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Cryogenic Engineering Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Isys Technologies

Thermal Engineer

Boulder, CO

Work in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) design environment with other engineering disciplines such as Systems, Electrical, Project, Production, M&P, Quality and Cryogenic Engineering * Responsible ...

Isys Technologies

Thermal Engineer

Boulder, CO

Work in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) design environment with other engineering disciplines such as Systems, Electrical, Project, Production, M&P, Quality and Cryogenic Engineering * Responsible ...

Isys Technologies

Thermal Engineer

Boulder, CO

$175K - $220K/yr

Work in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) design environment with other engineering disciplines such as Systems, Electrical, Project, Production, M&P, Quality and Cryogenic Engineering * Responsible ...

Isys Technologies

Thermal Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$175K - $220K/yr

Work in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) design environment with other engineering disciplines such as Systems, Electrical, Project, Production, M&P, Quality and Cryogenic Engineering * Responsible ...

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Cryogenic Engineering information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cryogenic engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cryogenic Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, chemical, or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience in low-temperature systems. Familiarity with CAD software, cryogenic process simulation tools, and safety regulations, as well as certifications in cryogenics or pressure systems, are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this field. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient design, operation, and maintenance of cryogenic systems, which are vital for applications in industries like aerospace, medical, and energy.

What is cryogenic engineering?

Cryogenic engineering is a specialized field of engineering that focuses on the production, maintenance, and application of extremely low temperatures, typically below -150°C (-238°F). This discipline involves the design and operation of equipment and systems used to produce, store, and transport liquefied gases such as liquid nitrogen, helium, and hydrogen. Applications of cryogenic engineering can be found in industries like aerospace, medical technology, energy, and scientific research, where materials and processes require ultra-low temperatures. Cryogenic engineers work on challenges related to thermal insulation, material properties at low temperatures, and safe handling of cryogenic fluids.

What is the difference between Cryogenic Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectCryogenic EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Cryogenic Engineering or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industries handling low-temperature systemsFactories, design offices, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageSpecialized in low-temperature systems, liquefied gases, cryogenics researchBroad applications including machinery, automotive, aerospace

While both fields require engineering degrees, Cryogenic Engineering focuses on low-temperature systems and liquefied gases, often working in specialized labs and industries. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of mechanical systems and industries, making Cryogenic Engineering a niche within the broader mechanical field.

What are some common challenges faced by cryogenic engineers in daily operations?

Cryogenic engineers often work with extremely low temperatures, which presents unique challenges such as material brittleness, thermal contraction, and the need for specialized insulation. Ensuring safety and preventing leaks or contamination are critical, as even minor failures can have significant consequences. Additionally, cryogenic engineers frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and safety engineers, to design, test, and maintain complex systems. Adapting to new technologies and strict regulatory standards is also a regular part of the job.

How much does a cryogenic engineer make?

The average salary for a cryogenic engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in cryogenic systems and certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

What does a cryogenic engineer do?

A cryogenic engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that handle extremely low-temperature fluids and gases, such as liquid nitrogen or helium. They work on applications like superconducting magnets, space technology, and liquefied gases, often using specialized tools and safety protocols to ensure system efficiency and safety.
What are popular job titles related to Cryogenic Engineering jobs in Colorado? For Cryogenic Engineering jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cryogenic Engineering jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Cryogenic Engineering jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Cryogenic Engineering jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Cryogenic Engineering job openings:
Cryogenic Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cryogenic Engineering job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Cryogenic Scientist

National Institute of Standards and Technology

Boulder, CO • On-site, Remote

$83K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Summary
PML's Quantum Sensors Division is hiring a Cryogenic Scientist to develop, test, and optimize advanced cryogenic systems for quantum information science, improve cryocooler performance, advance refrigeration technologies through fundamental and applied research, and publish and present scientific findings.
This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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The mission of NIST's Quantum Sensors Division is to develop and apply advanced quantum-based photon and particle sensors that enable highly precise measurements across the electromagnetic spectrum. Through pioneering research, collaboration with industry and academia, and innovation in superconducting and cryogenic technologies, the Division advances measurement science in fields ranging from quantum computing and fundamental physics to nuclear science and astronomy. If hired for this role, your major duties will include:
  • Developing, testing, and optimizing advanced cryogenic systems and refrigeration technologies to support quantum information science applications.
  • Conducting independent research to improve cryocooler performance, including efficiency, size, weight, power, and overall system capability.
  • Performing fundamental and applied research to advance the science of cryogenic refrigeration and develop novel cooling technologies.
  • Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting technical results at scientific conferences.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. citizenship
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service
  • Suitable for Federal employment
  • Bargaining Unit Position: No

Qualifications
BASIC REQUIREMENTS:
A. Degree: Engineering. To be acceptable, the program must:
  1. lead to a bachelor's degree in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by ABET; or
  2. include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics:

  • statics, dynamics
  • strength of materials (stress-strain relationships)
  • fluid mechanics, hydraulics
  • thermodynamics
  • electrical fields and circuits
  • nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties)
  • and any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.

OR
B. Combination of education and experience college-level education, training, and/or technical experience that furnished (1) a thorough knowledge of the physical and mathematical sciences underlying engineering, and (2) a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques and their applications to one of the branches of engineering. The adequacy of such background must be demonstrated by one of the following:
  1. Professional registration or licensure Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any State, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico. Absent other means of qualifying under this standard, those applicants who achieved such registration by means other than written test (e.g., State grandfather or eminence provisions) are eligible only for positions that are within or closely related to the specialty field of their registration. For example, an applicant who attains registration through a State Board's eminence provision as a manufacturing engineer typically would be rated eligible only for manufacturing engineering positions.
  2. Written Test Evidence of having successfully passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination or any other written test required for professional registration by an engineering licensure board in the various States, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
  3. Specified academic courses Successful completion of at least 60 semester hours of courses in the physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences and that included the courses specified in the basic requirements under paragraph A. The courses must be fully acceptable toward meeting the requirements of an engineering program as described in paragraph A.
  4. Related curriculum Successful completion of a curriculum leading to a bachelor's degree in an appropriate scientific field, e.g., engineering technology, physics, chemistry, architecture, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, or geology, may be accepted in lieu of a bachelor's degree in engineering, provided the applicant has had at least 1 year of professional engineering experience acquired under professional engineering supervision and guidance. Ordinarily there should be either an established plan of intensive training to develop professional engineering competence, or several years of prior professional engineering-type experience, e.g., in interdisciplinary positions. (The above examples of related curricula are not all-inclusive.)

IN ADDITION TO THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must also have 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST) level. Specialized Experience is defined as:
  • Experience researching helium compressors for the purposes of cryogenic refrigeration.
  • Experience performing exergy analyses on complex machines.

OR
Master's or equivalent graduate degree as defined in the basic requirements.
OR
A combination of graduate education and specialized experience as defined in the additional requirements.
The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.
If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration
Education
This position has an education requirement. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However, an official copy will be required before a final offer of employment.
Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with course-by-course listing) is required with your application.
Additional information
This position is covered under NIST's Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS), a pay-for-performance system with excellent HR flexibilities to help NIST recruit and retain top talent. Learn more about the APMS here!
  • We may share your application package with other selecting officials. Additional selections may be made through this vacancy.
  • Click all links in this vacancy announcement to view additional information or instructions.
  • You MUST select at least ONE ELIGIBILITY to be considered for this position.
  • All documents submitted for this announcement must be legible to make qualification or eligibility determinations.

  • The position may be non-competitively converted to a career or career-conditional appointment without further competition.
  • The trial period is for the duration of the term appointment.
  • The term may be extended for up to 6-years.

NIST strives to build a flexible and encouraging work environment to bring out the best in our employees. To help our employees balance responsibilities at home and at work, NIST offers a variety of work-life flexibilities. For more information, please visit our Careers website.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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