermal testing, develop test specifications, supervise tests, and report findings.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline.
• 3-5 years of experience in thermal engineering and analysis.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Master’s degree in engineering.
• Experience with analytical tools such as Thermal Desktop, ESATAN, Thermica.
• Knowledge of spacecraft and launch vehicle thermal environments.
• Good communication and report writing skills.
• Experience with thermal testing and model correlation.

Desirable Skills

• Thermal modelling of cryogenic systems and fluid networks.
• Skills in MATLAB, Visual Basic, or Python.
• Experience with thermal protection systems and industry standards.

Personality and Environment

Orbex is a fast-paced startup culture encouraging responsibility, initiative, open communication, and collaboration in a diverse, international environment.

Location

This role is based in Forres, Scotland, at Orbex’s headquarters, near Inverness, with access to outdoor and adventure activities.

Security and Benefits

You must be a UK or European citizen or from a country signatory to the MTCR. UK BPSS checks may be required.

Benefits include a salary of £32,200-£50,000, 34 days paid holiday, pension scheme, cycle-to-work, employee assistance, life insurance, and relocation support including visa assistance, accommodation, and allowances.