Senior Thermal Analysis Engineer

Axiom Space; Houston, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Axiom Space seeks a Senior Thermal Analysis Engineer to develop and analyze thermal models of spacecraft components and systems using SINDA/FLUINT and Thermal Desktop. You will design thermal control solutions, select materials, and assess environmental impacts from space conditions, validating models with test data and documenting findings.

This role collaborates with cross-functional teams, participates in design reviews, and ensures compliance with NASA standards while reporting progress to

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in mechanical or chemical engineering or related field.
• 4+ years of equipment specification experience.
• 4+ years of spacecraft thermal analysis in space industry.

Responsibilities

• Develop and run thermal models for spacecraft components and systems.
• Design active and passive thermal control elements for subsystems.
• Select materials including thermal interface materials.
• Evaluate space environment effects on spacecraft and advise.
• Correlate test data with models and improve accuracy.
• Write reports and ensure NASA standard compliance.
• Participate in design reviews and provide recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and communicate progress.

Skills

Hand calculations

Spreadsheet calculations

Thermal testing

Thermal model validation

CAD software

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s in Mechanical or Chemical Eng

Tools

SINDA/FLUINT

Thermal Desktop

DraftSight

SolidWorks

SpaceClaim

Job description

Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth. Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow. Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com. Axiom Space fosters a diverse environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace.

SUMMARY

The Senior Thermal Analysis Engineer is responsible for developing and analyzing thermal models of spacecraft components and systems using tools like SINDA/FLUINT and Thermal Desktop. This role involves designing thermal control solutions for station subsystems and assemblies, selecting appropriate thermal materials, and assessing environmental impacts from space conditions. The engineer will validate models with test data, ensure compliance with NASA standards, and document technical findings. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and participation in design reviews are essential, along with providing regular project updates to stakeholders.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and run component and spacecraft thermal math models (using software like SINDA/FLUINT, Thermal Desktop) to predict spacecraft temperature distributions during different mission phases.
• Design active and passive thermal control elements for station subsystems as part of providing solutions to thermal problems.
• Select and specify thermal materials, including thermal interface materials.
• Evaluate the effects of external space environments (solar radiation, Earth albedo, planetary infrared, deep space cold) on the spacecraft and provide recommendations.
• Correlate test data with analytical models to improve accuracy.
• Write technical reports and document thermal analysis results.
• Ensure analysis compliance with NASA standards and requirements.
• Participate in internal and external design reviews and provide recommendations for thermal improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define project scope, goals, and deliverables.
• Communicate project progress, status, and potential issues to stakeholders and leadership.
• Perform additional job duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education & Experience Bachelor Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or higher or related field required 4+ years of experience in equipment specification or similar 4+ years of experience with spacecraft thermal analysis in the space industry
• Experienced with, and comfortable performing hand or spreadsheet calculations
• Experience with thermal testing and thermal math model validation
• Experience with MLI and DraftSight is desirable
• Experience in CAD software such as SolidWorks, Spaceclaim
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to address project challenges
• Demonstrated time management and organization skills to meet tight deadlines and quality objectives
• 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: Embody our core values of leadership, innovation, and teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following 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.

REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones
• 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)
• Equipment and Machines Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.)

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.

Axiom Space is building the world’s first commercial space station – Axiom Station. Serving as a cornerstone for sustained human presence in space, this next-generation orbital platform fosters groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity, and cultivates the vibrant, global space economy of tomorrow. Today, driven by the vision of leading humanity's journey off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services to the International Space Station and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and low-Earth orbit. Axiom Space is building era-defining space infrastructure that will empower our civilization to transcend Earth for the benefit of every human, everywhere.