Senior Thermal Engineer, Spacecraft & Satellite Thermal

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

Job summary

Actalent in Louisville, CO seeks a Thermal Engineer to lead design, analysis and development of spacecraft thermal systems. This contract-to-hire role focuses on ensuring hardware performs reliably in space environments across the lifecycle.

You will perform thermal analyses, build models with Thermal Desktop, and collaborate across mechanical, electrical and systems teams. 7+ years in aerospace, hands-on testing, and strong communication are required; familiarity with SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python

Qualifications

• 7+ years of thermal engineering experience, preferably in aerospace.
• Experience with Thermal Desktop and thermal modeling/analysis of space hardware.
• Knowledge of conduction, convection, and radiation heat transfer.
• Strong analytical 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 mission-critical aerospace programs.

Skills

Heat transfer knowledge

Thermal modeling/analysis

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace/Mechanical/Physics

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Thermal Desktop

SolidWorks

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Actalent in Louisville, CO seeks a Thermal Engineer to lead design, analysis and development of spacecraft thermal systems. This contract-to-hire role focuses on ensuring hardware performs reliably in space environments across the lifecycle.

You will perform thermal analyses, build models with Thermal Desktop, and collaborate across mechanical, electrical and systems teams. 7+ years in aerospace, hands-on testing, and strong communication are required; familiarity with SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python