Thermal Architect & Design Lead, AI Hardware - Palo Alto [267148]

$188,000 - $414,000 yearly

Job Description

Tesla AI Hardware team is revolutionizing artificial intelligence. We are partnering with SpaceX to build a 1 TW orbital AI data center annually powered by Dojo—our custom supercomputer designed for the neural networks behind SpaceX, xAI, FSD, and Optimus.

We are looking for a visionary Thermal Architect and Design Lead to innovate and redefine data center cooling by moving AI workloads off-planet. As the technical lead for thermal architecture, you will design the next-generation cooling systems for orbital, high-density AI data centers in the vacuum of space with first principle thinking. You will solve the core challenge of space computing: rejecting megawatts of heat through radiation rather than air convection, ensuring AI hardware performance in microgravity.

The Role

  • Thermal Architecture Design: collaborate with SpaceX to design two-phase cooling, passive/active hybrid cooling, and large-scale, deployable radiators to manage high-power AI server loads (100kW+ per rack) in microgravity environments
  • Space-Grade Thermal Management: Develop advanced thermal control systems (heat pipes, pumped fluid loops, cryocoolers) designed for 24/7 reliability in a vacuum
  • Cross-Functional Leadership: Collaborate with satellite engineers, AI hardware teams, and launch providers to integrate thermal systems with power, communication, and structural components (ICDs, CONOPS)
  • Modeling & Validation: Use thermal simulation tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, ANSYS) to model heat dissipation and conduct structural/thermal design reviews for space hardware
  • Risk Mitigation: Perform technical trade studies (reliability vs. weight vs. cost) and develop contingency plans for thermal runaway scenarios in orbital environments

Requirements

  • Degree, or equivalent experience demonstrating exceptional ability
  • 10+ years of experience in high-performance data center cooling, spacecraft thermal design, or related high-density thermal management
Anthony Antonucci

Qualifications

Relevant experience in Tesla AI; strong problem-solving skills; commitment to Tesla mission.

Immediate Fill

No