At a Glance
- Tasks: Run thermal work packages, model spacecraft behaviour, and conduct thermal tests for missions.
- Company: Open Cosmos, a mission-driven company making space accessible for real-world solutions.
- Benefits: Hybrid work environment, diverse team, and opportunities to work on cutting-edge space technology.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with global customers and ambitious projects.
- Why this job: Join a collaborative team and make a real impact in the exciting field of space technology.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of thermal control, proficiency with modelling tools, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
Working in our Chief Technology Office (CTO)
The CTO division is where Open Cosmos technology comes to life. Covering engineering, product development, and technical innovation, the team designs, builds, and operates the satellites, systems, and platforms that make our missions possible. It’s a highly collaborative environment where ideas become real hardware, software, and data solutions that deliver impact from space.
Our Systems Team brings together brilliant Systems, AOCS and Thermal Engineers who turn ambitious mission concepts into reality. They design, integrate, and optimise every detail – from spacecraft architecture to next-generation optical payloads – making sure every system fits, works, and thrives in orbit. From first sketch to launch day, they own the journey, ensuring our satellites deliver maximum impact back on Earth.
What You'll Be Doing
You’ll run the thermal work package for multiple missions, model and analyse spacecraft thermal behaviour, and plan and run thermal tests. You’ll work hands‑on during AIT, support anomaly resolution, and be part of the team that ensures Open Cosmos missions perform as expected in space.
You’ll also collaborate with our other subsystem engineers, feed into our product roadmap, and help us continuously improve how we design and deliver missions.
What You’ll Bring
- Strong knowledge of spacecraft thermal control and space thermal environments.
- Proficiency with thermal modelling tools (e.g. ESATAN‑TMS, Thermica, Thermal Desktop).
- Proven ability to plan and deliver thermal tests from start to finish.
- Solid understanding of satellite subsystems and confidence working across disciplines.
- Knowledge of mission analysis and overall space system design.
- Clear communication skills – comfortable engaging with colleagues, partners, and customers.
- A proactive, adaptable approach that thrives in a fast‑moving, growing company.
For this role you can be based in either Harwell, UK, Porto, Portugal or Barcelona, Spain.
You must have the legal right to work in your chosen location.
Why Open Cosmos?
- Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe.
- A mission‑driven company making space accessible to help solve real‑world challenges.
- A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team.
Thermal Systems Engineer employer: Open Cosmos Ltd.
Open Cosmos is an exceptional employer that empowers its employees to work at the forefront of space technology, tackling significant global challenges. With a collaborative and diverse work culture, employees benefit from hands-on experience in a dynamic environment, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Located in Didcot, UK, team members enjoy a supportive atmosphere that encourages innovation and creativity, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a real impact in the world of space exploration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Thermal Systems Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Open Cosmos on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with thermal modelling tools, bring it up in conversations or interviews. Share specific examples of how you’ve tackled challenges in past projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to collaborate! Open Cosmos values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss how you work with others. Think of times when you’ve successfully partnered with engineers from different disciplines.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Open Cosmos mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Thermal Systems Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Thermal Systems Engineer role. Highlight your experience with thermal modelling tools and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills fit into our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for space technology and how your collaborative spirit aligns with our team at Open Cosmos. Let us know why you're excited about this opportunity!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Be specific about your technical expertise in spacecraft thermal control and satellite subsystems. Mention any hands-on experience you have with thermal tests or anomaly resolution, as this will really catch our eye!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Open Cosmos Ltd.
✨Know Your Thermal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of spacecraft thermal control and space thermal environments. Be ready to discuss specific thermal modelling tools like ESATAN-TMS or Thermal Desktop, as well as any relevant projects you've worked on that showcase your expertise.
✨Show Off Your Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with other engineers, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate clearly and engage with colleagues across different disciplines.
✨Plan for Practical Questions
Expect questions about planning and delivering thermal tests. Think through your process from start to finish and be ready to explain how you approach anomaly resolution during AIT. Real-life examples will help demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Embrace Adaptability
Open Cosmos is a fast-moving environment, so show that you can thrive under pressure. Share instances where you've had to adapt quickly to changes or challenges in a project, and how that flexibility has led to successful outcomes.
