Senior Thermal Engineer

Senior Thermal Engineer

Spire

Munich, Germany

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Thermal Engineer to join our advanced Satellite Engineering team. In this exciting role, you will be responsible for the development, analysis, and verification of thermal control systems that ensure the reliability and performance of our spacecraft in extreme space environments. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams across Systems, Mechanical, and Electronics engineering to support the full lifecycle of satellite development - From conceptual design through launch and on-orbit operation. This position offers a unique opportunity to play a key role in delivering mission-critical thermal solutions; you'll solve complex analytical challenges, influence design decisions, and contribute to next-generation satellite platforms. 

The role will include the orbital thermal modelling as well as the design of the thermal control systems for the satellite. The ideal candidate will be able to work effectively as part of a fast-paced multidisciplinary team to achieve a common goal. They will have a hands-on, collaborative approach to problem solving, ensuring that projects are delivered on time with a critical attention to detail.

Scope of the role:

Orbital Thermal analysis of complete satellites using a combination of: 

• FEM Thermal Models;
• Lumped-parameter network models; 
• Historical telemetry;
• Thermal analysis and design of satellite payloads; 
• Selection of appropriate coatings, materials, and thermal control measures; 
• Prototyping and testing mechanical and electro-mechanical systems; 
• Preparation of detailed system documentation; 
• Analysis of thermo-elastic load cases; 
• Peer reviews of mechanical drawings;
• Qualification of satellite subsystems and full satellites;
• Providing production support to the manufacturing team; 
• Assisting other team members from multiple disciplines achieve their goals.

Key Skills:

• Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering or equivalent course or work experience;
• Experience with thermal modelling of satellites (using eg. Radian, ESATAN, Siemens NX TMG, Thermal Desktop etc.);
• Experience with common spacecraft thermal control measures (e.g. MLI, Thermal paints, heatpipes, radiators, cryo-cooling); 
• Mechanical analysis using hand calculations and FEA;
• Experience modelling mechanical systems in Excel, Matlab, or Python;
• Basic CAD modelling experience;
• Excellent written and verbal communication.

Preferred Skills:

• Thermal environmental testing (thermal, thermal-vacuum);
• Solidworks Simulation and Ansys Mechanical experience;
• Thermoelastic analysis of mechanical systems; 
• Design and drafting experience (preferably in Solidworks); 
• Basic software skills (C, python, scripting).

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