Job Description
Job Description
Thermal Design Engineer
The Opportunity
Our client is seeking an exceptional Thermal Design Engineer to architect and lead the development of their heat shield's thermal protection system and spacecraft thermal management. As their first thermal engineer, you'll bridge the gap between hypersonic reentry analysis and spacecraft thermal design, solving complex challenges that have profound implications for the future of commercial spaceflight. This is a unique opportunity to :
- Design thermal protection systems that withstand extreme reentry environments
- Develop passive thermal control solutions for spacecraft operations
- Create integrated thermal models spanning orbital and reentry phases
- Work directly with technical leadership to shape the future of space transportation
- Support recruiting efforts to shape the engineering team as they grow
About This Client
Space is the bleeding edge for humanity's next industrial revolution. While reusable rockets have opened the door, true economic transformation requires infrastructure that makes orbit as accessible and reliable as air travel. Our client is building that future by developing the first reusable satellite platform with controlled return capability transforming space from a one-way street into a two-way highway for innovation and commerce. They are based in Denver, CO and believe in the power of in-person collaboration. They are onsite 5 days / week by default, but flexible when life requires it.
Why Join Them?
Pioneering Technology : They are developing the first reusable satellite platform with controlled return capability fundamentally transforming space from a one-way journey to a two-way highwayReal Impact : Your work will enable new industries in space manufacturing, research, and logistics while pioneering sustainable space infrastructureSpeed & Autonomy : They maintain parallel hardware development streams and empower engineers to innovate rapidly while upholding rigorous aerospace standardsWorld-Class Team : Work alongside experts from leading aerospace companies and research institutions, building technology that will reshape humanity's access to spaceThe Role
You'll lead the thermal design and analysis of our heat shield and all spacecraft systems, including :
Managing technical interfaces with aerothermal teams for reentry analysisDeveloping and validating thermal models for both orbital and reentry phasesDesigning thermal protection systems for hypersonic reentry conditionsCreating spacecraft thermal control systems for extended orbital operationsLeading material selection and qualification for thermal protection systemsDriving execution of development, qualification and acceptance test campaignsCollaborating with mechanical and electrical teams on thermal design criteriaWorking with vendors to develop custom thermal protection materials and componentsRequired Qualifications
BS in Mechanical Engineering or related file8 years of spacecraft thermal engineering experienceProven track record designing and qualifying thermal control systems through multiple successful missionsStrong understanding of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and thermal analysis tooFundamental understanding of mechanical and electrical first principles and design methodologies outside the therm domainExperience with thermal modeling software (Thermal Desktop or similar)Expertise in spacecraft thermal control techniques and technologiesDemonstrated ability to excel in dynamic, high-stakes engineering environmentsDesired Experience
MS in Mechanical Engineering or related fieDirect experience with hypersonic vehicle or reentry system thermal analysisBackground in thermal protection system design and testingExperience with aerothermal analysis tools (FIAT, CBAERO or similar)Early-stage startup experienceAdditional Information
Salary Range : $140,000 - $180,000 (based on qualifications)Early Team EquityMedical / Dental / Vision Coverage401(k) PlanTo conform to U.S. Government export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.About AdAstra
This position is a direct hire, permanent placement for a client of AdAstra.
AdAstra's mission is building thriving teams within NewSpace, Defense Tech and CleanTech organizations.
Our commitment is to curate and close premier talent for our partners, achieved via specialized technical screening, personalized culture assessment, and high-touch candidate engagement. We are motivated to foster boundless team satisfaction and catalyze innovation for future generations, enabling inconceivable technology from Earth, to the stars.
Connect with us on LinkedIn : https : / / www.linkedin.com / company / adastrata
Salary : $140,000 - $180,000
