Job Description
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.
- Employment in this role is contingent on Astrolab being selected as a winner of NASA’s LTVS program, scheduled for announcement on November 15, 2025.
What you'll do :
Develop thermal control strategies and systems for planetary rovers, including thermal analysis, design, and testing for operation in extreme environmentsConduct thermal modeling and simulation, including transient and steady-state thermal analysis for systems exposed to vacuum, radiation, and temperature extremesPerform thermal control system (TCS) design and analysis, ensuring rover components withstand operational loads and environmental hazardsDesign and validate thermal systems using industry-standard analysis tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, Sinda / Fluent, ANSYS, NX) and physical testingCollaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate thermal solutions into overall rover designAutomate workflows to streamline thermal analysis processes and reduce engineering cyclesDocument designs, analysis results, and validation outcomes to support team understanding and future referenceReview and provide feedback on the thermal designs and analyses of peersDrive performance improvements and cost-efficient solutions in thermal system designWhat you'll bring :
Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or STEM field2+ years of experience with thermal modeling software such as ANSYS, NX Thermal, SINDA / FLUENT, or Thermal Desktop (Thermal Desktop experience STRONGLY desired)Experience performing thermal analysis and design in tandem with software programming for automation of simulation inputs and post-processing (MATLAB / Python preferred)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 componentsFamiliarity with thermal FEA software (NX Thermal, Ansys, etc.)Ability to analyze and make decisions based on thermal test data and simulation resultsStrong written and verbal communication skillsExperience with reduced-order thermal modeling techniquesWhat We Offer :
Work with a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface explorationOwnership in the companyMedical, dental, and vision coverage401(k) with matchingFlexible time off and parental leaveOn-site snacks, beverages, and 2x weekly lunchesFlexible work environment