Senior Thermal Engineer Verified today
Position Overview
AST SpaceMobile is building the first global cellular broadband network in space to operate with standard, unmodified mobile devices. We seek a Senior Thermal Engineer to support thermal performance and integrity of our space-based communications system, focusing on on-orbit thermal operations, analysis, and anomaly resolution.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead on-orbit thermal support activities for spacecraft systems
- Define thermal fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) limits and automated responses across configurations
- Lead troubleshooting and anomaly resolution efforts with the thermal engineering team
- Support development of spacecraft concepts of operations (CONOPS) to ensure thermal safety during all mission phases
- Establish and improve processes for monitoring and analyzing on-orbit thermal telemetry data
- Serve as liaison between thermal, flight operations, and software engineering teams
- Perform thermal modeling and analysis using industry-standard tools
- Support spacecraft and subsystem-level thermal testing activities
- Contribute to ongoing improvements in thermal design, processes, and operational strategies
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field
- Minimum 5 years of experience as a spacecraft thermal engineer or closely related role
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- Experience in fast-paced or high-growth technical environments
- Basic programming experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
- Proficiency with thermal analysis tools (Thermal Desktop or similar)
- Experience with engineering data analysis tools and telemetry systems
Required Skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
- Ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams
- Ability to work independently and take ownership of tasks
- Meticulous attention to detail
- Adaptability in fast-paced and dynamic environments
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in standard office environment and use computer for extended periods
- Ability to occasionally support testing activities in lab or operational settings
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as required