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Thermal Engineer - Spacecraft

Associates Systems LLC, Houston, TX, United States


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

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