Thermal Engineer

Thermal Engineer, Structures Seal Beach, CA – full time – onsite. Job Description AstroForge is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Thermal Engineer to play a crucial role in the design and operation of our deep‑space mining spacecraft. The Engineer will architect the thermal management systems from concept through detailed design, analysis, and testing. This role requires a strong understanding of spacecraft thermal principles, excellent problem‑solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to develop innovative thermal solutions that ensure mission success. Responsibilities Architect the end‑to‑end thermal control system for deep space mining spacecraft, including subsystems such as radiators, multi‑layer insulation, heaters, sensors, and thermal coatings. Conduct high‑level conceptual trades to evaluate architectural options based on mission requirements, environmental conditions, and system performance. Develop and execute thermal vacuum, bake‑out, and other environmental tests to validate thermal design performance against predictions. Apply “test‑like‑you‑fly” principles to ensure test setups accurately simulate the operational environment. Analyze test data and correlate results with thermal models to refine design. Collaborate closely with structural, electrical, propulsion, and mission operations teams to understand system‑level thermal constraints and interfaces. Participate in thermal trades to optimize overall spacecraft design and operational strategies to achieve mission objectives while maintaining thermal integrity. Document all thermal analysis, design decisions, test plans, and results in clear and concise reports. Establish and improve internal tools and processes to streamline thermal design iterations, enhance efficiency, and ensure knowledge capture within the team. Provide constructive technical and non‑technical feedback to peers during design reviews and contribute to improving key company processes. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline such as Aerospace, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering, or related field. Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in spacecraft thermal conceptual and detailed design, development, and operations. Familiarity with spacecraft environments, including vacuum, solar radiation, and deep‑space temperatures. Strong understanding of fundamental heat‑transfer principles and thermodynamics. Demonstrated ability to perform thermal analysis, including hand calculations and basic modeling. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly. Ability to work onsite in Seal Beach, CA. Preferred Skills and Experience 5+ years of experience in spacecraft thermal conceptual and detailed design, development, and operations. Experience with CAD and thermal modeling tools for 3D and reduced‑order modeling, including NX and Simcenter Space Systems Thermal (or similar). Benefits 100% paid medical, dental, and life insurance coverage. Vision and FSA benefits available. 3 weeks of PTO + 1 week of sick time. 10 paid holidays. Retirement savings plan – 401(k) with company match. Equity on the ground floor of a startup. Salary LevelII:$97,250–$108,500 LevelIII:$106,250–$122,500 LevelIV:$120,250–$148,500 ITAR Requirements To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, you must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee under 8U.S.C. §1157, or asylee under 8U.S.C. §1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Government. #J-18808-Ljbffr