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Space Mining Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thermal Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Thermal Engineer, Structures Seal Beach, CA - full time - onsite. AstroForge is seeking a highly ... Architect the end‑to‑end thermal control system for deep space mining spacecraft, including ...

$150 - $200/hr

Act as lead engineer for civil and geotechnical components of mining infrastructure projects, with ... We support well-being, encourage balance, and create space for people to succeed both ...

$80 - $100/hr

Space Coast, FL: Huntsville, ALposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R70052Application close ... mining engineering or related field.* Will have earned their degree within the last year and able ...

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Space Mining Engineer information

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$33K

$89.2K

$142K

How much do space mining engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for space mining engineer in the United States is $89,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a space mining engineer?

Space Mining Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and oversee systems and technologies used to extract resources from celestial bodies such as asteroids, the Moon, or other planets. Their work involves creating mining equipment that can operate in harsh space environments, planning extraction processes, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of off-Earth mining operations. Space Mining Engineers collaborate with scientists, aerospace engineers, and robotics experts to turn extraterrestrial mining from concept to reality. This field combines principles from mining engineering, robotics, and aerospace engineering to address the unique challenges of resource extraction beyond Earth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a space mining engineer?

To thrive as a Space Mining Engineer, you need a solid background in mining engineering, mechanical or aerospace engineering, and planetary geology, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, robotics, remote sensing technology, and possibly certifications in project management or space systems is typical. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and teamwork are essential soft skills for navigating the unique challenges of extraterrestrial environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safely and efficiently designing, operating, and maintaining mining operations in space, where innovation and precision are paramount.

What are some typical challenges faced by space mining engineers during mission planning and operations?

Space Mining Engineers often encounter unique challenges such as operating in microgravity or low-gravity environments, ensuring equipment reliability in harsh and unpredictable conditions, and addressing communication delays due to the vast distances involved. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including robotics, planetary science, and systems engineering experts—is crucial to develop solutions for extracting and processing resources safely and efficiently. Adapting to evolving technologies and mission requirements is also an ongoing aspect of the role, making flexibility and continuous learning important for success.

What are popular job titles related to Space Mining Engineer jobs?

For Space Mining Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Space Mining Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,183 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Thermal Engineer

Seal Beach, CA • On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Architect the thermal control system for the spacecraft, including subsystems such as radiators, insulation, heaters, sensors, and coatings.

  • Develop and execute environmental tests to validate thermal design performance and analyze test data to refine the design.

  • Collaborate with other engineering teams to understand system constraints and optimize thermal design to meet mission objectives.


Job description

Thermal Engineer, Structures

Seal Beach, CA – full time – onsite.

Job Description

AstroForge is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Thermal Engineer to play a crucial role in the design and operation of our deep‑space mining spacecraft. The Engineer will architect the thermal management systems from concept through detailed design, analysis, and testing. This role requires a strong understanding of spacecraft thermal principles, excellent problem‑solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to develop innovative thermal solutions that ensure mission success.

Responsibilities
  • Architect the end‑to‑end thermal control system for deep space mining spacecraft, including subsystems such as radiators, multi‑layer insulation, heaters, sensors, and thermal coatings. Conduct high‑level conceptual trades to evaluate architectural options based on mission requirements, environmental conditions, and system performance.
  • Develop and execute thermal vacuum, bake‑out, and other environmental tests to validate thermal design performance against predictions. Apply “test‑like‑you‑fly” principles to ensure test setups accurately simulate the operational environment. Analyze test data and correlate results with thermal models to refine design.
  • Collaborate closely with structural, electrical, propulsion, and mission operations teams to understand system‑level thermal constraints and interfaces. Participate in thermal trades to optimize overall spacecraft design and operational strategies to achieve mission objectives while maintaining thermal integrity.
  • Document all thermal analysis, design decisions, test plans, and results in clear and concise reports. Establish and improve internal tools and processes to streamline thermal design iterations, enhance efficiency, and ensure knowledge capture within the team.
  • Provide constructive technical and non‑technical feedback to peers during design reviews and contribute to improving key company processes.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline such as Aerospace, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in spacecraft thermal conceptual and detailed design, development, and operations.
  • Familiarity with spacecraft environments, including vacuum, solar radiation, and deep‑space temperatures.
  • Strong understanding of fundamental heat‑transfer principles and thermodynamics.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform thermal analysis, including hand calculations and basic modeling.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
  • Ability to work onsite in Seal Beach, CA.
Preferred Skills and Experience
  • 5+ years of experience in spacecraft thermal conceptual and detailed design, development, and operations.
  • Experience with CAD and thermal modeling tools for 3D and reduced‑order modeling, including NX and Simcenter Space Systems Thermal (or similar).
Benefits
  • 100% paid medical, dental, and life insurance coverage.
  • Vision and FSA benefits available.
  • 3 weeks of PTO + 1 week of sick time.
  • 10 paid holidays.
  • Retirement savings plan – 401(k) with company match.
  • Equity on the ground floor of a startup.
Salary

Level II: $97,250 – $108,500
Level III: $106,250 – $122,500
Level IV: $120,250 – $148,500

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, you must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Government.

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