At a Glance
- Tasks: Run thermal work packages, model spacecraft behaviour, and conduct thermal tests for missions.
- Company: Join Open Cosmos, a leader in space technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Work with a diverse team, competitive salary, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a mission-driven focus on accessibility in space.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in space technology and solve global challenges.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of thermal control, modelling tools, and satellite subsystems.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
At Open Cosmos we are solving the world’s biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on…
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
We’re looking for someone who combines technical depth with a collaborative spirit. You should have:
- 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.
To apply, you must have the legal right to work in your chosen location.
Please submit your application in English.
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
Equal opportunity employer
At Open Cosmos, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace built on respect, dignity, and belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we actively challenge bias to ensure every candidate and employee feels truly welcome. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are committed to maintaining an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Thermal Systems Engineer in Harwell employer: Open Cosmos
Open Cosmos is an exceptional employer for those passionate about space technology, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where innovation thrives. With a commitment to employee growth and development, team members are encouraged to collaborate across disciplines while tackling real-world challenges through cutting-edge satellite communications solutions. Join a diverse and ambitious team dedicated to making space accessible, all while enjoying the benefits of a supportive culture that values respect and belonging.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Thermal Systems Engineer in Harwell
✨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 maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into thermal systems and spacecraft design. Brush up on your knowledge of thermal modelling tools like ESATAN-TMS. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your collaborative spirit! During interviews, share examples of how you've worked with cross-functional teams. Highlighting your teamwork skills will resonate well with the Open Cosmos culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 in Harwell
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 spacecraft thermal control, as these are key for us. We want to see how your skills align with what we do!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about space technology and how your collaborative spirit fits into our team. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for what we do at Open Cosmos.
Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on relevant projects, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of how you’ve planned and delivered thermal tests or tackled challenges in spacecraft design. This helps us understand your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
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 to join our mission-driven team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Open Cosmos
✨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 examples from your past experiences where you modelled or analysed thermal behaviour, as this will show your technical depth.
✨Familiarise with Tools
Get comfortable with thermal modelling tools like ESATAN-TMS, Thermica, or Thermal Desktop. If you can, practice using these tools before the interview so you can confidently talk about how you've used them in previous projects.
✨Collaboration is Key
Since the role involves working closely with other subsystem engineers, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a team setting. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve contributed to a project’s success through teamwork.
✨Show Your Proactive Side
Demonstrate your proactive and adaptable approach by discussing times when you faced challenges in fast-paced environments. Share how you tackled those challenges and what you learned, as this will resonate well with their mission-driven culture.
