Principal Thermal Architect

MDA Space (TSX : MDA) is a trusted mission partner of the global space industry, creating the space between the proven and the possible. As a pioneer in robotics, satellite systems, and geospatial intelligence, with a 55-year history of world firsts and over 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications, Earth and space observation, and space infrastructure and exploration. With a team of over 5,500 space experts in Canada, the US, and the UK, MDA Space has the knowledge and know-how to turn a client's bold vision into a deliverable mission, combining a unique mix of experience, technical excellence, and the sense of wonder that has been in our DNA from day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on Earth and in the stars to change the world for the better, we'll take you there.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career within the new space economy? We would love to hear from you

We are looking for a Principal Thermal Architect within our Satellite Systems team at our Montreal office.

As the world's leading independent commercial supplier of antennas, payloads, and electronics for communication satellites and radars, our team has successfully contributed to hundreds of missions over the past 60 years. Backed by a long history in a wide range of solutions delivered to customers worldwide, our Satellite Systems team continues to grow and evolve on the ground and in the stars.

We are a dream team made up of passionate, collaborative, and driven individuals, and we are constantly looking for others to join TeamMDA to spark new and innovative approaches to problem-solving that push us to improve life on and above Earth. If you are excited to expand our place in space and wish to inspire the next generation, we will take you there.

We have entered a new era of exploration and development, and MDA invites anyone who wants to get in and be a part of it. As an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, integrity, and collaboration, we are committed to strengthening MDA's and Canada's leadership status in this new chapter.

Role:

Within a multidisciplinary engineering team, the senior thermal architect plays a key role in the design, analysis, and validation of thermal control for satellites and satellite subsystems. This position involves leading thermal optimization studies, supervising the creation of thermal mathematical models (TMM), and overseeing thermal testing to ensure reliable space system performance in the extreme thermal environments of space. The candidate must have an in-depth understanding of heat transfer principles, extensive experience in satellite thermal management, strong analytical skills, thorough knowledge of multidisciplinary subsystem interactions, and a proven ability to innovate by introducing new technologies to solve complex challenges. They must also demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibility:

• Lead thermal design at the satellite and subsystem levels.
• Solve thermal challenges specific to electronic subsystems such as high-power processors and RF systems, and ensure the effective integration of thermal solutions with mechanical and electrical designs.
• Perform thermal optimization analyses to maximize system performance, weight, and power consumption while meeting mission requirements.
• Evaluate thermal control strategies, including active and passive systems (MLI surface finishes, thermal straps, radiators, heat pipes, etc.).
• Supervise the creation of high-fidelity thermal models to analyze behavior in various operating scenarios, including test, launch, and on-orbit phases.
• Document thermal concepts and present them during formal reviews.
• Develop test plans and procedures to demonstrate the validity of thermal concepts and analyze test reports.
• Supervise thermal testing, including thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing and ambient pressure thermal cycling tests.
• Act as a thermal reference in cross-functional teams by working closely with systems specialists and mechanical designers.
• Support the integration of thermal components with satellite assemblies.
• Propose and implement innovative solutions to thermal challenges to improve performance and reduce costs.
• Stay informed of industry advances and leverage them to design and deliver innovative and cost-effective solutions.

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Minimum bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or equivalent.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in space thermal engineering at the satellite and subsystem level, preferably in a commercial environment.
• Knowledge of thermal design standards (ECSS, NASA, MIL-STD).
• Experience in thermal modeling, preferably with Siemens NX Space Systems Thermal.
• Experience in thermal testing, p