Spacecraft Thermal Analysis Engineer

Craig Technologies; Merritt Island (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Craig Technologies is seeking a Smoke-venting capable Thermal Analysis Engineer to join our team in Houston, TX and Merritt Island, FL. The role focuses on detailed thermal modeling, analysis, and environmental verification for spacecraft and aerospace systems destined for cislunar and lunar orbit missions.

The candidate will ensure components, payloads, and fully integrated vehicles survive extreme thermal extremes in deep space, alternating solar radiation and eclipse periods.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering with 3–5 years in aerospace thermal control systems.
• 3–5 years direct experience in spacecraft thermal modeling, simulation, and heat transfer principles.
• Proficiency with Thermal Desktop (SINDA/FLUINT) or equivalent tools.
• Familiarity with aerospace thermal design standards and orbital heating vectors.

Responsibilities

• Perform detailed thermal analyses of spacecraft systems across mission phases using Thermal Desktop or equivalent software.
• Model transient and steady-state thermal behavior of components under deep-space environmental loads.
• Develop high-fidelity thermal models and optimize thermal control architectures.
• Design and evaluate passive and active thermal control solutions including radiators, heat pipes, heaters, and MLI.
• Plan and execute TVAC environmental tests and analyze test telemetry to update models.
• Collaborate with design, structural, systems, and test teams to integrate thermal management strategies.
• Produce clear ITAR-compliant design analyses and environmental test plans for stakeholders.
• Stay current with emerging thermal control technologies and best practices.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Excellent communication

Adaptable mindset

Collaborative teamwork

Education

Bachelor/Master/PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Thermal Desktop (SINDA/FLUINT)

Job description

Craig Technologies is seeking a Smoke-venting capable Thermal Analysis Engineer to join our team in Houston, TX and Merritt Island, FL. The role focuses on detailed thermal modeling, analysis, and environmental verification for spacecraft and aerospace systems destined for cislunar and lunar orbit missions.

The candidate will ensure components, payloads, and fully integrated vehicles survive extreme thermal extremes in deep space, alternating solar radiation and eclipse periods.