Entry-Level Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Cedarparktexasedc; Cedar Park (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Firefly Aerospace is seeking a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I to join our Texas team. You will help develop thermal models, run analyses, and support testing to ensure reliability across launch vehicles and space systems.

Ideal candidates have a B.S. in a related field and 0–3 years of experience, plus familiarity with Thermal Desktop, ANSYS, or similar tools. Strong communication and teamwork are essential to collaborate across engineering disciplines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's in aerospace, mechanical, physics or related field.
• 0–3 years of relevant engineering experience.
• Fundamental heat transfer principles.
• Familiarity with simulation software listed.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Support development of spacecraft thermal models under guidance from senior engineers.
• Perform thermal analyses using established methods and document assumptions, inputs, and results.
• Assist with subsystem and vehicle thermal trade studies.
• Create and maintain Thermal Desktop models and supporting analytical tools.
• Support thermal vacuum testing by preparing models, reviewing test data, and correlating analytical predictions.
• Evaluate spacecraft thermal control hardware including MLI, coatings, heaters, insulation, and radiators.
• Work with propulsion, structures, avionics, GNC, and systems engineers to understand thermal interfaces.
• Present analysis results during internal design reviews and incorporate feedback.
• Continuously improve technical knowledge of spacecraft thermal engineering methods and tools.

Skills

Heat transfer

Python

MATLAB

Communication

Teamwork

Education

B.S. in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Thermal Desktop

ANSYS

COMSOL

Simcenter

Job description

Firefly Aerospace is seeking a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I to join our Texas team. You will help develop thermal models, run analyses, and support testing to ensure reliability across launch vehicles and space systems.

Ideal candidates have a B.S. in a related field and 0–3 years of experience, plus familiarity with Thermal Desktop, ANSYS, or similar tools. Strong communication and teamwork are essential to collaborate across engineering disciplines.