Senior Thermal Engineer

Join Vardaspace as a Thermal Hardware Engineer specializing in Passive & Active Control Systems. In this role, you will be at the forefront of innovative thermal management solutions, ensuring the efficiency and reliability of our cutting-edge technologies. Collaborate with a dynamic team to design, develop, and test thermal hardware components that meet rigorous performance standards.

About VardaLow Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is pioneering the advancement of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to dependable and cost-effective reentry capsules.From life-saving pharmaceuticals to enhanced fiber optics, a myriad of products utilized on Earth today can only be produced in space. Varda is driving innovation in the orbital economy by establishing both the products and infrastructure required for space to directly enhance life on Earth. Our mission is to expand the economic horizons of humanity.Our team is exceptionally equipped to achieve this objective, with leadership and personnel comprising veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, leading pharmaceutical companies, and Silicon Valley. Founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov, Varda is supported by esteemed investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital.Varda's headquarters is located in El Segundo, California, where we operate offices and a production facility for building, integrating, and testing our vehicles, equipment, and materials. Additionally, Varda has offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, AL.Join Varda and contribute to the creation of a thriving in-space ecosystem.

About Matter IntelligenceMatter Intelligence is at the forefront of developing cutting-edge airborne and spaceborne sensing systems that integrate precision optics, innovative thermal architectures, spacecraft engineering, and AI-enhanced data analysis. Our advanced systems function effectively in challenging orbital and airborne environments, unlocking new possibilities for Earth observation capabilities.With a proven track record of delivering technologies to Mars for NASA/JPL, designing advanced sensors for U.S. defense, and establishing core infrastructure at OpenAI, our team is now focused on creating the next generation of sensing systems for both space and airborne applications.About the RoleWe are looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer who will take charge of the thermal architecture, analysis, and verification of our precision optical payloads and spacecraft systems. This role encompasses ownership of thermal performance from the initial concept stage through integration, testing, and, where applicable, on-orbit operations.You will be responsible for developing and maintaining intricate thermal models, steering thermal trade studies, supporting STOP performance, and collaborating closely with systems, optomechanical, electronics, and AI & T teams to ensure that flight hardware meets all performance requirements throughout every mission phase.This is a hands-on, analytical, and leadership-focused role suited for an engineer seeking significant technical ownership over hardware that operates in flight.Key ResponsibilitiesThermal Architecture & DesignDefine and lead the thermal architecture for optical payloads and spacecraft subsystems.Design both passive and active thermal control solutions, including radiators, heat pipes, thermal straps, insulation, and cryogenic interfaces.Translate mission-level thermal requirements into subsystem- and component-level designs.Support thermal trades to effectively balance performance, mass, power, and complexity.Thermal Modeling & AnalysisDevelop, maintain, and correlate detailed thermal models using industry-standard tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT).Conduct steady-state and transient thermal analyses across all mission phases (launch, ascent, on-orbit hot/cold cases, safe modes).Perform in-depth thermal analysis of precision optical elements (mirrors, mounts, focal plane assemblies), including thermo-elastic distortion.Execute thermal assessments at the circuit card and chassis level.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Thermal-Hydraulics Engineer to join our dynamic team at Radiant Industries. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing thermal-hydraulic systems to enhance our product offerings. Your expertise will play a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and reliability of our engineering solutions.As a key member of our team, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop innovative designs, conduct simulations, and perform experiments. If you are passionate about engineering and eager to take on new challenges, we invite you to apply!

About VardaPioneering the Future of Low Earth Orbit. Varda is at the forefront of developing commercial space infrastructure, ranging from in-orbit pharmaceutical production to efficient and cost-effective reentry capsules.Our innovations include a variety of products, from life-saving pharmaceuticals to advanced fiber optics, all of which can only be developed in space. Varda is committed to driving progress in the orbital economy by establishing the necessary products and infrastructure to ensure that space can directly enhance life on Earth. Our mission is to expand the economic horizons of humanity.Our exceptional team is composed of veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, and major pharmaceutical firms, along with experts from Silicon Valley. Founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov, Varda has garnered significant support from prestigious investors, including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital.Headquartered in El Segundo, California, we operate a production facility where our vehicles, equipment, and materials are designed, integrated, and tested. Additionally, we have offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, AL.Join Varda and contribute to building a thriving ecosystem in space.About This RoleThe Thermal Engineer will be responsible for conducting thermal analysis and ensuring optimal thermal performance of our spacecraft systems.

About Radiant IndustriesRadiant Industries, based in El Segundo, CA, is pioneering the development of the world's first mass-produced, portable nuclear microreactors. Our flagship product, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor designed for mobility and operational longevity, capable of running for up to five years without refueling. This groundbreaking technology is set to replace diesel generators in various critical applications, including hospitals, data centers, remote locations, and military bases. Our innovative approach integrates modern software engineering with nuclear development to deliver safe, factory-produced microreactors using proven materials. Founded in 2020, Radiant is preparing to test its inaugural reactor at the Idaho National Laboratory next year, with customer deliveries commencing in 2028.Position Overview: Control Systems Test EngineerWe are looking for a driven and meticulous Control Systems Test Engineer to join our dynamic team. In this crucial role, you will take charge of developing, maintaining, executing, and automating comprehensive test cases throughout the testing lifecycle for our reactor control systems. You will work collaboratively with systems engineers, controls developers, and software teams to uphold the highest standards of quality and reliability in our safety-critical control software.Key ResponsibilitiesAnalyze and assess control system Simulink models and related design documents to gain insights into system behavior and expected performance.Interpret system requirements for the reactor control system to establish thorough test coverage.Create and manage detailed test artifacts, including:Unit test casesSoftware-in-the-Loop (SiL) test casesHardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) test casesHardware test casesConduct all testing phases:Unit testingSiL testingHiL testingFull hardware testingAutomate testing workflows for SiL, HiL, and hardware test cases utilizing scripting languages such as Python or Go (Golang).Organize and oversee structured test campaigns, including regression suites.

Join Radiant Industries as a Senior Thermal Modeling Engineer, where you will play a crucial role in developing advanced thermal models for innovative products. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure thermal performance meets design specifications. Your expertise will contribute to our mission of delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance user experience.

Important Notice: In accordance with U.S. Government Space Technology Export Regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, conditional residents, asylees, refugees, or eligible for required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.At CesiumAstro, we are at the forefront of innovative communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and various aerospace platforms. Our vibrant and collaborative work environment fosters learning, growth, and engagement across all levels of our organization. If you seek a dynamic, hands-on, and autonomous work culture, CesiumAstro is the right choice for you.We are eager to welcome a Senior Thermal Engineer I to our expanding team. If you excel in your craft, thrive in a startup setting, and are passionate about pioneering hardware for satellites and aerospace systems, we invite you to apply.In this role, you will take charge of designing, analyzing, and validating thermal control systems for Cesium’s next-generation products. The ideal candidate will possess significant experience in developing and analyzing thermal management systems for satellite electronics and airborne systems, along with a profound understanding of space and aerospace thermal environments.As a senior member of our cross-functional team, you will oversee thermal designs from the initial concept phase through requirements definition, detailed design, simulation/analysis, manufacturing, testing, qualification, and in-orbit support of Cesium’s products. You will collaborate closely with electrical and mechanical engineers to devise highly optimized solutions.The successful candidate will also be responsible for presenting engineering design review materials to customers and upper management, as well as participating in proposal-writing initiatives. Therefore, exceptional written and verbal communication skills are essential.

Join Radiant Industries as a Senior Thermal Analyst, where you will leverage your expertise in thermal analysis to contribute to innovative projects. In this role, you will be responsible for assessing thermal performance and ensuring optimal design solutions for our cutting-edge products.

Join Picogrid as a Chief Hardware Engineer, where you'll lead the development of cutting-edge hardware solutions. You will be responsible for overseeing the design, prototyping, and testing of innovative hardware products, ensuring they meet both performance and quality standards. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring your vision to life while driving strategic initiatives that enhance our technology offerings.

Join Radiant Industries as a Senior Thermal Modeling Analyst and leverage your expertise in thermal systems to drive innovation and excellence. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for conducting advanced thermal modeling analyses, collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and enhance thermal solutions, and ensuring that our products meet the highest standards of performance and efficiency.

We are looking for a skilled Hardware Test Engineer to join our dynamic team at usm2. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who are passionate about testing and verifying hardware systems. You will be responsible for developing and executing test plans, troubleshooting hardware issues, and ensuring product quality meets the highest standards.

Join CX2, a pioneering defense technology firm dedicated to achieving spectrum superiority for the United States and its allies. Our cutting-edge, AI-integrated hardware and software solutions are designed to detect, disrupt, and safeguard the electromagnetic spectrum across land, air, sea, and space.We are currently on the lookout for a proactive Hardware Test Engineer to spearhead the development and execution of testing protocols for our hardware products in a dynamic manufacturing setting. In this role, you will be instrumental in validating product performance, reliability, and compliance by designing test procedures, fixtures, and automated testing systems. This position will support both new product introductions (NPI) and high-volume production efforts at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.

Join our team at Radiant Industries as a Structural & Thermal Analyst - Turbomachinery. In this pivotal role, you will oversee the structural, thermal, and mechanical performance of high-speed rotating machinery, including compressors, turbines, and pumps utilized in our power generation and primary cooling systems.You will collaborate with mechanical designers, manufacturing engineers, and testing teams to ensure our hardware meets performance expectations under extreme mechanical and thermal conditions. Your contributions will significantly impact Radiant’s mission through trade studies, iterative design, prototype development, simulations, and comprehensive testing.Responsibilities:Conduct structural and thermal analyses of turbomachinery components and assemblies (compressors, turbines, rotors, electric motors, bearings, seals, and housings) to inform design decisions and ensure reliability under operational and transient conditions.Assess static and dynamic mechanical performance, thermal stresses, and coupled thermal-structural interactions.Perform fatigue, durability, and rotor-bearing performance analyses for high-speed rotating systems.Support evaluations of airflow, heat transfer, and temperature distributions within turbomachinery components as part of thermal and structural assessments.Investigate complex interactions between mechanical, thermal, and rotor system behaviors.Collaborate with design, assembly, and testing teams to optimize component designs, assembly processes, and thermal management strategies.Assist in prototype and first-article testing, including integration, instrumentation setup, data collection, and analysis.Document technical results, share findings, and provide actionable insights to cross-functional teams.

CX2 is an innovative defense technology firm dedicated to establishing spectrum superiority for the United States and its allies. Our cutting-edge AI-driven hardware and software solutions are designed to detect, disrupt, and safeguard the electromagnetic spectrum across various domains including land, air, sea, and space.We are on the lookout for a talented RF Hardware Engineer to join our dynamic team. The successful candidate will possess proven expertise in the design, testing, and construction of RF systems (Tx/Rx) for various RF signal applications, including communications, RADAR, and navigation, spanning UHF to X-Band frequencies.Please note that this position requires an onsite presence at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA; remote work arrangements are not applicable for this role.

About VardaLow Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is pioneering the advancement of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical manufacturing to innovative and cost-effective reentry capsules.Our mission is to harness the potential of space to create products that enhance life on Earth, including essential pharmaceuticals and advanced fiber optics. We aim to drive innovation in the orbital economy by establishing the necessary infrastructure and products.Our team combines expertise from veterans of SpaceX, Blue Origin, leading pharmaceutical firms, and Silicon Valley innovators. Founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov, Varda has secured significant investment from renowned backers such as Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital.Headquartered in El Segundo, California, Varda operates a production facility where we design, integrate, and test our vehicles, equipment, and materials. We also have offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, AL.Join us at Varda and contribute to building a vibrant in-space ecosystem.

About RadiantRadiant, located in El Segundo, CA, is an innovative startup pioneering the development of the world's first mass-produced, portable nuclear microreactors. Our flagship reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor designed for mobility and extended operation, capable of providing power for up to five years without refueling. This revolutionary approach to portable nuclear energy aims to replace traditional diesel generators, delivering essential support for hospitals, data centers, remote locations, and military installations. Founded in 2020, Radiant is poised to test its inaugural reactor at the Idaho National Laboratory in the coming year, with initial customer deployments anticipated to begin in 2028.Position OverviewRadiant is searching for a Senior Advanced Controls Systems Engineer to take the lead in designing, implementing, and validating autonomous control systems for our nuclear microreactors. You will manage the entire control system development process—from defining requirements to operational deployment. Responsibilities include algorithm development, modeling and simulation, embedded implementation, and system validation.This role involves the design and integration of tightly coupled control functions that encompass reactivity control, primary loop mass flow, alternator/generator speed, and coordination across multiple reactors within microgrids. The ideal candidate will possess experience working in regulatory environments, developing autonomous and adaptive control strategies, and conducting system-level analyses of nonlinear, coupled dynamic systems. Close collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teams focused on hardware, software, and system integration is essential.

Varda Space, Inc. develops commercial infrastructure for low Earth orbit, including in-orbit pharmaceutical manufacturing systems and reentry capsules built for efficiency and cost management. The company’s work aims to make space more accessible and useful, supporting advances in pharmaceuticals and fiber optics while expanding economic opportunities in space for the benefit of life on Earth. The team at Varda brings together experience from organizations such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, leading pharmaceutical firms, and Silicon Valley startups. Founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov, Varda is supported by investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital. Headquartered in El Segundo, California, Varda’s team handles design, integration, and testing of vehicles, equipment, and materials at its production facility. The company also maintains offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, Alabama. Varda’s mission is to lay the groundwork for an in-space economy.

Senior Automation & Controls EngineerJoin Radiant Industries as a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer, where your expertise will be instrumental in collaborating with our design and manufacturing teams. You will be responsible for the design, construction, and implementation of automated production and testing equipment crucial for the mass production and refueling of our innovative microreactor technology.Key Responsibilities:Lead the design, development, and execution of automation projects, including ideation of equipment, machine commissioning, and conducting quality and reliability studies before transitioning projects to operational teams.Develop, write, and troubleshoot PLC code focused on creating organized, structured, and maintainable code suitable for high-volume manufacturing environments.Ensure factory safety and reliability by implementing ANSI/RIA R15.06 and OSHA compliant systems for robots, gantries, conveyors, and other manufacturing equipment.Design electrical systems that adhere to NEC, NFPA, and UL508A standards.Select and size electrical and electromechanical components, including servo motors and controllers.Oversee the assembly of electrical cabinets, field wiring, as well as pneumatic and fluid plumbing.Create user-friendly HMI screens that simplify the operation and troubleshooting of complex machinery.Required Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or Computer Science from an accredited institution.A minimum of 4 years of experience in designing and commissioning automation and controls systems for industrial applications.Preferred Qualifications:Master’s degree in an engineering discipline.Experience in process integration and electromechanical/mechatronic systems.Familiarity with various robotic welding applications (Kuka, ABB & Fanuc).Proficiency in robot and PLC simulation.Experience with electrical schematic CAD software such as Zuken E3.Knowledge of programming languages such as C#, .NET, Python, and/or SQL.Experience in PLC programming, preferably with Beckhoff TwinCat 3.