Thermo-Mechanical Engineer

As a Thermo Mechanical Engineer, you join us at the forefront of the rapidly evolving New Space industry. At cosine, we design and build cutting-edge Earth observation and planetary science instruments for space missions.
 
 You'll contribute directly to the development of innovative optical instruments that are compact, high-performance, and destined for orbit on satellites and asteroid missions. From design through assembly and rigorous qualification testing, you'll be part of a small, high-level international team pushing the limits of optical space technology.

We are looking for a Thermo Mechanical Engineer to join our cosine Remote Sensing team, to work on the development of Earth observation and planetary science imaging instruments. These instruments will be mounted on a satellite of an asteroid mission that will be launched in the not too far away future.

There will be many other instruments and satellites to work on in the upcoming years. The job will entail design, building and testing of qualification and flight models. You will work on high-end systems in a small international team of high-level experts. 

About the Role

As a Thermo-Mechanical Engineer, you will:

• Design, develop, and analyze thermo-mechanical systems for space-based optical instruments.
• Support the full product lifecycle, from concept through design, integration, and qualification testing.
• Work closely with thermal analysts, structural engineers, optical designers, and systems engineers.
• Prepare technical documentation and contribute to design reviews and customer interactions.
• Ensure that systems meet the strict requirements of space applications: mechanical integrity, thermal control, and robustness in harsh environments.

You'll be working primarily on Earth observation instruments for civilian and defense missions, planetary science, as well as flight missions targeting asteroids for planetary defense.

What You’ll Work On

• Compact, high-end optical systems with integrated on-board processing and AI hardware.
• Instruments designed for nano satellites as well as larger space platforms.
• Qualification and environmental testing, including vibration, shock, and thermal vacuum tests.
• Engineering models and flight hardware, developed in-house from concept to launch.

What We’re Looking For

• Degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with thermo-mechanical design in space or high-tech environments.
• Familiarity with thermal analysis (e.g. ESATAN-TMS, Thermal Desktop) and mechanical simulation tools (e.g. FEM, SolidWorks Simulation, ANSYS).
• Understanding of materials and structural behavior under launch and space conditions.
• Experience with qualification standards for space (e.g. ECSS, NASA).
• Hands-on attitude — willing to support assembly, integration, and testing.
• 3-5 years of experience in a similar role

Nice to Have

• Experience with optical systems or instruments.
• Knowledge of nanosatellite platforms and/or onboard electronics.
• Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and space-quality assurance procedures.

Language skills

• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken in a professional working environment
• Dutch and/or Italian communication skills are a bonus.

Why cosine?

• End-to-end development: See your work go from idea to orbit, all under one roof.
• Innovation at the edge: Work with the latest tech, including experimental onboard AI systems.
• International impact: Collaborate with top engineers from across Europe in a flat, agile organization.
• World-class facilities: Our HQ in Sassenheim, The Netherlands, includes clean rooms, optical labs, thermal-vacuum chambers, and more.

cosine is a European technology company with subsidiaries in Germany and Italy, and a strong track record in developing optical measurement systems for space, aerial, and ground-based applications.

cosine designs and builds optical, electronic, mechanical, and software-driven systems that deliver precision, reliability, and long-term value. From satellites that monitor climate change to tools that explore other planets, our work powers missions that expand scientific discovery and strengthen infrastructure resilience.

We also believe in long-term responsibility. Our systems are built with longevity and adaptability. Knowledge is shared purposefully. Partnerships are built on trust. Whether we’re scaling a prototype to full production or reapplying solutions across markets, cosine works with intent and with vision.

We offer

• A full-time, onsite position in a dynamic, international environment.
• The opportunity to apply your expertise to innovative technologies and groundbreaking space applications.
• End-to-end project involvement — from design to launch — giving you real ownership and impact.
• A collaborative team of high-level experts passionate about pushing the boundaries of space engineering.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including clean rooms, optical labs, and test equipment.
• Good and flexible working conditions, including work-life balance, team events, and room for personal growth.

cosine is an innovative high tech company, with a dynamic and challenging working environment, and is always interested in applications ranging from excellent physicists with a strong technical interest to lab technicians with high standards. We offer a career in a young and international team, working with highly skilled colleagues who have a wide range of knowledge and experience. You are welcome to apply for one of our available positions or to send us an open application.