Come join us in shaping the future! Get in on the ground floor as an early member of our Mechanical team as a Thermal Engineer developing a revolutionary satellite communications system. Connect the vision to the hardware, build it, test it and fly it.

AscendArc is a seed stage startup founded to revolutionize the satellite communications industry. We are looking for doers who want to work in a ground-breaking and fast-paced environment. Our success will depend on your energy, skill, and creativity.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of global spacecraft thermal models and subsystem trade studies.
• Define and implement thermal control system specifications and test requirements.
• Translate mission environments into thermal design requirements, balancing heritage systems with first-principles analysis.
• Influence hardware qualification plans and support test campaigns with analysis, instrumentation planning, and data interpretation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, with a focus in thermal sciences or related discipline
• 5+ years of experience in thermal analysis, preferably in spacecraft or aerospace applications
• Proficiency with industry-standard thermal modeling tools, Ansys Thermal Desktop preferred
• Strong understanding of thermal control systems, space environments, and heat transfer fundamentals
• Hands-on experience supporting thermal testing, including instrumentation planning and data analysis

Who We’re Looking For

We’re searching for exceptional talent at any career stage — from early-career engineers to senior and staff-level experts. Compensation will be adjusted accordingly. More than years of experience, we value high-caliber individuals with the drive and creativity to help launch Oregon’s first commercial communications satellite.

We’re looking for people who:

• Thrive in a cradle-to-grave design environment and take ownership from concept through launch.
• Bring energy, curiosity, and a responsible engineering mindset.
• Want to work alongside other exceptional people in an environment where great ideas rise to the top.

The base salary range for this position is $120,000-190,000/year. When determining an individual’s compensation, we consider several factors including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data, so pay for this role may vary from the amounts listed.

AscendArc is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor or legally protected status.