Thermal Engineer - Spacecraft

Associates Systems LLC; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in Houston, Texas seeks a candidate to lead thermal analysis efforts for spacecraft systems. The role involves developing thermal models, assessing system performance, and providing clear recommendations for thermal control systems. Ideal candidates will have experience with Thermal Desktop and strong knowledge of spacecraft thermal control hardware. Applicants should possess a relevant degree and experience within the aerospace industry.

Qualifications

• Ability to develop accurate thermal models.
• Proficiency in both analytical and numerical thermal analysis.
• Experience with the full engineering product lifecycle.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Responsibilities

• Lead thermal analysis efforts for spacecraft systems.
• Support thermal testing activities for spacecraft hardware.
• Develop clear recommendations for thermal control system design.
• Assess system performance and deliver recommendations.

Skills

Heat transfer

Thermodynamics

Fluid flow physics

Thermal/fluid analysis

Strong communication skills

Building relationships

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Bio‑mechanical, Aerospace Engineering or related field

Master’s degree in the same fields

PhD in the same fields

Tools

Thermal Desktop

FloCAD

SolidWorks

Job description

Position Overview

The selected candidate will lead thermal analysis efforts for spacecraft systems and components in a hands-on engineering environment. This role requires the ability to develop accurate thermal models, assess system performance, and deliver clear recommendations for the design and sizing of thermal control systems. The candidate will also support thermal testing activities for spacecraft hardware and integrated systems.

Basic Qualifications

• Strong understanding of heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid flow physics
• Proficiency in both analytical and numerical thermal/fluid analysis
• Working knowledge of spacecraft thermal control hardware such as radiators, pumped fluid loops, heat pipes, phase change materials (PCM), multi‑layer insulation (MLI), and sublimators
• Aerospace testing experience, including test plan development, familiarity with thermal test hardware, and understanding of instrumentation, data systems, and test data analysis
• Experience with the full engineering product lifecycle—from requirements development through design, manufacturing, testing, and operations
• Ability to assess designs and concepts and provide expert technical guidance to improve outcomes
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to build and maintain effective, positive working relationships
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (green card holder)

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated, in‑depth experience with Thermal Desktop, including FloCAD

Desired Qualifications

Candidates with the following additional experience will receive preference:

• Human thermal modeling and/or spacesuit thermal analysis
• Thermal control system design and analysis for spacesuits, spacecraft, launch vehicles, and/or missile systems
• Development of environmental control and life support systems (ECLSS) or related subsystems for spacecraft, spacesuits, aircraft, military platforms, or habitats
• Experience supporting NASA or other aerospace development programs
• Strong knowledge of heat exchangers, condensing/boiling heat exchangers, boilers, thermoelectric coolers, variable‑conductance heat pipes, and loop heat pipes
• CAD design experience, particularly with SolidWorks
• Experience collaborating across multi‑company and multi‑organizational development teams

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Bio‑mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or related field and 4 plus of relevant industry experience
• Master’s degree in the same fields and 3 plus years of relevant experience
• PhD in the same fields and 2plus years of relevant experience