Spacecraft Thermal Analysis Engineer for Deep Space Missions

Socket.dev; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Craig Technologies in Houston, TX seeks an innovative Thermal Analysis Engineer to join our team. The role involves detailed thermal modeling, analysis, and environmental verification of spacecraft and aerospace systems destined for cislunar and lunar orbit missions.

You will ensure components and vehicles withstand extreme thermal conditions, collaborate across disciplines, and help advance space qualification workflows with rigorous testing and analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with 3–5 years of aerospace thermal experience.
• 3–5 years direct experience in spacecraft thermal modeling, simulation, and heat transfer principles (conduction, radiation, albedo).
• Proficiency with Thermal Desktop (SINDA/FLUINT) or equivalent aerospace thermal analysis tools.
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards for thermal design and space environment mitigations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed thermal analyses of spacecraft systems using Thermal Desktop or equivalent software.
• Analyze transient and steady-state thermal behavior under deep-space environmental loads.
• Develop, refine, and correlate high-fidelity thermal models for thermal control systems.
• Design, evaluate, and optimize passive and active thermal control components.
• Plan and execute environmental TVAC testing campaigns.
• Analyze test telemetry and update analytical models for flight prediction accuracy.
• Collaborate with design, structural, systems, and test teams across the spacecraft lifecycle.
• Generate clear thermal documentation and environmental test plans for stakeholders.

Skills

Analytical skills

Mathematical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering degree

Advanced degree (M.S./Ph.D.) preferred

Tools

Thermal Desktop (SINDA/FLUINT)

Job description

Craig Technologies in Houston, TX seeks an innovative Thermal Analysis Engineer to join our team. The role involves detailed thermal modeling, analysis, and environmental verification of spacecraft and aerospace systems destined for cislunar and lunar orbit missions.

You will ensure components and vehicles withstand extreme thermal conditions, collaborate across disciplines, and help advance space qualification workflows with rigorous testing and analysis.