Sr. FEA Engineer (Thermal and Structural)

TRL11 is a startup based in Irvine, CA developing novel video and imaging systems for spacecraft, enabling visual intelligence from the final frontier. TRL11 is looking for an engineer with experience in finite element analysis (FEA). This role will support primarily thermal but also structural and optical simulation, contribute to test plans and test execution, support systems engineering, and develop TRL11's end to end simulation capabilities. This role is an opportunity to have a large influence on TRL11's simulation practices, and is well suited to someone who is eager to dive in and contribute from day one.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain high-fidelity finite element models for both iterative design analysis and final verification sign-off
• Perform thermal analyses for on-orbit environments including solar loading, radiation, and internal heat dissipation
• Perform structural analyses for launch environments including quasi-static loads, vibration, and shock
• Execute coupled thermo-mechanical simulations to evaluate distortion and performance impacts, especially for optically sensitive systems
• Model thermal behavior driven by solar illumination angles, radiative exchange, and conductive heat paths
• Analyze thermal performance of electronic systems with a focus on heat rejection and maintaining operating temperature limits
• Correlate simulation models with test data from vibration, shock, thermal, and thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing
• Define simulation assumptions, boundary conditions, and methodologies consistent with aerospace and DoD program expectations
• Generate clear, defensible analysis reports to support design reviews, technical decisions, and program milestones
• Partner closely with mechanical, optical, and electrical engineers to drive design decisions through simulation insights
• Support definition of test plans and instrumentation to enable model validation and correlation
• Own and evolve simulation workflows, including meshing strategies, solver selection, and toolchain improvements

Requirements

Minimum:

• 5-10 years of experience in simulation, mechanical, or aerospace engineering with strong hands-on FEA capabilities for thermal (steady-state and transient) and structural (stress, vibration, shock) analysis
• Proven ability to perform both iterative design simulations and high-fidelity verification, including developing and validating correlated models using test data
• Solid understanding of heat transfer (conduction, radiation) and structural mechanics, with the ability to define appropriate assumptions, boundary conditions, and model fidelity
• Experience supporting analyses aligned with aerospace or defense program requirements and communicating results clearly to cross-functional teams
• Proficiency with CAE tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, Simscale, or similar
• Bachelors degree in Engineering or a related field

Preferred:

• 5-10 years of experience in simulation, mechanical, or aerospace engineering with strong hands-on FEA capabilities for thermal (steady-state and transient) and structural (stress, vibration, shock) analysis
• Proven ability to perform both iterative design simulations and high-fidelity verification, including developing and validating correlated models using test data
• Solid understanding of heat transfer (conduction, radiation) and structural mechanics, with the ability to define appropriate assumptions, boundary conditions, and model fidelity
• Experience supporting analyses aligned with aerospace or defense program requirements and communicating results clearly to cross-functional teams
• Proficiency with CAE tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, Simscale, or similar
• Bachelors degree in Engineering or a related field

Benefits

• Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun doing it
• 401k, Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Unlimited Paid Time Off (with prior approval), for Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays, Parental Leave
• Possible Stock Option Plan participation, based on performance and tenure.
• Salary range $120-180k