Senior Thermal Engineer (Luxembourg or UK)

ClearSpace seeks a Senior Thermal Engineer to lead thermal design, analysis, and testing for spacecraft systems, supporting its mission in sustainable space operations and debris removal.

This position is responsible for directing the thermal engineering aspects of spacecraft subsystems and components. The role ensures that thermal strategies meet mission requirements while mentoring junior staff and collaborating with diverse engineering teams to achieve technical excellence.

Responsibilities

• Direct thermal design and analysis efforts for various spacecraft subsystems and individual parts.
• Create and verify thermal models utilizing ESATAN-TMS software.
• Establish thermal control approaches, incorporating both passive and active mechanisms.
• Assist in thermal testing phases, ranging from component-level checks to full spacecraft assembly validation.
• Contribute to thermal environmental qualification testing (TVAC), including planning and reviewing results.
• Participate in proposal preparation and technical reviews such as PDR, CDR, and TRR.
• Guarantee adherence to mission standards, regulatory requirements, and customer specifications.
• Work closely with avionics, mechanical, propulsion, and systems engineering groups.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior engineers to promote professional growth.
• Prepare and maintain essential documentation, including design specs, test plans, performance reports, and ICDs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• At least 10 years of professional experience in thermal engineering within the space sector.
• Demonstrated proficiency with ESATAN-TMS and other thermal analysis tools.
• Deep knowledge of space thermal environments and heat transfer principles.
• Hands-on experience with thermal testing procedures and instrumentation.
• Understanding of thermal coatings and materials suitable for space applications.
• Background in developing and qualifying flight hardware.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to documentation.
• Capacity to work autonomously and effectively within a team setting.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with thermal analysis tools beyond ESATAN-TMS.
• Prior work with CubeSats or small satellite platforms.
• Experience collaborating with international space agencies.
• Knowledge of ECSS standards.
• Creativity in developing innovative engineering solutions.

About the company

ClearSpace was established in 2018 to tackle challenges in in-orbit servicing and space debris removal. The organization emphasizes reusability, affordability, and sustainable practices in space operations. It is guided by an expert engineering team and collaborates with leading institutions and companies across the UK and Europe.

• The company is driven by an expert engineering leadership team.
• Operations span the UK and Europe, involving partnerships with world-leading institutions and companies.