Thermal Engineer

Thermal Engineer

Reading, UK | Hybrid Working

iO Associates are partnered with an innovative UK-based space technology company developing next-generation satellite platforms and advanced electric propulsion systems. Their mission is to enable more efficient, sustainable satellite operations through cutting-edge spacecraft engineering and breakthrough propulsion technologies.

As they continue to scale their engineering team, they are seeking a Thermal Engineer to take ownership of spacecraft thermal control systems across the full mission lifecycle, from concept development and testing through to in-orbit operations.

The Role

This is an opportunity for an experienced thermal engineer to play a key role in the development of advanced spacecraft platforms. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams including mechanical, propulsion, electronics and systems engineers, you will be responsible for ensuring thermal performance and reliability across all mission phases.

The successful candidate will be capable of developing thermal control solutions from first principles, taking ownership of analysis, design, testing and validation activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform steady-state and transient thermal analyses for spacecraft systems across launch, testing and operational environments
• Develop and validate thermal models to assess heat transfer in vacuum environments dominated by conduction and radiation
• Analyse worst-case thermal scenarios, accounting for environmental effects and internal power dissipation
• Design thermal control hardware and solutions, including MLI, radiators, heaters, thermal straps, coatings and temperature sensing systems
• Support thermal vacuum (TVAC) campaigns, including test planning, instrumentation setup and post-test analysis
• Participate in hands-on hardware testing and validation activities for spacecraft components and subsystems
• Work closely with systems, mechanical and AIT teams to ensure thermal requirements are met throughout development

Essential Experience

• Strong understanding of spacecraft thermal engineering principles
• Experience using industry-standard thermal analysis tools such as ESATAN, Thermal Desktop, Systema, or equivalent software packages
• Knowledge of environmental testing methodologies including TVAC, thermal cycling and spacecraft AIT activities
• Ability to operate effectively within a fast-paced engineering environment
• Experience delivering thermal analysis and thermal control solutions for complex engineering systems

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience developing spacecraft or satellite thermal control systems
• Exposure to multidisciplinary spacecraft development programmes
• Familiarity with mission analysis, systems engineering or propulsion development environments
• Hands-on experience supporting test campaigns and hardware validation

What's On Offer?

• Opportunity to work on pioneering space technologies and next-generation satellite platforms
• High levels of technical ownership and autonomy
• Involvement across the complete spacecraft development lifecycle
• Competitive salary package with long-term incentive opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare
• Hybrid working model with dedicated remote working flexibility
• Visa sponsorship and relocation support available for eligible candidates

If you're an experienced Thermal Engineer looking to contribute to innovative spacecraft programmes within a growing New Space organisation, we'd be keen to hear from you.

Disclaimer: Any remuneration stated in this advertisement is indicative and will be dependent on the successful candidate's experience, skills and qualifications. Final remuneration will be agreed with the successful candidate and will be subject to the terms of the contract.