About this role
As a Thermal Space Engineer Lead, you will join our team in Stevenage to support our activities within the Space sector.
You will take ownership of the complete thermal system architecture for spacecraft and satellite programmes. Operating at system level, you will define, develop, and validate thermal control strategies to ensure mission success within the harsh space environment where radiation is the dominant heat transfer mechanism.
This role requires proven experience within space programmes — aerospace-only backgrounds will not be suitable.
Location: StevenageOn Site: HybridClearance: ClearableExperience Level: Mid- Level to SeniorKey Responsibilities:
Define and own the thermal control system (TCS) architecture for spacecraft or satellite platformsLead thermal modelling and analysis across full mission profilesDevelop thermal design solutions including radiators, MLI, coatings, heat pipes, and conductive interfacesEnsure compliance with ECSS and programme-specific standardsSupport environmental test campaigns including thermal vacuum (TVAC)Interface with systems, structural, AIT, and payload teams to ensure integrated thermal performanceProvide technical leadership and oversight across the thermal discipline Required Skills:
Demonstrable experience working on spacecraft, satellite, or space system programmesStrong expertise in radiative heat transfer and thermal balance in space environmentsExperience defining full thermal system architecture at platform levelProven experience with thermal modelling and analysis toolsDeep understanding of space environmental constraints (vacuum, radiation, orbital cycling)Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, or equivalent military experience.Significant experience within space programmes (LEO, GEO, deep space, or equivalent)Desirable Skills:
Experience leading thermal design for flight hardwareFamiliarity with ECSS standardsExperience supporting qualification and environmental test campaignsKnowledge of material selection, outgassing, and contamination control for space applications Why join us?
We bring together entrepreneurial, tech-driven people to deliver innovative solutions for leading companies.
At ALTEN, you’ll work on exciting projects, supported by ongoing learning, mentoring, and clear career development tailored to your goals.
Join a passionate team and help build tomorrow, today.
In short you get:
A personalised career path and a rewarding management style A huge diversity of engineering projects and industriesPrivate Medical InsuranceCycle & Tech Scheme Employee assistance programmeLife insurance & Pension SchemeSocial atmosphere, regular gatherings & team buildingsFlexible way of working (role dependent)We are proud to support the Armed Forces Covenant & actively encourage applications from members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists, service leavers, and military spouses/partners. We recognise the value of military skills and experience and are committed to ensuring that no applicant is unfairly disadvantaged during our recruitment and selection processes.
ALTEN is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and values the strength that comes from a global mix of backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of background or protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
This role may require you to have or be willing to go through Security Clearance. As part of the onboarding process candidates will be asked to complete a Baseline Personnel Security Standard; details of the evidence required to apply may be found on the government website Gov.UK. If you are unable to meet this and any associated criteria, then your employment may be delayed, or rejected . Details of this will be discussed with you at interview.