Lux Aeterna · 11 hours ago
Thermal Design Engineer
Denver, CO
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
8+ years expLux Aeterna is building the first reusable satellite platform with return capability, transforming space for innovation and commerce. They are seeking a Thermal Design Engineer to lead the development of spacecraft thermal management systems, bridging the gap between analysis and hardware ownership.
Satellite CommunicationSpace Travel
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Architect design criteria to drive thermal performance of all subsystems in orbit, during reentry and on the ground
Own the design, procurement, build, and test of all thermal control hardware on the vehicle (heaters, MLI, gap pads, radiators, thermal straps)
Perform hand calculations to iterate through ideas and problems quickly with the structures, avionics, GNC and FSW teams
Own the vehicle thermal model in Thermal Desktop
Work directly with technical leadership to shape the future of space transportation
Support recruiting efforts to shape the engineering team as we grow
Managing technical interfaces with aerothermal teams for reentry analysis
Developing and validating thermal models for both orbital and reentry phases
Designing thermal management systems for orbital and hypersonic reentry conditions
Creating spacecraft thermal control systems for extended orbital operations
Leading selection and qualification for thermal management systems
Driving execution of development, qualification and acceptance test campaigns
Collaborating with mechanical and electrical teams on thermal design criteria
Working with vendors to develop custom thermal components and systems
Qualification
Required
BS in Mechanical Engineering or related field
8+ years of spacecraft thermal engineering experience
Proven track record designing and qualifying thermal control systems through multiple successful missions
Strong understanding of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and thermal analysis tools
Fundamental understanding of mechanical and electrical first principles and design methodologies outside the thermal domain
Experience with Thermal Desktop
Expertise in spacecraft thermal control techniques and technologies
Demonstrated ability to excel in dynamic, high-stakes engineering environments
Preferred
MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Direct experience with hypersonic vehicle or reentry system thermal analysis
Background in thermal protection system design and testing
Experience with aerothermal analysis tools (FIAT, CBAERO or similar)
Early-stage startup experience
Company
Lux Aeterna
Lux Aeterna is a space infrastructure company that focuses on orbital activities through reentry and reusability.
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageTotal Funding
$4M2025-06-25Pre Seed· $4M
Leadership Team
Brian Taylor
Founder & CEO
Company data provided by crunchbase