Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Actalent; Louisville (CO); On-site; USD 90,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking an experienced Thermal Engineer to lead thermal design and analysis for spacecraft, satellites, and aerospace systems. You will develop thermal models, design thermal control solutions, and support TVAC testing to ensure reliability in space environments.

The role requires 7+ years in aerospace thermal engineering, strong Thermal Desktop expertise, and proficiency in heat transfer concepts. This is a fully onsite position based in Louisville, CO.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• 7+ years of thermal engineering experience, preferably in aerospace/space programs.
• Strong experience with Thermal Desktop and thermal modeling/analysis of space hardware.
• Knowledge of heat transfer: conduction, convection, radiation.
• Experience supporting thermal testing and validation activities.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform thermal analysis for spacecraft, satellites, and space hardware.
• Develop and maintain thermal models using Thermal Desktop.
• Design and evaluate thermal control solutions (insulation, radiators, heat pipes, heaters, coatings).
• Conduct orbital, transient, and thermal balance analyses.
• Support TVAC and environmental testing with data analysis and model correlation.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, systems, and manufacturing teams to optimize thermal performance.
• Support technical reviews and contribute to mission-critical aerospace programs.

Skills

Thermal analysis

Space hardware

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace/Mechanical/Physics

Masters degree preferred

Tools

Thermal Desktop

FloCAD

SolidWorks

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Actalent is seeking an experienced Thermal Engineer to lead thermal design and analysis for spacecraft, satellites, and aerospace systems. You will develop thermal models, design thermal control solutions, and support TVAC testing to ensure reliability in space environments.

The role requires 7+ years in aerospace thermal engineering, strong Thermal Desktop expertise, and proficiency in heat transfer concepts. This is a fully onsite position based in Louisville, CO.