Senior Thermal Analyst

Intuitive Machines; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Intuitive Machines in Houston, TX is seeking a Thermal Analysis Engineer to conduct detailed thermal analyses of spacecraft and aerospace systems, using Thermal Desktop and related tools. You will assess thermal behavior across mission phases and help develop robust thermal models.

You will design and optimize thermal control systems, plan and execute TVAC testing, and collaborate with design, systems, and test teams to integrate thermal strategies throughout the spacecraft lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven experience in aerospace thermal analysis; experience with Thermal Desktop or similar tools preferred.
• Proficient in thermal modeling, simulation, and application of heat transfer principles.
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards for thermal control systems and space environments.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to contribute to multidisciplinary projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Flexible and adaptable to shifting project priorities and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed thermal analyses of spacecraft and aerospace systems using tools such as Thermal Desktop.
• Analyze and predict thermal behavior of components and systems across various mission phases.
• Develop and refine thermal models for spacecraft components, subsystems, and entire vehicles under varied space environments.
• Design andoptimizethermal control systems (e.g., radiators, heat pipes, insulation) to meet mission-specific requirements.
• Plan and execute thermal testing campaigns (e.g., TVAC), analyze results, and correlate test data with thermal models.
• Collaborate with design, systems, and test engineering teams to integrate thermal strategies throughout the spacecraft lifecycle.
• Generate thermal documentation, including analysis reports, specifications, and test plans for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in aerospace thermal control and contribute to process improvements.

Skills

Thermal analysis

Thermal modeling

Heat transfer

Aerospace engineering

Education

Bachelors in Aerospace Engineering

Masters in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in a related field

Tools

Thermal Desktop

Job description

About Intuitive Machines

Intuitive Machines is an innovative and cutting-edge space company making cislunar space accessible to both public and private customers. Our mission is to further science and exploration, communications, and economic progress from the Earth to the Moon and beyond. With multiple NASA lunar missions in development and additional private missions on our manifest, we pride ourselves in supporting NASA, our customers, and the nation in paving the way to return humans to the surface of the Moon. Our world-class team includes experts in all aspects of spacecraft subsystems design, development, and test, on-orbit operations, and safety.

Thermal Analysis Engineer

Houston, TX

About Intuitive Machines

Intuitive Machines is an innovative and cutting-edge space company making cislunar space accessible to both public and private customers. Our mission is to further science and exploration, communications, and economic progress from the Earth to the Moon and beyond. With multiple NASA lunar missions in development and additional private missions on our manifest, we pride ourselves in supporting NASA, our customers, and the nation in paving the way to return humans to the surface of the Moon. Our world-class team includes experts in all aspects of spacecraft subsystems design, development, and test, on-orbit operations, and safety.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed thermal analyses of spacecraft and aerospace systems using tools such as Thermal Desktop .
• Analyze and predict thermal behavior of components and systems across various mission phases.
• Develop and refine thermal models for spacecraft components, subsystems, and entire vehicles under varied space environments.
• Design andoptimizethermal control systems (e.g., radiators, heat pipes, insulation) to meet mission-specific requirements.
• Plan and execute thermal testing campaigns (e.g., TVAC), analyze results, and correlate test data with thermal models.
• Collaborate with design, systems, and test engineering teams to integrate thermal strategies throughout the spacecraft lifecycle.
• Generate thermal documentation, including analysis reports, specifications, and test plans for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in aerospace thermal control and contribute to process improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering , Mechanical Engineering , or a related field.
• Proven experience in aerospace thermal analysis; experience with Thermal Desktop or similar tools preferred.
• Proficient in thermal modeling, simulation, and application of heat transfer principles.
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards for thermal control systems and space environments.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to contribute to multidisciplinary projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Flexible and adaptable to shifting project priorities and deadlines.

US EEO Statement

Intuitive Machines is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.