1

Heat Transfer Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aeroballistics Research Engineer Company: Altus Engineering Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD ... heat transfer, and acoustics to predict and quantify projectile behavior. • Conduct modeling and ...

... heat transfer equipment design for a project of moderate size and complexity (e.g., continuing services project involving a single engineering discipline). Must be fully competent in performing all ...

$60 - $80/hr

Junior Thermal Research Engineer is responsible for supporting the design, modeling, and ... Focus or coursework in heat transfer, fluid dynamics, or thermal systems required * Laboratory ...

Thermal R&D Engineer

Anderson, SC · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Thermal R&D Engineer Full Time Technical Anderson, SC, US 17 days ago Requisition ID: 1081 Thermal ... Perform multiphase conjugate heat transfer CFD simulations under the guidance of senior engineers ...

Showing results 21-40

Heat Transfer Research Engineer information

See salary details

$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do heat transfer research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for heat transfer research engineer in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a heat transfer research engineer do?

A Heat Transfer Research Engineer studies and develops methods to efficiently transfer heat in various systems and applications, such as engines, power plants, or electronic devices. They use principles of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics to design experiments, analyze data, and create models to improve thermal performance. Their work often involves developing new materials, testing prototypes, and collaborating with other engineers to solve complex thermal challenges. This role is crucial in industries where temperature regulation and energy efficiency are critical.

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

To thrive as a Heat Transfer Research Engineer, you need a strong background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles, usually supported by a degree in mechanical or chemical engineering. Familiarity with simulation tools like ANSYS, MATLAB, and CFD software, as well as experience with laboratory instrumentation, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for success. These skills ensure accurate research, innovative solutions, and clear dissemination of findings for advancements in heat transfer applications.

What are some common challenges heat transfer research engineers face when working on new projects?

Heat Transfer Research Engineers often encounter challenges such as accurately modeling complex thermal systems, integrating new materials or technologies, and validating experimental data against simulations. Balancing project deadlines with the need for thorough experimentation and analysis is another common hurdle. Additionally, effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—such as materials scientists, mechanical engineers, and manufacturing specialists—is essential to translate research findings into practical solutions.

What is the difference between Heat Transfer Research Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectHeat Transfer Research EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Chemical, or Thermal Engineering; often specialized in heat transferBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; broader focus
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, industrial facilitiesManufacturing, design firms, consulting firms
Industry UsageThermal systems, energy, aerospace, automotiveVarious sectors including manufacturing, aerospace, energy
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Heat Transfer Research Engineers focus specifically on thermal phenomena, heat transfer processes, and experimental or computational research. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, covering design, analysis, and manufacturing across multiple disciplines. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Heat Transfer Research Engineers specialize in thermal systems, making them more aligned for roles involving heat transfer research and development.

What are popular job titles related to Heat Transfer Research Engineer jobs?

For Heat Transfer Research Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Heat Transfer Research Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,012 per year, or $51 per hour.

Boyd Thermal by Eaton Junior Thermal Research Engineer

Laconia, NH • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job DescriptionThe Junior Thermal Research Engineer is responsible for supporting the design, modeling, and experimental validation of advanced thermal management systems for next-generation electronics cooling applications in data center, semiconductor test and aerospace and defense applications.This role emphasizes thermal-fluid system modeling, data-driven engineering, and product development to accelerate design, optimization, and system-level performance prediction.Job Description:General Responsibilities:The Junior Thermal Research Engineer will work within a multidisciplinary engineering team to develop innovative thermal management and test solutions for high-performance electronics and data center systems.The role combines thermal system design, modeling, experimentation, and data science techniques, with a focus on enabling faster design cycles and improved system-level insight.Primary Responsibilities:Support the design and development of thermal management systems, including liquid cooling, two-phase cooling, and heat exchanger-based architecturesCooling system design including cold plates, cooling distribution units (CDUs) and passive two-phase solutions (heat pipes and vapor chambers)Develop and apply thermal-fluid modeling tools (steady-state and transient) for system-level performance prediction, including pressure drop, heat transfer, and coolant distributionImplement and use machine learning, AI and data-driven methodsSupport data center cooling system modeling, including rack-level and component-level thermal architecture analysisConduct design of experiments (DOE) and support experimental testing, including instrumentation, data acquisition, and validation of modelsCreate and maintain CAD models and engineering documentation (e.g., SolidWorks designs, P&IDs, drawings, and test plans)Assist in development of computational tools and simulation frameworks (Python, MATLAB) to support engineering decision-making and research activitiesSupport prototype development and testbed construction, including integration of thermal systems and measurement capabilitiesCollaborate with senior engineers and researchers to:Evaluate new cooling technologiesImprove system efficiency and performanceIdentify key design tradeoffsContribute to technical documentation, reports, and presentations of resultsAdditional Responsibilities:Support component and material selection for thermal systems (heat exchangers, sensors, cooling loops)Assist in manufacturing and assembly support, including prototype builds and testingUnderstand and evaluate trade-offs between cost, performance, and scalabilityParticipate in cross-functional collaboration with mechanical, electrical, and controls engineersExperience / Qualifications:Master’s or PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldFocus or coursework in heat transfer, fluid dynamics, or thermal systems requiredLaboratory experienceGraduate research experience in thermal-fluid sciences or cooling technologies strongly preferredTechnical Skills:Thermal & Fluid SystemsTwo-phase cooling, electronics cooling, refrigeration/HVAC systemsHeat exchanger design, boiling/condensation heat transferModeling & SimulationANSYS (Fluent, Icepak, Mechanical) or similar CFD toolsSystem-level thermal-fluid modelingData Science & OptimizationMachine learning surrogate modelingData-driven engineering approachesProgrammingPython and/or MATLAB for modeling, simulation, and data analysisLabVIEWExperimental MethodsDOE, instrumentation, DAQ, and experimental validationCommunicationsStrong communications skills to facilitate knowledge sharingPreferred Experience:Exposure to data center cooling or high-performance electronics thermal managementExperience developing reduced-order or surrogate models for thermal systemsFamiliarity with optimization-driven design workflowsExperience integrating modeling and experimental validation• All positions require use of information or access to hardware which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms regulations. All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident, Political Asylee, or Refugee.• Eaton will not consider applicants for employment immigration sponsorship or support for this position. This means that Eaton will not support any CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT plans, F-1 to H-1B, H-1B cap registration, O-1, E-3, TN status, I-485 job portability, etc.”• Candidate will not need sponsorship now or in the future.• No relocation benefit is being offered for this position. Only candidates that currently reside within the immediate geographical area (50 miles/80 kilometers) of the {Location} facility will be considered.Additional Information:Travel may be required up to 10 % of the timeOpportunity to gain exposure to and work with many cross functional teamsExposure to senior leaders within the Electrical Sector businesses – (leadership level/senior level roles only)EEO EMPLOYERInterview Requirements and Candidate Privacy NoticeAll positions may require participation in video and in-person interviews as part of the hiring process. All candidates will be evaluated based on job-related competencies, and all candidates’ privacy rights and data security will be protected in accordance with applicable laws.All Job Posting LocationsLaconiaRemote TypeOn-SiteEEO StatementWe are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees.Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.Eaton believes in second chance employment. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction history will be considered regardless of their arrest or conviction history, consistent with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act and other local laws.You do not need to disclose your conviction history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Eaton is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report.AccommodationsTo request a disability-related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search, application, or interview process, please call us at 1-800-836-6345 to discuss your specific need. Only accommodation requests will be accepted by this phone number. #J-18808-Ljbffr