Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

About This Opportunity

We are representing a confidential aerospace client in Munich, Germany, seeking an experienced Spacecraft Thermal Verification Engineer to lead critical thermal test campaigns for next-generation space transportation systems. This is a senior technical leadership role where you will own spacecraft-level thermal testing, drive verification strategy, and ensure compliance across complex space vehicle programs.

As the technical lead for thermal verification activities, you will coordinate Thermal Vacuum (TVAC) and Thermal Balance testing, support flight model integration, and work closely with systems engineering, assembly/integration/test (AIT), avionics, and propulsion teams. This role requires deep hands-on experience with spacecraft qualification programs and the ability to lead cross-functional verification efforts from planning through final flight readiness.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute spacecraft-level Thermal Vacuum and Thermal Balance test campaigns from planning through data exploitation
• Define test objectives, verification logic, success criteria, and develop detailed test plans and procedures in coordination with AIT and other subsystems
• Prepare and lead Test Readiness Reviews, Test Review Boards, and non-conformance (NCR) investigations
• Own the thermal test verification strategy and ensure requirements are properly verified through test, inspection, or demonstration
• Build and maintain verification events, driving closure toward Qualification Review and Flight Readiness Review milestones
• Support flight model integration activities alongside AIT teams during spacecraft assembly
• Define thermal instrumentation strategies, test configurations, and support installation and troubleshooting of thermal hardware
• Participate in integrated spacecraft functional testing, leak testing, fluid loop commissioning, and system check-outs
• Analyze thermal test results, assess spacecraft performance, and identify design improvements and operational recommendations
• Present campaign status, technical findings, and recommendations to project leadership and support technical/design reviews
• Ensure lessons learned are captured and disseminated across the engineering organization

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications:

• MSc or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Thermodynamics, or equivalent discipline
• 10+ years of experience in spacecraft thermal engineering with proven leadership of Thermal Vacuum and Thermal Balance campaigns
• Demonstrated experience with spacecraft qualification and acceptance programs
• Hands-on experience supporting spacecraft assembly, integration, and test (AIT) activities
• Strong technical understanding of thermal control systems implementation including multi-layer insulation (MLI), temperature sensors, heaters, and pumped fluid loops
• Experience working with external suppliers and test facilities
• Proficiency with thermal instrumentation, data acquisition (DAQ) systems, and test facility interfaces
• Experience with test-data processing tools, preferably Python, MATLAB, or equivalent
• Fluent English required; German, French, or Italian language skills are advantageous

Key Skills and Behaviors:

• Strong oral and written communication skills with ability to present technical findings to leadership
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks across multiple concurrent activities
• Positive, flexible attitude with a focus on getting critical work done in dynamic environments
• Collaborative mindset with ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams

How We Work With You

Our talent team at Get A Job.ai partners with leading organizations to connect exceptional candidates with transformative opportunities. When you apply through our platform, a dedicated recruiter will review your background and conduct an initial screening to understand your experience and career goals. If there's a strong match, we will submit your profile to our client for consideration and guide you through their selection process.

Please apply exclusively through Get A Job.ai. Direct contact with the client is not permitted during the recruitment process. We serve as your advocate and primary point of contact throughout.

Pay

Compensation details will be discussed during the screening process based on your experience and qualifications.

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