Senior Thermal Engineer - Spacecraft Systems
Portal Space Systems
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Thermal Engineer with extensive experience in spacecraft thermal control systems, particularly in thermal design, analysis and testing of satellite components and systems. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated successful on-orbit operation of their designs.
Responsibilities
- Design and develop spacecraft thermal control systems including passive and active solutions.
- Perform thermal modeling, simulation, and analysis using Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT.
- Generate and maintain thermal models across multiple mission phases.
- Collaborate closely with systems engineering, mechanical design, and electrical engineering teams to ensure cohesive spacecraft development
- Define, manage and maintain thermal requirements for spacecraft subsystems and components.
- Lead thermal design reviews and support systems engineering trade studies.
- Plan and execute thermal balance and thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing.
- Correlate thermal models to TVAC testing and in-orbit data.
- Support hardware procurement, spacecraft integration and environmental qualification activities.
- Contribute to the development of thermal documentation including analysis reports, test plans, and procedures.
Basic Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline
- 5+ years of experience designing and analyzing thermal systems for spacecraft or satellites
- Proficiency in industry-standard thermal analysis tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT, Ansys Mechanical)
- Strong understanding of orbital thermal environments and space mission thermal challenges.
- Demonstrated experience with spacecraft-level thermal design, modeling, and verification.
- Excellent communication and documentation skills.
Preferred skills & Experience
- Experience supporting LEO and GEO mission designs.
- Hands-on experience with thermal vacuum testing and flight hardware validation
- Familiarity with space industry standards and guidelines (e.g., SMC-S-016, NASA GEVS, ECSS)
- Advanced knowledge of Thermal Desktop, including FloCAD and TD Direct.
- Programming experience using Python and OpenTD.
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at Portal. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage. Portal is planning to establish future access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and various other discounts and perks. Employees typically have 2-3 weeks of paid vacation per year plus company holidays.
ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, the applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.