Life Support Systems (LSS) Thermal Engineer

Axiom Space; United States; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Axiom Space is seeking an experienced LSS Thermal Engineer to aid in developing thermal-fluid systems for the Axiom Station. This role focuses on the design, development, and operation of thermal systems for spaceflight hardware, supporting low-Earth orbit missions.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical or aerospace engineering with over 13 years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include leading thermal system designs and collaborating across teams to ensure integration meets mission goals.

Qualifications

• 13+ years’ experience working on thermal systems or similar roles.
• Experience with thermal hardware such as radiators and heat exchangers.
• Hands-on experience building and integrating hardware.

Responsibilities

• Own design, development, integration, and verification of thermal systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet mission requirements.
• Generate and review CAD models and engineering schematics.

Skills

Thermal systems design and analysis

Fluid mechanics

Heat transfer principles

Problem-solving

Space environment knowledge

Education

B.S. Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

Tools

NX

Creo

Solidworks

ANSYS Fluent

Python

Job description

Position Summary

We are looking for a resilient, high‑energy, experienced LSS Thermal Engineer, who will primarily be responsible for aiding Axiom’s Environmental Control & Life Support Systems (ECLSS) team with the development, maturation, and operation of thermal‑fluid spaceflight hardware to support the Axiom Station. This role will develop, iterate, and mature thermal system designs for low‑Earth orbit environments by owning product delivery timelines through concept, design, fabrication, assembly, launch, on‑orbit operation, and on‑orbit services. This position reports to the Life Support Systems Manager. The role is onsite and will be based at our Space Station Development Facility (SSDF).

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Define and create modern space station thermal‑fluid system standards and practices, driving Axiom to the forefront of station production and operation
• Own design, development, integration, and verification of thermal‑fluid hardware for crewed spaceflight applications
• Lead design and production reviews internally and externally with suppliers and customers
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (Stress, avionics, manufacturing) to ensure proper integration and meet mission requirements
• Lead thermal system trade studies and architecture decisions balancing performance, reliability, manufacturability, operability, schedule, and cost
• Perform thermal‑fluid system sizing and analysis for thermal‑fluid hardware (radiators, pumps, heat exchangers, cold plates, accumulators, valves, regulators, lines, manifolds, and thermal interfaces)
• Establish an efficient product lifecycle starting in the supply chain all the way through final integration that balances cost, complexity, and quality
• Generate and/or review CAD models, engineering schematics, drawings, analysis, assessments, and procedures for components, assemblies, and integrated assembly
• Develop and review thermal mathematical models and simulations to predict steady‑state and transient thermal performance across all mission phases
• Conduct thermal‑fluid analyses including pressure drop calculations, flow balancing, heat transfer assessments, fluid network modeling, and system performance characterization
• Validate designs by analysis or test, building development articles as needed
• Support the manufacturing and assembly of hardware in the facility and through on‑orbit operation
• Communicate project progress, status, and potential issues to stakeholders and leadership
• Implement and maintain agile project management methodologies throughout the project lifecycle
• Perform additional job duties as assigned

Qualifications

• B.S. Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field required
• 13+ years’ experience working on thermal systems, or similar role preferred
• Hands‑on experience building, testing, assembling, and/or integrating hardware
• Experience designing & analysing thermal systems (heat exchangers, radiators, cold plates) or fluid components (valves, regulators, pumps, lines, manifolds)
• Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and thermodynamics
• Strong understanding of space environments (grounding/bonding, thermal, vacuum, regolith) and how they affect design decisions
• Experience in defining and implementing engineering standards, processes, and practices
• Proficiency with mechanical design tools (NX, Creo, or Solidworks) and test analysis tools (Python, or equivalent)
• Track record of delivering outcomes in ambiguous, fast‑moving environments
• Uses good judgement to solve problems proactively, positively impacting hard challenges
• Proven to deliver high‑quality results under tight deadlines
• Familiarity with flight hardware development and certification is preferred
• Knowledge of NASA or commercial space program standards is preferred
• Experience with CFD, FEA, or thermal modeling tools such as ANSYS Fluent, Star‑CCM+, Thermal Desktop, SINDA/Fluint is preferred
• Experience integrating mechanical and electrical systems, including sensors, harness routing, connectors, and control hardware is preferred
• Core Skills: passion for space and the mission; entrepreneurial, growth mindset; high EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross‑functionally; tech‑solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster
• Core Competencies: accountability, technical rigor, execution discipline, pride of delivery

Work Environment

Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.

Physical Requirements

• Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time)
• May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time)

Export Control Requirements

This position may require access to export‑controlled technical data or technology subject to NASA regulations, International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). In accordance with U.S. export‑control laws, final candidates may be required to undergo additional export‑control screening to determine eligibility for access. Meeting these requirements is a condition of employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.