Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Responsibilities

• Work with multidisciplinary teams to reduce thermal risk and recommend mitigation strategies
• Translate spacecraft CONOPS into representative thermal design scenarios
• Develop thermal models of active and passive designs using numerical solutions and hand calculations
• Participate in spacecraft build and testing campaigns, including off-hours or on-call work
• Develop thermal verification test plans and correlate test results to model predictions
• Prepare technical documents and presentations for stakeholders
• Support Business Development activities including proposals and white papers
• Develop tools for concept trade studies and post-processing analysis

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering with a thermal focus
• 2+ years of experience for Level II or 5+ years for Level III in spacecraft thermal engineering
• Proficiency with Thermal Desktop
• Understanding of radiation and conduction heat transfer in space environments
• Deep understanding of orbital mechanics (MEO, LEO, GEO)
• Knowledge of spacecraft thermal design management and surface treatments
• Experience with thermal vacuum/ambient pressure testing and data acquisition systems
• Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, or Mathematica
• Experience with SolidWorks or other CAD software
• U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain DoD security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Science or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace engineering
• Experience with technical leadership or serving as a Subject Area Expert
• Experience with Engineering Review Boards and NCR resolution
• Experience with build integration and testing of propulsion, thermal, electrical, and structural systems
• Experience in a production environment within the space/aerospace industry

Benefits

• 100% Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) Match
• Flexible Time Off (FTO)
• Education Reimbursement
• Competitive Paid Parental Leave

About the Company

Terran Orbital is a leading manufacturer of satellite products primarily serving the aerospace and defense industries, providing end-to-end satellite solutions from design to on-orbit support.