Space Resources Senior Thermal Engineer (R40404)

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our diverse team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!  

This position is part of the Space Systems Development (SSD) business unit. SSD develops next-generation concepts and systems to advance our future of living and working in space sustainably.

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Thermal Engineer to join our ambitious Space Resources Program team. This role is centered on advancing and demonstrating In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) technologies for the Moon and beyond. You will specialize in developing thermal management solutions for systems that operate under extreme conditions, including high temperatures and high currents, crucial for ISRU technologies like electrolysis and reactor operations. 

Special Mentions

• Relocation provided

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Design, simulate, and optimize thermal management systems for ISRU technologies, with a focus on high-temperature and high-current applications, including reactors and electrolysis systems. 

• Participate in all product development stages, from conceptualization through design, to implementation, integration, and environmental testing in space analog conditions. 

• Conduct detailed thermal analysis and simulations to predict system behavior under various space environmental conditions. 

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of thermal systems within complex ISRU platforms. 

• Lead the development, execution, and analysis of thermal tests, ensuring systems meet stringent space mission requirements. 

• Formulate and manage thermal specifications and interface requirements for ISRU systems and components. 

• Serve as a key thermal engineering resource, providing guidance and expertise to project teams and stakeholders. 

• Document and maintain comprehensive records of designs, analyses, and test results for knowledge sharing and future reference.

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related fields. 

• 7+ years of experience in thermal engineering with specific expertise in high temperature, high current systems, and their applications in space environments. 

• Demonstrated proficiency in thermal modeling and simulation tools for space applications. 

• Hands-on experience in designing, testing, and integrating thermal management systems for space hardware, especially ISRU technologies. 

• Solid understanding of heat transfer principles, thermal management techniques, and the selection of materials suitable for high temperature and high current space environments. 

• Proven track record of developing and delivering spaceflight hardware under tight development cycles. 

• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, team-oriented environment. 

• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related fields. 

• 10+ years of relevant experience in thermal engineering for space systems, with a focus on ISRU technologies. 

• Extensive experience with thermal management in high temperature and high current applications, including reactors and electrolysis systems. 

• Proficient in environmental testing of space hardware, particularly in thermal vacuum conditions. 

• Knowledge of CAD software for designing thermal management systems and conducting analysis. 

• Experience with thermal analysis of various heating methods, including inductive and microwave heating in vacuum environments. 

Compensation range for on site CA applicants is$136,467—$191,053.80 USD

Inclusivity Statement

Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be jus