Thermal Engineer: Spacecraft Thermal Design & On-Orbit

York Space Systems; Greenwood Village (CO); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

York Space Systems is seeking a Thermal Engineer to design and analyze spacecraft thermal systems to keep components within limits across missions.

The role emphasizes hands-on thermal analysis, hardware collaboration, and development of tools using Thermal Desktop to model environments and optimize designs. Strong communication and teamwork are essential to work with cross-functional groups and suppliers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering is required.
• Master’s degree is preferred.
• 2+ years in spacecraft thermal engineering with analysis, design, or testing.
• Experience with Thermal Desktop is strongly preferred.
• Solid understanding of heat transfer and thermodynamics.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive thermal analyses to determine radiator and heater sizing, select coatings, and ensure thermal limits.
• Collaborate with hardware developers to select materials, processes, and testing protocols.
• Establish and manage thermal interfaces among subsystems for compatibility.
• Communicate thermal requirements to suppliers and contractors for compliance.
• Design and implement test and verification plans for thermal validation.
• Coordinate across engineering on design improvements.
• Interface with programs and customers on high-level and detailed design needs.
• Support peers through reviews to ensure best practices are followed.

Skills

Thermal analysis

Thermal design

Spacecraft thermal engineering

Thermal testing

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Thermal Desktop

Job description

York Space Systems is seeking a Thermal Engineer to design and analyze spacecraft thermal systems to keep components within limits across missions.

The role emphasizes hands-on thermal analysis, hardware collaboration, and development of tools using Thermal Desktop to model environments and optimize designs. Strong communication and teamwork are essential to work with cross-functional groups and suppliers.