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Heat Transfer Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Alfa Laval

Inside Sales Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

You will have the opportunity to be a "champion" for the heat transfer products being a liaison ... You will be a member of the Sales Engineering Team working with multiple products across different ...

Super Radiator Coils

Industrial Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

We are seeking an Industrial Engineer to help us reach that purpose by ensuring that we are leaders and best in the heat transfer industry while caring for our workforce, communities, and environment.

Jobs for Humanity

Electrical Engineers

Newport News, VA

$51.63 - $66.26/hr

Mk Industries Engineer Electrical 4 with Confidential Clearance Engineer - Electrical Newport News ... heat transfer systems for production, transmission, measurement, and use of energy. Applies ...

Progressive Design

Senior Process Engineer

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Current working knowledge of chemical engineering principles with an emphasis on fluid mechanics, mass and heat transfer, and thermodynamics * Working knowledge of Aspen or HYSIS * Must be ...

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Heat Transfer Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$35.2K

$95.3K

$166.6K

How much do heat transfer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for heat transfer engineer in Virginia is $95,283.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a heat transfer engineer do?

Heat Transfer Engineers often work on the design, analysis, and optimization of thermal systems such as heat exchangers, HVAC units, or cooling components in various industries. Their daily activities may include running thermal simulations, preparing technical reports, collaborating with project teams, and troubleshooting heat-related issues in existing systems. They also regularly participate in meetings to coordinate with design engineers, manufacturing teams, and clients, ensuring that solutions are practical and meet industry standards. This hands-on and collaborative nature of the role provides Engineers with continuous opportunities for learning and skill development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heat transfer engineer?

To thrive as a Heat Transfer Engineer, you need a solid background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles, typically supported by a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software such as ANSYS or COMSOL, as well as CAD tools, is highly valuable, and professional engineering licensure can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important for interfacing with multidisciplinary teams and presenting technical findings. These competencies are crucial to designing efficient thermal systems, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring projects meet safety and performance standards.

What is a heat transfer engineer?

A Heat Transfer Engineer is a specialized engineer who focuses on the study, design, and optimization of thermal systems. They analyze heat exchange in various applications, such as HVAC systems, power plants, and industrial processes, to improve energy efficiency and performance. Their work involves using simulation software, conducting experiments, and developing innovative solutions for temperature control and heat dissipation.

How much do heat transfer engineers make?

Heat transfer engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, with experienced professionals and those in specialized industries earning higher. Salaries can vary based on education, experience, location, and the complexity of projects handled. Certifications in thermodynamics or heat transfer can also influence earning potential.
What are the most commonly searched types of Heat Transfer Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Heat Transfer Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Heat Transfer Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Heat Transfer Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heat Transfer Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Heat Transfer Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Heat Transfer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heat Transfer Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,283 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Mechanical Systems Engineer - JobID-0219

Innovative Defense Technologies

Arlington, VA

$114K - $231K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description
About The Role: 
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineer – Compute Infrastructure & Integration to be part of our Advanced Capabilities team and based out of our Arlington, VA location.
 
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineer for IDT’s HCI, tactical compute and data-center modernization efforts. This position supports the design, integration, and sustainment of advanced computing, networking, and mission systems deployed in defense environments. This role combines traditional mechanical engineering principles with systems engineering methodologies to ensure hardware platforms, infrastructure components, and integrated solutions meet performance, thermal, reliability, and operational requirements.
 
The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in mechanical design, thermal management, systems integration, and technical architecture development. This individual will work closely with software, network, electrical, cybersecurity, and systems engineering teams to develop and deploy mission-critical solutions for Department of Defense customers.
 
Clearance & Location Requirements:
  • All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance. 
  • This is an on-site position. Requiring at least 3 days in office, based out of our Arlington, VA location.

Key Responsibilities
What You Will Do: 
  • Design and develop mechanical solutions supporting computing infrastructure, networked systems, ruggedized hardware, and mission systems.
  • Create and maintain detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and engineering drawings for system enclosures, racks, mounts, cooling solutions, and integrated hardware platforms.
  • Perform thermal analyses, heat transfer studies, airflow evaluations, and cooling assessments for high-performance computing and electronic systems.
  • Support system architecture development through the creation and interpretation of Unified Data Architecture (UDA) diagrams, interface control documents, data flow diagrams, and system integration artifacts.
  • Collaborate with systems engineers to define hardware, infrastructure, environmental, and operational requirements.
  • Participate in requirements decomposition, trade studies, system modeling, and architecture development activities.
  • Support the integration of computing, networking, storage, and mission systems into customer environments.
  • Analyze system performance, identify technical risks, and recommend engineering solutions to improve reliability, maintainability, and scalability.
  • Support engineering reviews, integration events, testing activities, and customer demonstrations.
  • Develop technical documentation, engineering reports, installation guides, and design packages.
  • Work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure successful implementation of integrated hardware and software solutions.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Who You Are (Required): 
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, related engineering discipline, or equivalent full-time professional experience.
  • 5+ years of engineering experience supporting complex technical systems.
  • Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA, or equivalent.
  • Experience performing thermal analyses, heat transfer studies, and cooling system evaluations.
  • Experience supporting systems engineering activities, including requirements development, architecture definition, and integration planning.
  • Ability to interpret and develop technical diagrams including UDA diagrams, system architecture diagrams, interface diagrams, and engineering workflows.
  • Understanding of data center infrastructure, computing hardware, networking equipment, or mission system architectures.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to travel up to 10% of the time as needed 
What Makes You Stand Out:
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition programs.
  • Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodologies and tools.
  • Experience with Cameo, MagicDraw, Enterprise Architect, or similar systems modeling tools.
  • Experience integrating servers, storage systems, networking equipment, or hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) solutions.
  • Experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD), thermal modeling, or environmental testing.
  • Familiarity with open architecture initiatives such as SOSA, CMOSS, FACE, and MOSA.
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity requirements and secure infrastructure design.
  • Experience supporting system-level integration, test, and evaluation activities.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced engineering environment.
  • Commitment to engineering excellence, quality, and mission success.
  • Ability to operate effectively between traditional engineering disciplines and IT-focused technical teams.
  • Strong systems-thinking mindset with the ability to understand interactions between hardware, software, networking, and operational requirements.
  • Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts to engineering leadership, program management, and customers.
  • Experience working in fast-paced development and integration environments.
  • 5+ years of compliance, risk management, or related experience within the defense or government contracting industry 
  • Experience with:
    • Ruggedized compute platforms 
    • Electronics packaging 
    • Thermal management of high-performance processing systems 
    • C5ISR systems integration 
    • Open architecture frameworks (CMOSS, SOSA, FACE, etc.) if applicable to your program portfolio
If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network.

Pay Range*: $114,000 - $184,000 or $135,000 - $231,000
This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience. 

Job Benefits
Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):

IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:  
  • Generous benefits package 
  • Competitive PTO 
  • Paid holidays 
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching 
  • 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)  
  • Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program 
  • Professional Development Resources 
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits 
  • Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards 
  • Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches 

EEO Statement:
IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.