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.

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

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

• 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

• 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

Ready to be part of something truly extraordinary? Join a team where your work doesn't just make headlines - it makes history.