Lead Thermal Engineer for Missile Systems

Castelion; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Castelion is seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer to own the thermal engineering methodology across missile systems. You will define thermal architectures, develop high‑fidelity models, and perform first‑principles analysis, simulation, and hardware testing to ensure reliability in demanding thermal environments.

You will work across aerodynamics, structures, electrical, propulsion, systems, manufacturing, and test engineering to deliver integrated thermal solutions from concept through flight.

Qualifications

• B.S. or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Applied Physics.
• Strong heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and high‑temperature environment knowledge.
• 5+ years of aerospace thermal engineering experience on rocket, spacecraft, aircraft, or missile programs.

Responsibilities

• Thermal design and analysis of unmanned air vehicles at conceptual, preliminary, and detailed design maturities.
• Define thermal system architectures and material selection strategies for demanding flight environments.
• Thermal analysis of flight vehicles using standard codes and hand methods.
• Transient thermal analysis for time‑varying mission profiles.
• Ground test planning, execution, and analysis in specialized facilities.
• Flight test planning, execution, and post‑flight thermal data analysis.
• Use first principles and MATLAB/Python models to inform design decisions.
• Collaborate with aerodynamics, structures, electrical, and systems engineers on integrated solutions.
• Present thermal status at formal reviews internally and with customers.
• Prepare formal documentation (specifications, test procedures, reports).

Skills

MATLAB

Python

Thermal analysis

SolidWorks

Siemens NX

Education

BS or higher in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering or Applied Physics

Tools

SolidWorks

Siemens NX

Job description

Castelion is seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer to own the thermal engineering methodology across missile systems. You will define thermal architectures, develop high‑fidelity models, and perform first‑principles analysis, simulation, and hardware testing to ensure reliability in demanding thermal environments.

You will work across aerodynamics, structures, electrical, propulsion, systems, manufacturing, and test engineering to deliver integrated thermal solutions from concept through flight.