Overview
Thermal Analysis Engineer – Orion Passive Thermal Control Systems
Johnson Space Center - Houston Texas
Help Keep NASA’s Deep Space Missions Cool – Literally.
Are you inspired by the idea of supporting human spaceflight and playing a hands-on role in the next giant leap for mankind? Do you thrive on solving complex engineering problems that make space missions safer, smarter, and more efficient? If so — you could be the perfect fit for our team.
Astrion Industries, through the JETS contract, is seeking a Thermal Analysis Engineer to support NASA’s Orion spacecraft — the vehicle that will carry astronauts back to the Moon and, one day, even to Mars. You’ll be joining a team of passionate, mission-driven engineers helping ensure these spacecrafts stay thermally safe and operational in the harsh conditions of space.
This isn’t just a job — it’s a front-row seat to the future of exploration.
What You’ll Do:
As a Thermal Analyst, you’ll apply your skills to evaluate and guide the performance of passive thermal control systems — vital subsystems that regulate spacecraft temperature in extreme space environments.
Here’s how you’ll contribute:
- Develop and refine thermal models for space vehicles, using tools like Thermal Desktop, SINDA, and AutoCAD
- Simulate spacecraft performance under real mission conditions, including Moon-bound and Mars-capable vehicles
- Correlate model predictions with flight and test data to improve system performance
- Collaborate with NASA engineers and partner contractors across disciplines to define requirements, troubleshoot anomalies, and support critical decision-making
- Participate in technical reviews, risk assessments, and system integration planning
- Support testing and inspection activities during spacecraft build and integration phases — including hands-on interaction with flight hardware
- Proactively identify and resolve potential issues in installation, integration, or testing environments, while communicating risks and solutions to senior management
- Provide technical leadership, data-driven insights, and mission-focused solutions to ensure Orion’s passive thermal systems meet performance targets
What You’ll Bring:
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
- 2–5 years of experience in thermal analysis or a closely related field
- Proficiency in Thermal Desktop/SINDA/AutoCAD
- Experience programming in FORTRAN
- Strong analytical thinking, data interpretation, and technical writing skills
- Excellent communication skills and ability to thrive in collaborative, multi-disciplinary teams
Preferred Qualifications:
- BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
- 5+ years of experience working with spacecraft passive thermal control systems
- Experience building and reviewing complex, multi-system thermal models
- Familiarity with thermal requirements definition and validation
- Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data processing and scripting
- Experience with NASA projects or deep space mission development is a plus
Why You’ll Love Working With Us:
- Be part of a high-impact team contributing directly to NASA’s Orion Program and future Moon/Mars missions
- Work on cutting-edge spacecraft technology and make a real-world impact on human space exploration
- Enjoy a 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off!)
- Benefit from ongoing professional growth, mentorship, and leadership opportunities
- Access to on-site amenities like a cafeteria (breakfast & lunch)
- Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities to grow your career with us
Important Details:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Residency may be required
- Clearance: Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation
- Location: Work is primarily in an office environment; inspections and site visits may require travel and physical mobility
- Physical: Occasional light lifting (up to 25 lbs), standing/sitting for extended periods, and possible travel (domestic)
- Team Culture: We value professionalism, collaboration, curiosity, and a proactive attitude that helps move missions forward
Take the Leap With Us
Ready to be part of something truly extraordinary? Join a team where your work doesn’t just make headlines — it makes history.
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