Senior Thermal-Mechanical Engineer - Aerospace Communications & Space Electronics

NOKIA; Plano (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Nokia is seeking a Senior Thermal-Mechanical Engineer in Plano, TX to lead the design and integration of aerospace and space communications equipment. The role focuses on RF systems, high-density electronics, and SpaceVPX/VNX packaging.

You will perform thermal/structural analyses, develop heat sinks and cold plates, and collaborate across RF, electrical, and systems teams. TVAC and qualification testing are required, with mentorship for junior engineers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 7+ years of aerospace-focused thermal-mechanical experience.
• Expertise in thermal management of electronic, RF, and communications equipment.
• Hands-on experience with SpaceVPX, VNX, and VPX architectures.
• Proficiency in ANSYS or Abaqus for thermal/structural analysis.
• Experience with TVAC, thermal cycling, shock and vibration tests.
• Strong GD&T knowledge and manufacturing process awareness.
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead thermal-mechanical architecture and detailed design for aerospace communications equipment, with a focus on RF systems.
• Design thermal management solutions for high-power RF amplifiers, processors, and other high-density electronics.
• Develop mechanical packaging and thermal solutions for SpaceVPX and VNX-based systems, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Perform thermal, structural, and thermo-mechanical analysis, including steady-state and transient thermal analysis, and modal analysis.
• Design and optimize heat sinks, cold plates, and thermal interface materials to enhance heat dissipation.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Lead and support TVAC, shock, and vibration qualification testing.
• Take ownership of hardware development, from concept to production, ensuring timely and successful project delivery.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership.

Skills

Thermal management

Structural analysis

RF systems design

SpaceVPX/VNX knowledge

FEA

GD&T

TVAC testing

Leadership

Mentoring

Manufacturing processes

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

The Senior Thermal-Mechanical Engineer will play a crucial role in our team, leading the development and integration of aerospace and space communications equipment. With a primary focus on RF communications, this role involves designing thermal-mechanical solutions for high-performance electronics, including SpaceVPX/VITA-based systems. The successful candidate will have extensive experience in thermal management, structural analysis, and environmental qualification, ensuring our equipment meets the demanding requirements of aerospace and space environments.

• Lead thermal-mechanical architecture and detailed design for aerospace communications equipment, with a focus on RF systems.
• Design thermal management solutions for high-power RF amplifiers, processors, and other high-density electronics.
• Develop mechanical packaging and thermal solutions for SpaceVPX and VNX-based systems, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Perform thermal, structural, and thermo-mechanical analysis, including steady-state and transient thermal analysis, and modal analysis.
• Design and optimize heat sinks, cold plates, and thermal interface materials to enhance heat dissipation.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams, including RF, electrical, and systems engineers, to ensure seamless integration.
• Lead and support TVAC, shock, and vibration qualification testing, ensuring our equipment meets the highest standards.
• Take ownership of hardware development, from concept to production, ensuring timely and successful project delivery.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field is required.
• 7+ years of relevant thermal-mechanical or mechanical engineering experience, with a strong focus on aerospace or space applications.
• Expertise in thermal management of electronic, RF, and communications equipment is essential.
• Hands-on experience with SpaceVPX, VNX, and VPX architectures is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in FEA and thermal analysis tools, such as ANSYS or Abaqus, is a must.
• Demonstrated experience in TVAC, thermal cycling, shock, and vibration qualification testing.
• Strong understanding of mechanical packaging, GD&T, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with RF, electrical, and systems engineers.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with a track record of delivering complex engineering projects.
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency (Green Card) is strongly preferred, with authorization to work in the U.S.