Senior Thermal Engineer

At ClearSpace, we believe in reusability, in affordability driving disruption, and that no progress is real unless it is sustainable.

Our company was founded in 2018 out of the realization that in-orbit servicing and space debris removal are vital services for the future of space exploration and operations. Today ClearSpace has assembled an expert engineering team and is leading the way toward sustainable space operations. From a garage in Switzerland, we now operate across UK and Europe, and are working with world-leading institutions and companies to bring our dream of a sustainable space ecosystem to life.

Motivated to join us and make a difference beyond earth? We are currently looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer to join the team.

The Role

As a Senior Thermal Engineer, you will lead the thermal design, analysis, and testing of spacecraft systems and components. You'll be responsible for developing thermal models, defining control strategies, and ensuring compliance with mission requirements. This role involves close collaboration with cross functional engineering teams and mentoring junior engineers to drive technical excellence. You will also support environmental qualification testing and contribute to proposal and review processes throughout the project lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Lead thermal design andanalysis activities for spacecraft subsystems and components.
• Develop and validate thermalmodels using ESATAN-TMS.
• Define thermal controlstrategies including passive and active systems (e.g., MLI, heat pipes,radiators, heaters).
• Support thermal testingactivities from component-level through full spacecraft assembly.
• Support thermal environmentalqualification testing (TVAC), including test planning and data review.
• Support proposal developmentand technical reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR).
• Ensure compliance with missionrequirements, standards, and customer specifications.
• Collaborate with crossfunctional teams, including avionics, mechanical, propulsion, and systemsengineering teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Manage and provide mentorshipto junior engineers and foster technical excellence across the team.
• Responsible for maintainingdocumentation, including design specifications, test plans, performance reports and ICDs.

Must Have

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• Minimum 10 years of experience in thermal engineering within the space industry
• Proficiency in ESATAN-TMS and thermal analysis software
• Strong understanding of space thermal environments and heat transfer mechanisms
• Experience with thermal testing and instrumentation
• Knowledge of thermal coatings and materials for space applications
• Experience with flight hardware development and qualification
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills
• Abilityto work independently and in a team-oriented environment

Nice to Have

• Experience with other thermal analysis tools
• Experience with CubeSats or small satellite platforms
• Experience working with international space agencies
• Familiarity with ECSS standards
• Creativity to find innovative solutions

What's great in the job?

• Great team of smart people, in a friendly and open culture
• The freedom to evolve and grow within a team of experienced specialists
• Real responsibilities and challenges in a fast evolving company
• A caring and collaborative working environment