Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Location: Albuquerque, NM

Position Type: Full-time

About Us: BlackVe, Inc is a dynamic and innovative national security-focused space company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering excellence for our exceptional customers.

Job Description

As a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer at BlackVe, Inc, you will be an integral part of our dynamic engineering team, responsible for designing, analyzing, and implementing spacecraft thermal systems. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and developing critical spacecraft thermal subsystem and overall spacecraft thermal control, including designing and executing thermal vacuum testing and model verification/validation. This role requires a solid understanding of thermal dynamics engineering principles, hands-on experience with spacecraft thermal design, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment. You will be required to assist in prototyping and operations support as we push innovations at speed for our customers. You will be part of building a culture that rewards innovation and risk-taking, uses rapid prototyping, is backed by engineering rigor, aggressively works to solve customer problems, drives personal ownership and accountability, and embraces a positive environment of openness and respect. The position requires location in Albuquerque, NM.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and Development: Design, develop, and test spacecraft thermal control systems in variety of orbital conditions.
• Create and analyze thermal testing for verification and validation of total system thermal performance/safety.
• Develop detailed schematics for thermal active and passive components.
• Perform simulations and modeling to predict system performance and identify potential issues throughout the spacecraft life cycle.
• System Integration: Integrate thermal control and coating components with other spacecraft systems, ensuring compatibility and performance.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and systems engineering teams to achieve optimal design solutions.
• Conduct system-level testing and validation to ensure reliability and functionality.
• Documentation and Compliance: Prepare and maintain detailed design documentation, including specifications, drawings, and test reports.
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards, regulations, and customer requirements.
• Participate in design reviews and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and technicians.
• Troubleshooting and Support: Diagnose and resolve issues related to thermal systems during the development, testing, and operational phases.
• Provide technical support for production and fielded spacecraft as needed.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay current with advancements in thermal engineering and aerospace technologies. Identify and implement improvements to existing designs and processes.

Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with emphasis on thermodynamics, or related field.

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with a focus on spacecraft thermal systems.

Technical Skills: Proficiency in space thermal design and analysis tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, or similar). Experience with thermal subsystem design, including specification of thermal coatings, blanketing and overall thermal control techniques. Knowledge of thermal vacuum testing and design, test and implementation of test fixtures for thermal vacuum testing. Familiarity with spacecraft environmental conditions and requirements.

Soft Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, startup environment. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team. Must have the ability to qualify and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Why Join Us?

Opportunity to work at the forefront of technology and innovation to meet the most pressing needs of our national security customers. Small, dynamic, high performing team in a collaborative, inclusive work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development. Competitive salary and benefits package including flexible time off; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; 401k with non-elective company matching, stock options.