Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

About Observable Space

At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.

We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.

Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit observable.space.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly-motivated and hands-on Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you’ll design and develop thermal control systems for telescope platforms and spacecraft. You’ll work with a multidisciplinary team of optical, electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to ensure thermal stability and performance for ground-based and potential future space-based deployment.

What You'll Do

• Design and optimize thermal control systems for spacecraft and telescope platforms (e.g., radiators, heaters, insulation, thermal straps, and enclosures).

• Develop thermal models and perform detailed thermal analysis (steady-state and transient) across operational environments.

• Perform STOP analysis (Structural, Thermal, Optical Performance) to verify system-level thermal stability and its impact on optical performance.

• Conduct FEA simulations for thermal, structural, and environmental conditions.

• Collaborate with optics, mechanical, and electrical teams to ensure proper thermal integration with imaging, tracking, and sensing subsystems.

• Define thermal requirements, margins, and verification strategies for system and subsystem performance.

• Support environmental testing, including thermal vacuum (TVAC), thermal cycling, and validation of thermal models.

• Support the full product lifecycle, from concept design and prototyping to testing and production.