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Thermal Engineer Jobs (Space)

Experts who design and manage the thermal systems that keep spacecraft and satellites operating in extreme conditions. A critical role in ensuring mission success and longevity.

Open roles
4
Hiring companies
4
View 4 live roles → Get an alert

Thermal Engineers in the UK space sector play a vital role in ensuring the reliability and performance of spacecraft and satellites. They design and manage thermal control systems that protect sensitive equipment from the harsh and varied conditions of space. From the intense heat of the Sun to the freezing cold of deep space, these engineers ensure that every component operates within its optimal temperature range. Key employers include leading aerospace companies, research institutions, and government agencies.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Thermal Engineer

A typical week for a Thermal Engineer is a mix of design work, analysis, and testing. They often collaborate closely with other engineering disciplines to ensure thermal systems integrate seamlessly with the overall spacecraft design.

  1. 01
    Conduct thermal analysis using software tools.
  2. 02
    Design and optimise thermal control systems.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers.
  4. 04
    Perform thermal testing and validation.
  5. 05
    Document and report on thermal performance.
  6. 06
    Attend project meetings and provide thermal expertise.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 3 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Thermica
67%
Thermal Control
33%
Space Thermal Environments
33%
ESATAN-TMS
33%
Thermal Desktop
33%
Thermal Modelling
33%
Satellite Subsystems
33%
Mission Analysis
33%
Space System Design
33%
Thermal-Fluid Analysis
33%
Aerothermal Engineering
33%
1D Modelling Tools
33%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for thermal engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Thermal Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in thermal analysis and testing, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Thermal Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of thermal system design and analysis for specific subsystems or components.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Thermal Engineer

    5–10 yrs

    Lead thermal design and analysis for entire spacecraft or satellite systems, mentoring junior engineers.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Thermal Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Oversee thermal engineering for multiple projects, providing strategic direction and technical leadership.

Pathway

How to become a Thermal Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Entry-Level Position

    Start as a Junior Thermal Engineer, learning the fundamentals of thermal analysis and design.

  2. 2

    Specialisation

    Gain expertise in specific areas such as thermal modelling or material properties.

  3. 3

    Project Leadership

    Take on more responsibility by leading thermal design for subsystems or components.

  4. 4

    System-Level Design

    Advance to leading thermal design for entire spacecraft or satellite systems.

  5. 5

    Technical Leadership

    Mentor junior engineers and provide strategic direction for thermal engineering across multiple projects.

  6. 6

    Industry Expert

    Become a recognised expert in the field, contributing to industry standards and research.

Live jobs

4 live roles

Thermal Engineer

This role involves thermal design and analysis for an aerospace/space programme, including full TCS lifecycle, thermal hardware, and thermal vacuum testing. You will work closely with other disciplines like mechanics and propulsion, and must be eligible for SC clearance.

IO Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom

Thermal Systems Engineer

As a Thermal Systems Engineer, you will lead the thermal work package for multiple satellite missions, model and analyze spacecraft thermal behavior, and plan and execute thermal tests. You will collaborate with other subsystem engineers, contribute to the product roadmap, and ensure mission success from design to launch.

Open Cosmos Ltd Didcot, OX11 0RL, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Senior Thermal Engineer - Contractor

This role involves leading the thermal control subsystem for spacecraft missions, from design and analysis to testing and in-orbit activities. The engineer will work closely with the Thermal Team on fast-paced projects, manage subcontractors, and improve company standards.

Surrey Satellite Technology Guildford, GU2 7YE, United Kingdom
Hybrid Contract Flexible
Spire logo

Thermal Test Engineer

We are seeking a highly capable Thermal Test Engineer to join our satellite design and manufacturing team in the UK. This role is central to the verification and validation of spacecraft thermal performance across the full development lifecycle, from subsystem...

Spire Glasgow, Alba / Scotland, G2 1AL, United Kingdom
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

Glasgow

Location
1 open
FAQs

Common questions

  • Common software tools include ANSYS, MATLAB, and Thermal Desktop for thermal analysis and simulation.

  • Key challenges include managing extreme temperature variations, ensuring long-term reliability, and optimising thermal systems for weight and power constraints.

  • Collaboration is crucial. Thermal Engineers work closely with mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers to ensure all components operate within their thermal limits.

  • Career progression typically involves moving from entry-level positions to leading thermal design for entire systems, and eventually providing strategic leadership across multiple projects.

  • For detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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