Thermal Design Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

K2 Space is building large, high-powered spacecraft for the next generation of space development. Backed by Lightspeed Venture Partners, Altimeter Capital, and many others ($200M raised to date), we intend to mass produce the highest-powered satellite platforms ever built for missions across LEO to Deep Space.

The rise of launch vehicles like Falcon 9 and Starship enables the move from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance. We believe this new era requires spacecraft with a fundamentally different design in order to fully utilize the massive rockets coming to market.

We're a team that believes the future lies in building large, high-powered satellites that can handle multiple orbits. This is a necessity if we ever want to develop the solar system, and become a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization.

If you are a motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and you're excited about contributing to the success of a groundbreaking Series B space startup, we'd love for you to apply.

The Role

As a Thermal Design Engineer you will be a core driver of the detailed thermal design of spacecraft subsystems by running thermal analysis at both the component and spacecraft level. You will also be involved in exploring different thermal management strategies and demonstrating them through test campaigns. Our ideal candidate has experience with in-orbit integrated thermal analysis of spacecraft components using both first principles as well analytical models using software tools (such as Thermal Desktop, Ansys IcePak, and Python for automation purposes). Hands-on experience with thermal testing for spacecraft components such as thermal cycling and TVAC is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Work with other engineering subsystems owners to develop robust thermal design for avionics boxes and other electro-mechanical subsystems

Work independently to set up and execute thermal testing ranging from development to qualification

Develop and maintain thermal models for spacecraft and sub-components using Thermal Desktop and Ansys

Work with mechanical teams to develop passive and active thermal control hardware for the spacecraft including radiators, heaters, heat pipes, surface coating etc..

Work with avionics teams to develop thermal models and thermal tests for electronic assemblies

Basic Qualifications

3+ years of experience with radiative and conductive thermal modeling of spacecraft systems using Thermal Desktop or similar tools

3+ years of experience with selection, sizing, and design of thermal control hardware including, but not limited to, heat pipes, heaters, SSM, OSR, thermal straps, thermal paints, tapes, MLI, TEC, etc.

1+ year of experience with thermal cycling and thermal vacuum testing including predictions, setup, instrumentation and thermal model correlation

Nice to Have

Experience with full-vehicle thermal vacuum testing and model correlation

Experience with integrated thermal analysis of spacecraft and launch vehicles

Experience with electrical PCBA thermal modeling and thermal interface materials (thermal grease, gap pads, etc.)

Familiarity with SMC-S016 standard or equivalent

Experience with spacecraft primary radiator design and analysis

Knowledge of Atlassian software environments

Experience with Python, C / C++, or Matlab for thermal modeling and automated data analysis

Compensation and Benefits :

Base salary range for this role is $100,000 - $140,000 + equity in the company

Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to : knowledge and skills, education, and experience level

Comprehensive benefits package including unlimited paid time off, medical / dental / vision / coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks

If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged!

If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.

Export Compliance

As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees / asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person."

The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license.

Equal Opportunity

K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin / ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.