Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.
As a Thermal Engineer, you will be responsible for the thermal design, analysis, testing, and validation of Astrolab's hardware and systems. You will work collaboratively across engineering disciplines to optimize thermal management solutions, ensuring the longevity and functionality of our rovers during extended missions in harsh conditions.
What you'll do:
Develop thermal control strategies and systems for planetary rovers, including thermal analysis, design, and testing for operation in extreme environments
Conduct thermal modeling and simulation, including transient and steady-state thermal analysis for systems exposed to vacuum, radiation, and temperature extremes
Perform thermal control system (TCS) design and analysis, ensuring rover components withstand operational loads and environmental hazards
Design and validate thermal systems using software tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, ANSYS, Sinda/Fluent) and physical tests
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate thermal solutions into overall rover design
Automate workflows to streamline thermal analysis processes and reduce engineering cycles
Document designs, analysis results, and validation outcomes to support team understanding and future reference
Review and provide feedback on the thermal designs and analyses of peers
Drive performance improvements and cost-efficient solutions in thermal system design
What you'll bring:
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) related field
3+ years of experience in thermal analysis and thermal design
Experience using thermal analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python, Thermal Desktop, or equivalent software
Experience with thermal modeling or finite element analysis (FEA) software
Experience with heat transfer principles and thermal management systems
Experience analyzing thermal test data and simulation results
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Thermal Desktop, ANSYS, SINDA/FLUINT, NX, or similar thermal analysis software
Experience with high-performance thermal management systems, including heat pipes, thermal switches, or similar technologies
Experience with in-space thermal protection systems, including multi-layer insulation (MLI) or micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) protection
Experience with planetary rover systems, spacecraft, or space-grade thermal components
Experience with reduced-order thermal modeling techniques
Benefits and Perks
Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
Equity ownership in the company
Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
401(k) plan with company match
Flexible PTO and parental leave
Home office set up reimbursement
Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks