Senior Thermal Engineer

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today’s five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.Position OverviewWe are seeking a highly skilled Senior Thermal Engineer to support the thermal performance and integrity of a cutting-edge space-based communications system. This role will focus on on-orbit thermal operations, analysis, and anomaly resolution, ensuring safe and efficient spacecraft performance. The ideal candidate is innovative, detail-oriented, and experienced in working both independently and within cross-functional engineering teams.Key Responsibilities:Lead on-orbit thermal support activities for spacecraft systemsDefine thermal fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) limits and automated responses across configurationsLead troubleshooting and anomaly resolution efforts in collaboration with the broader thermal engineering teamSupport development of spacecraft concepts of operations (CONOPS) to ensure thermal safety during all mission phasesEstablish and improve processes for monitoring and analyzing on-orbit thermal telemetry dataServe as a liaison between thermal, flight operations, and software engineering teamsPerform thermal modeling and analysis using industry-standard toolsSupport spacecraft and subsystem-level thermal testing activitiesContribute to ongoing improvements in thermal design, processes, and operational strategiesQualificationsEducation:Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical fieldExperience:A minimum of 5 years of experience as a spacecraft thermal engineer or in a closely related rolePreferred Qualifications:Master’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldExperience in fast-paced or high-growth technical environmentsBasic programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar)Soft Skills:Strong interpersonal skillsProven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teamsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work independently and take ownership of tasksAdaptability in a fast-paced and dynamic environmentMeticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in analysis and deliverablesTechnology Stack:Thermal analysis tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop or similar)Engineering data analysis tools and telemetry systemsGeneral programming/scripting tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or equivalent)Physical RequirementsAbility to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periodsAbility to occasionally support testing activities in lab or operational settingsWillingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as requiredThis job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.