Sr. FEA Engineer (Thermal and Structural) Verified today

TRL11 is a startup in Irvine, CA developing novel video and imaging systems for spacecraft, enabling visual intelligence from the final frontier.

You 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 offers significant influence on TRL11's simulation practices and suits engineers eager to 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

Requirements

Minimum:

• 5-10 years of experience in simulation, mechanical, or aerospace engineering with strong hands-on FEA capabilities for thermal (steady-state and transient) and structural (stress, vibration, shock) analysis
• Proven ability to perform both iterative design simulations and high-fidelity verification, including developing and validating correlated models using test data
• Solid understanding of heat transfer (conduction, radiation) and structural mechanics, with the ability to define appropriate assumptions, boundary conditions, and model fidelity
• Experience supporting analyses aligned with aerospace or defense program requirements and communicating results clearly to cross-functional teams
• Proficiency with CAE tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, Simscale, or similar
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range $120-180k
• 401k and Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• Unlimited Paid Time Off (with prior approval) for Vacation, Sick, Public Holidays, and Parental Leave
• Possible Stock Option Plan participation, based on performance and tenure