Thermal Systems Engineer
1 week ago
The Aerospace Corporation stands as a premier partner to the nation's space initiatives, tackling complex challenges and delivering unparalleled technical proficiency. As a key operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we engage comprehensively across various dimensions of space—offering innovative solutions that encompass satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial sectors.
We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, where every employee can contribute to a mission that transcends individual aspirations.
Position Overview
The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) is pivotal in generating the concepts and data that drive current and future systems, providing cutting-edge research and development; technical assessments during acquisition; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, testing; and operational support. Our team, primarily composed of highly skilled mechanical and aerospace engineers, offers national expertise in vehicle engineering, guidance, navigation, controls, robotics, electro-mechanical devices, embedded systems, fluid mechanics, propulsion, thermal management, orbital mechanics, mechanisms, structures, structural dynamics, and dynamic environments.
The Thermal Control Department consists of seasoned engineers with extensive knowledge in the design and analysis of spacecraft thermal management systems at both component and system levels. This department conducts technical studies, experimental investigations, and real-time assessments to guide critical decisions made by our clients and their contractors.
As a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer (Engineering Specialist / Senior Engineering Specialist - Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering), you will possess a robust foundation in heat transfer and thermal engineering disciplines, specifically their applications in space systems. Direct experience in thermal design and management of spacecraft is essential. You will support both classified and unclassified spacecraft initiatives, with a focus on classified systems. The ideal candidate will champion optimal solutions, best practices, and innovative approaches to address critical thermal management challenges across the organization.
Work Arrangement
This is a full-time role offering a hybrid work model that combines regular onsite workdays with remote flexibility as business needs dictate.
Key Responsibilities
- Engage with internal program offices representing defense and civil agencies, including the U.S. Space Force, the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and NASA.
- Collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to identify, monitor, and resolve design, workmanship, and performance challenges related to thermal control subsystems for space vehicles and payloads.
- Serve as the thermal subject matter expert, leading and conducting analyses, modeling, simulations, experimental investigations, and assessments of designs related to spacecraft thermal control systems and components.
- Strategically manage departmental knowledge and capabilities in thermal systems engineering, analysis, design, and control hardware.
- Provide technical leadership in thermal engineering to teams of two or more, supporting programs, inter-departmental projects, and broad engagement initiatives.
Qualifications for Success
Minimum requirements for the Engineering Specialist - Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering include:
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or a closely related field with a focus on heat transfer or thermal sciences.
- A minimum of eight years of thermal engineering experience.
- Experience in the design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, and operation of spacecraft thermal control systems across all relevant heat transfer modes.
- Proficiency with SINDA/FLUINT and Thermal Desktop software; familiarity with other relevant software such as TSS, EES, SolidWorks, SpaceClaim, CAMEO, and scripting languages like FORTRAN and Python.
- Experience with thermal vacuum (TVAC), thermal cycling, and other environmental testing programs.
- Demonstrated initiative and leadership skills, with a proven track record of managing effective engineering teams.
- Willingness to travel to customer or contractor facilities approximately 10% of the time.
- This position requires a current and active Secret security clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.
In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Senior Engineering Specialist - Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering include:
- At least 12 years of thermal engineering experience.
- Experience providing thermal engineering support at a system level for at least three different spacecraft programs.
- Experience leading integrated-team thermal engineering efforts involving multiple stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications
It would be advantageous if you possess:
- An advanced degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or a closely related field with a focus on heat transfer or thermal sciences.
- Over 15 years of direct spacecraft thermal engineering experience.
- In-depth knowledge of cryogenics, two-phase thermophysics, or thermodynamics.
- Experience in adjacent engineering disciplines for spaceflight hardware.
- A current and active TS/SCI clearance.
We offer a competitive compensation package, rewarding performance and recognizing the value you bring to our organization. The salary range for this position is based on various factors, including education, experience, knowledge, and skills.
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy emphasizes that every employee can demonstrate leadership, regardless of their role. We seek individuals who:
- Operate Strategically
- Lead Change
- Engage with Impact
- Foster Innovation
- Deliver Results
Employee Benefits
During the interview process, our team will share details about our industry-leading benefits, which may include:
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
- Paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation
- Flexible work schedules, including telework options
- 401(k) Plan with company-paid benefits based on years of service
- Professional development programs
- Education assistance programs
- An inclusive work environment built on teamwork and respect
We value diversity and believe that a varied workforce fosters an environment where unique ideas flourish and differing perspectives are appreciated, leading to superior customer solutions.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on various protected characteristics.
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