Darwin Recruitment · 1 day ago
Lead Thermal Engineer
Albuquerque, NM
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$130K/yr - $195K/yr
5+ years expDarwin Recruitment is representing a rapidly scaling, mission-driven aerospace organization developing next-generation high-altitude platform systems. They are seeking a hands-on, technically proven Lead Thermal Engineer to guide the development, analysis, and validation of thermal systems across multiple advanced aerospace platforms, ensuring safe and reliable operation in stratospheric environments.
Staffing & Recruiting
Hiring Manager
Callum Day
Responsibilities
Architect, design, and optimize active and passive thermal control systems for high‑altitude aerospace platforms
Perform steady‑state and transient thermal analysis using analytical and numerical tools
Build, validate, and maintain thermal models to predict system performance across stratospheric conditions
Lead material, insulation, coating, radiator, and thermal interface trade studies & selection processes
Define thermal requirements, margins, and safe operating limits for avionics, batteries, payloads, and structures
Support and interpret environmental testing including:
+ Thermal vacuum
+ Altitude simulation
+ Thermal cycling
Correlate test results to models and drive design updates
Partner with electrical, mechanical, systems, and manufacturing teams to solve real-world thermal challenges
Create clear documentation: models, analysis reports, test results, qualification data
Present technical findings in design reviews and risk assessments
Serve as a senior technical advisor on thermal risk, design decisions, and mission readiness
Qualification
Required
Bachelors in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or closely related field
5-10+ years of hands-on thermal engineering experience within aerospace or high-altitude systems
Proven experience supporting thermal design for UAS, drones, HAPS, or related flight vehicles
Demonstrated ability to own thermal decisions and provide engineering leadership
Strong applied understanding of heat transfer-especially in low-density, high-altitude environments
Proficiency in industry thermal modeling tools (ANSYS, Thermal Desktop, COMSOL, etc.)
Experience across design → integration → testing → operational readiness
Strong analytical skills and clear, structured technical communication
Benefits
Chef‑prepared lunches and on-site snacks
Wellness perks (gym access, pickleball court)
Dog‑friendly campus
Comprehensive medical, dental, vision & disability insurance (82%+ employer-paid)
401(k) with company match
Equity opportunities after one year
A collaborative, high‑performance culture built around innovation and mission impact
Company
Darwin Recruitment
Founded in 2001, Darwin Recruitment is a leading global STEM recruitment business with a specialist focus in Technology, Renewable Energy, Life Sciences, Space & Satellite, Quantum, & Engineering.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageCompany data provided by crunchbase