Thermal Engineer (All Levels)

Thermal Engineer (All Levels) Astrolab - 4.3 Hawthorne, CA Job Details Full-time $125,000 - $175,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Parental leave Vision insurance 401(k) matching Qualifications Thermal analysis MATLAB Performance testing in mechanical engineering Automation Thermal control Data analysis skills System design Mid-level Control system design 3 years Analysis skills Bachelor's degree in engineering ANSYS System validation System testing FLUENT Design engineering Document review FEA Simulation tools Systems analysis Engineering environmental testing Test analysis NX Communication skills Python Full Job Description Description Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity's presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team. As a Thermal Engineer, you will be responsible for the thermal design, analysis, testing, and validation of Astrolab's hardware and systems. You will work collaboratively across engineering disciplines to optimize thermal management solutions, ensuring the longevity and functionality of our rovers during extended missions in harsh conditions. What you'll do: Develop thermal control strategies and systems for planetary rovers, including thermal analysis, design, and testing for operation in extreme environments Conduct thermal modeling and simulation, including transient and steady-state thermal analysis for systems exposed to vacuum, radiation, and temperature extremes Perform thermal control system (TCS) design and analysis, ensuring rover components withstand operational loads and environmental hazards Design and validate thermal systems using software tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, ANSYS, Sinda/Fluent) and physical tests Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate thermal solutions into overall rover design Automate workflows to streamline thermal analysis processes and reduce engineering cycles Document designs, analysis results, and validation outcomes to support team understanding and future reference Review and provide feedback on the thermal designs and analyses of peers Drive performance improvements and cost-efficient solutions in thermal system design What you'll bring: Bachelor's degree in an engineering or STEM field 3+ years of experience with thermal analysis and design using software tools such as MATLAB, Python, or Thermal Desktop Experience with thermal modeling software like ANSYS, SINDA/FLUENT, or Thermal Desktop (Thermal Desktop experience highly desired) Knowledge of high performance heat transfer systems (heat pipes, thermal switches, etc.) and in-space thermal protection (MLI, MMOD, etc.) Experience with planetary rover systems or space-grade thermal components Familiarity with thermal FEA software (NX, Ansys, etc.) Ability to analyze and make decisions based on thermal test data and simulation results Strong written and verbal communication skills Experience with reduced-order thermal modeling techniques Benefits and Perks Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration Equity ownership in the company Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support 401(k) plan with company match Flexible PTO and parental leave Home office set up reimbursement Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks About Astrolab Having a strong, inclusive, and inspired team is essential to accomplishing our bold mission. Employees are our biggest asset, and we are deeply committed to them and our values. At Astrolab we… Demonstrate and inspire trust. Interactions are direct, honest, and respectful. We are fair and transparent with what we do and why. Thrive in balance. Balance gives us perspective and keeps us motivated and inspired. We commit to rewarding work and a fulfilling personal life. Seek diverse perspectives. We ask questions, engage in productive debate and offer alternatives to ensure our solutions and products are robust and a reflection of our collective best. Move with purpose. Quality and reliability are accomplished through efficient ideation and iteration. We act with a sense of urgency and deliver what we promise, always with the big picture in mind. Make an impact. We intentionally move our community and industry into the future through our work, practices, and actions.