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Cooling Tower Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Designer And Drafter

Kansas City, KS

$25 - $30/hr

Participate in cooling tower inspections as required, documenting findings and supporting follow-up engineering work. * Collaborate and communicate effectively with engineering, construction, and ...

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How much do cooling tower engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooling tower engineer in the United States is $52.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.38 and $62.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Cooling Tower Engineers in maintaining optimal system performance?

Cooling Tower Engineers often encounter challenges such as scaling, corrosion, and biological growth that can affect system efficiency and longevity. They must regularly monitor water quality, conduct inspections, and implement preventive maintenance to address these issues. Collaborating with facility managers and other engineers is crucial for troubleshooting operational problems and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Staying current with new technologies and best practices also helps in optimizing performance and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Cooling Tower Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectCooling Tower EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, specialized training in cooling systemsEngineering degree, broad mechanical systems knowledge
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power stations, HVAC systemsVarious industries including manufacturing, automotive, HVAC
Industry UsageSpecific focus on cooling towers and thermal systemsDesign, analysis, and maintenance of mechanical systems

Cooling Tower Engineers specialize in designing, maintaining, and optimizing cooling tower systems within industrial and power plant environments. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles require engineering credentials, Cooling Tower Engineers focus more on thermal and fluid systems, making them more specialized for cooling tower projects.

Is a cooling tower considered HVAC?

A cooling tower is not considered part of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, but it is often associated with HVAC in large industrial or commercial cooling applications. Cooling tower engineers focus on heat rejection and water treatment, which are related but distinct from typical HVAC functions. Knowledge of thermodynamics, water chemistry, and system design is essential for the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cooling Tower Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cooling Tower Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or chemical engineering, understanding of thermodynamics, and relevant industry experience, often supported by an engineering degree and professional certification (like PE). Familiarity with AutoCAD, 3D modeling software, and condition monitoring systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure cooling tower systems are designed, operated, and maintained efficiently, supporting safety and optimal performance in industrial environments.

What is a cooling engineer?

A cooling engineer specializes in designing, maintaining, and optimizing cooling systems such as cooling towers, HVAC systems, and refrigeration units. They often work in industries like power plants, manufacturing, and HVAC services, requiring knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and relevant safety standards. Certification and technical skills are important for this role.

How much does a 500 ton cooling tower cost?

A cooling tower engineer or contractor typically estimates that a 500-ton cooling tower costs between $150,000 and $300,000, depending on design, materials, and installation complexity. Costs can vary based on site requirements, specifications, and additional features such as drift eliminators or variable frequency drives.

How much do cooling tower workers make?

Cooling tower engineers and workers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled workers with specialized knowledge of HVAC systems and water treatment may earn higher wages, especially with overtime or supervisory roles.

What are Cooling Tower Engineers?

Cooling Tower Engineers are professionals who design, install, operate, and maintain cooling towers, which are systems used to remove excess heat from buildings or industrial processes. They are responsible for ensuring that cooling towers function efficiently, remain safe, and comply with environmental and health regulations. Their duties often include troubleshooting mechanical issues, optimizing energy use, and overseeing water treatment processes to prevent scaling, corrosion, and biological growth.
More about Cooling Tower Engineer jobs
What states have the most Cooling Tower Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Cooling Tower Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cooling Tower Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cooling Tower Engineer jobs are:
Cooling Tower Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooling Tower Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 39% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,336 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Structural Engineer Cooling Tower Industry

Composite Cooling

Aledo, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Salary:

Structural Engineer Cooling Tower Industry

Position Title: Structural Engineer
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Location: Composite Cooling Solutions, L.P. (Aledo, TX)

Position Summary

The Structural Engineer is responsible for the design, analysis, evaluation, and support of structural systems related to cooling towers and associated industrial equipment. This position applies to structural engineering principles to ensure safe, reliable, and cost-effective designs for new construction, repair, retrofit, and field installation projects. The ideal candidate will have experience in industrial structures, cooling towers, steel and concrete systems, and applicable engineering codes and standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Design and analyze structural components for cooling towers and related industrial systems.
  • Prepare structural calculations, engineering drawings, specifications, and technical reports.
  • Review and approve fabrication drawings and shop submittals.
  • Evaluate existing cooling tower structures for repairs, upgrades, or replacements.
  • Perform load calculations including wind, seismic, dead, live, and operational loads.
  • Coordinate with mechanical engineers, project managers, estimators, fabrication teams, and field personnel.
  • Assist with project planning, budgeting, and scheduling related to structural work.
  • Provide engineering support during fabrication, installation, and field erection activities.
  • Conduct field inspections and site assessments as needed.
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA standards, building codes, and industry regulations.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives for engineering processes and standards.
  • Participate in client meetings and provide technical expertise when required.

Qualifications

  • Bachelors degree in Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related engineering field required.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred or ability to obtain.
  • Minimum [35+] years of structural engineering experience preferred.
  • Experience in cooling towers, industrial construction, power generation, or heavy industrial environments strongly preferred.
  • Knowledge of structural steel, concrete, fiberglass, and wood framing systems.
  • Familiarity with ASCE, AISC, IBC, OSHA, and related engineering standards.
  • Proficiency in structural analysis and design software.
  • Experience with SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Revit, STAAD, RISA, or similar engineering software preferred.
  • Finite Element Analysis (FAE)
  • ASME, STMN
  • Piping Design Knowledge, Algor Pipe Pack software
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to visit construction and industrial job sites.
  • Ability to climb ladders and navigate elevated structures when required.
  • Ability to work in outdoor and industrial environments.

Work Environment

This position may involve both office and field work in industrial and construction environments, including power plants, manufacturing facilities, and cooling tower installations.

Preferred Experience

  • Cooling tower design and structural retrofit experience
  • Industrial steel structure design
  • Field inspection and condition assessment experience
  • Knowledge of vibration, dynamic loading, and rotating equipment support structures

Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Bonus opportunities

Equal Opportunity Statement

Composite Cooling Solutions, L.P. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values a diverse workforce committed to safety, quality, and teamwork.