Senior Thermal Engineer

At ClearSpace, we believe in reusability, in affordability driving disruption, and that no progress is real unless it is sustainable.

Our company was founded in 2018 out of the realization that in-orbit servicing and space debris removal are vital services for the future of space exploration and operations. Today ClearSpace has assembled an expert engineering team and is leading the way toward sustainable space operations. From a garage in Switzerland, we now operate across UK and Europe, and are working with world-leading institutions and companies to bring our dream of a sustainable space ecosystem to life.

Motivated to join us and make a difference beyond earth? We are currently looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer to join the team.

The Role

As a Senior Thermal Engineer, you will lead the thermal design, analysis, and testing of spacecraft systems and components. You’ll be responsible for developing thermal models, defining control strategies, and ensuring compliance with mission requirements. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams and mentoring junior engineers to drive technical excellence. You will also support environmental qualification testing and contribute to proposal and review processes throughout the project lifecycle.

Responsibilities 

• Lead thermal design and analysis activities for spacecraft subsystems and components.


• Develop and validate thermal models using ESATAN-TMS.


• Define thermal control strategies including passive and active systems (e.g., MLI, heat pipes, radiators, heaters).


• Support thermal testing activities from component-level through full spacecraft assembly.


• Support thermal environmental qualification testing (TVAC), including test planning and data review.


• Support proposal development and technical reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR).


• Ensure compliance with mission requirements, standards, and customer specifications.


• Collaborate with cross functional teams, including avionics, mechanical, propulsion, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration.


• Manage and provide mentorship to junior engineers and foster technical excellence across the team.


• Responsible for maintaining documentation, including design specifications, test plans, performance reports and ICDs.

Must Have

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or related field


• Minimum 10 years of experience in thermal engineering within the space industry


• Proficiency in ESATAN-TMS and thermal analysis software


• Strong understanding of space thermal environments and heat transfer mechanisms


• Experience with thermal testing and instrumentation


• Knowledge of thermal coatings and materials for space applications


• Experience with flight hardware development and qualification 


• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills


• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment
  

Nice to Have

• Experience with other thermal analysis tools


• Experience with CubeSats or small satellite platforms


• Experience working with international space agencies


• Familiarity with ECSS standards 


• Creativity to find innovative solutions
  

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