Space Systems Thermal Engineer (M/F)

Job Description:

A vacancy for a Space Systems Thermal Engineer has arisen within Airbus DS Space Systems Spain in Getafe (Madrid). The successful candidate will join the Thermal Systems and Space Environment Engineering Team and contribute to the design, analysis and verification of spacecraft thermal control systems at system and subsystem level. The role covers the full thermal engineering lifecycle, including requirements definition, thermal design, modelling, testing, manufacturing support and technical coordination with internal teams, customers and suppliers.

The team supports the development of the space systems designed and integrated within Airbus DS Space Systems Spain, including complete satellites, instruments, platforms and launcher equipment. It works closely with other thermal engineering groups across Airbus DS to harmonize practices, support product evolution roadmaps, promote R&D activities and facilitate the implementation of new technical solutions into projects in the thermal control system domain. In coordination with programmes, product assurance, procurement and other engineering functions, the team contributes to the on-time, on-quality and on-cost delivery of space systems in line with customer expectations and company commitments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and analyse spacecraft thermal control systems.

• Define thermal requirements, design criteria and verification approaches.

• Develop thermal mathematical models for flight and test predictions.

• Perform preliminary and detailed sizing of thermal control systems.

• Support thermal test campaigns, including test preparation, prediction and model correlation.

• Coordinate with system, mechanical, AIT, manufacturing and other engineering teams.

• Support interface definition, trade-off studies and design reviews.

• Contribute to proposal activities, including concept studies and cost estimation.

• Provide technical support to subcontractors and suppliers (e.g., thermal hardware).

• Support manufacturing, assembly, integration and test activities.

• Prepare and review technical documentation in line with ECSS and project requirements.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Master’s degree, or equivalent, in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.

• 1 to 3 years of experience in spacecraft thermal control design and analysis.

• Good knowledge of spacecraft thermal control solutions such as MLI, coatings, heaters and two-phase heat transport systems and their practical implementation.

• Experience in cryogenics is considered an asset.

• Experience with space thermal control modelling tools such as SYSTEMA/THERMICA and ESATAN-TMS (knowledge of additional tools is an asset).

• Experience with Python or similar tools for analysis and data post-processing is considered an asset.

• Experience with test data analysis and thermal model correlation is considered an asset.

• Familiarity with CAD tools and engineering documentation.

• Experience with requirement management tools such as DOORS is considered an asset.

• Understanding of manufacturing, assembly and integration constraints for space hardware.

• Familiarity with ECSS standards.

• Experience working in multidisciplinary engineering teams across the full product lifecycle.

• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and a structured problem-solving approach.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are essential. Fluency in Spanish is a strong asset. French and/or German are also considered an asset.

We are looking for a proactive, self-motivated engineer who enjoys working in a collaborative and technically challenging environment and is eager to contribute to the development of space systems. If you have the relevant skills and experience to become a valuable member of the Thermal Systems and Space Environment Engineering Team, we look forward to receiving your application.

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company:

Airbus Defence and Space SAU

Employment Type:

Permanent

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Experience Level:

Entry Level

Job Family:

Fluid & Hydromechanics, Thermal

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