Senior Thermal Engineer

AST SpaceMobile; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer to ensure thermal performance and integrity of its space-based communications system. The role focuses on on-orbit operations, analysis, and anomaly resolution within cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in spacecraft thermal engineering, knowledge of thermal modeling/tools, and basic programming skills. Travel domestically and internationally may be required as the program evolves.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a spacecraft thermal engineer or in a closely related role.
• Master’s degree or higher preferred.
• Basic programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar).

Responsibilities

• Lead on-orbit thermal support activities for spacecraft systems.
• Define thermal fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) limits and automated responses across configurations.
• Lead troubleshooting and anomaly resolution efforts in collaboration with the broader thermal engineering team.
• Support development of spacecraft concepts of operations (CONOPS) to ensure thermal safety during all mission phases.
• Establish and improve processes for monitoring and analyzing on-orbit thermal telemetry data.
• Serve as a liaison between thermal, flight operations, and software engineering teams.
• Perform thermal modeling and analysis using industry-standard tools.
• Support spacecraft and subsystem-level thermal testing activities.
• Contribute to ongoing improvements in thermal design, processes, and operational strategies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Independent worker

Detail-oriented

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

Thermal Desktop

Python

MATLAB

Job description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today’s five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Thermal Engineer to support the thermal performance and integrity of a cutting-edge space-based communications system. This role will focus on on-orbit thermal operations, analysis, and anomaly resolution, ensuring safe and efficient spacecraft performance. The ideal candidate is innovative, detail-oriented, and experienced in working both independently and within cross-functional engineering teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on-orbit thermal support activities for spacecraft systems
• Define thermal fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) limits and automated responses across configurations
• Lead troubleshooting and anomaly resolution efforts in collaboration with the broader thermal engineering team
• Support development of spacecraft concepts of operations (CONOPS) to ensure thermal safety during all mission phases
• Establish and improve processes for monitoring and analyzing on-orbit thermal telemetry data
• Serve as a liaison between thermal, flight operations, and software engineering teams
• Perform thermal modeling and analysis using industry-standard tools
• Support spacecraft and subsystem-level thermal testing activities
• Contribute to ongoing improvements in thermal design, processes, and operational strategies

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field

Experience

A minimum of 5 years of experience as a spacecraft thermal engineer or in a closely related role

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• Experience in fast-paced or high-growth technical environments
• Basic programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar)

Soft Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of tasks
• Adaptability in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in analysis and deliverables

Technology Stack

• Thermal analysis tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop or similar)
• Engineering data analysis tools and telemetry systems
• General programming/scripting tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or equivalent)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to occasionally support testing activities in lab or operational settings
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as required

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.