Sr. FEA Engineer (Thermal and Structural)

Startup Engineer Role

TRL11 is a startup based in Irvine, CA developing novel video and imaging systems for spacecraft, enabling visual intelligence from the final frontier. TRL11 is looking for an engineer with experience in finite element analysis (FEA). This role will support primarily thermal but also structural and optical simulation, contribute to test plans and test execution, support systems engineering, and develop TRL11's end to end simulation capabilities. This role is an opportunity to have a large influence on TRL11's simulation practices, and is well suited to someone who is eager to dive in and contribute from day one.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain high-fidelity finite element models for both iterative design analysis and final verification sign-off
• Perform thermal analyses for on-orbit environments including solar loading, radiation, and internal heat dissipation
• Perform structural analyses for launch environments including quasi-static loads, vibration, and shock
• Execute coupled thermo-mechanical simulations to evaluate distortion and performance impacts, especially for optically sensitive systems
• Model thermal behavior driven by solar illumination angles, radiative exchange, and conductive heat paths
• Analyze thermal performance of electronic systems with a focus on heat rejection and maintaining operating temperature limits
• Correlate simulation models with test data from vibration, shock, thermal, and thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing
• Define simulation assumptions, boundary conditions, and methodologies consistent with aerospace and DoD program expectations
• Generate clear, defensible analysis reports to support design reviews, technical decisions, and program milestones
• Partner closely with mechanical, optical, and electrical engineers to drive design decisions through simulation insights
• Support definition of test plans and instrumentation to enable model validation and correlation
• Own and evolve simulation workflows, including meshing strategies, solver selection, and toolchain improvements