ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Internship Thermal Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Thermal Protection Engineer

Cape Canaveral, FL · On-site

... internships, and traditional professional experience all qualify). PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: * Master's degree in an engineering discipline. * Experience with development of material systems ...

Etched

Mech / Thermal Intern

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Job Summary Our mechanical/thermal engineering interns will work within the mechanical and thermal engineering organization, with a strong focus on NPI prototyping, manufacturing fixture development ...

Etched

Mech / Thermal Intern

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Job Summary Our mechanical/thermal engineering interns will work within the mechanical and thermal engineering organization, with a strong focus on NPI prototyping, manufacturing fixture development ...

Fermilab

Cryogenic Engineering Co-op

Batavia, NY

$21.26 - $25.93/hr

Under the direction of an expert mechanical engineer, project tasks may include cryogenic component ... Successful completion of cryogenics and/or thermal-fluids courses is preferred. * Familiarity with ...

Fermilab

Cryogenic Engineering Co-op

Batavia, IL · On-site

$21.26 - $25.93/hr

Under the direction of an expert mechanical engineer, project tasks may include cryogenic component ... Successful completion of cryogenics and/or thermal-fluids courses is preferred. * Familiarity with ...

Barton Malow

Project Engineer (Thermal)

Ashville, OH · On-site

Project Engineer (Thermal) REQ ID: 12203 POSITION SUMMARY Barton Malow Company is seeking Project ... construction internship experience. * OSHA 30 Hour certification preferred. * Well-organized ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsThermal Engineer JobsInternship Thermal Engineer Jobs

Internship Thermal Engineer information

See salary details

$13

$25

$38

How much do internship thermal engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship thermal engineer in the United States is $25.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Thermal Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Thermal Engineer, you typically need foundational knowledge in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics, usually gained through a degree in mechanical or a related engineering field. Familiarity with simulation software such as ANSYS, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, and an understanding of CAD tools are commonly required, while relevant coursework or certifications can be beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help interns collaborate and present findings clearly. These abilities ensure accurate analysis, efficient teamwork, and valuable contributions to thermal engineering projects.

What does an Internship Thermal Engineer do?

An Internship Thermal Engineer assists senior engineers in designing, analyzing, and testing thermal systems and components. Their tasks often include running simulations, conducting experiments, collecting data, and helping to improve cooling or heating solutions for various products. Interns typically work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, or energy, gaining hands-on experience with thermal management techniques and tools. This role is ideal for engineering students who want to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges while developing technical and teamwork skills.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an Internship Thermal Engineer?

As an Internship Thermal Engineer, you will typically assist in designing, analyzing, and testing thermal systems or components under the supervision of senior engineers. Your daily tasks may include running simulations, collecting and interpreting temperature data, preparing reports, and collaborating with cross-functional teams such as mechanical design or manufacturing. Interns often get exposure to real-world problem-solving and are encouraged to contribute ideas during team meetings. This hands-on experience not only builds technical skills but also provides insight into the workflow and challenges faced in thermal engineering roles.

What is the difference between Internship Thermal Engineer vs Thermal Engineer?

AspectInternship Thermal EngineerThermal Engineer
CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of engineering programBachelor's or higher in Mechanical or Thermal Engineering
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, entry-level projectsFull-time professional role, project leadership
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with thermal analysis, learning proceduresDesigning thermal systems, conducting analyses, troubleshooting
Industry UsageInternship programs, training rolesDesign firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive

The main difference between an Internship Thermal Engineer and a Thermal Engineer is experience level and responsibilities. Internships are designed for students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, while Thermal Engineers are full-time professionals responsible for thermal system design and analysis. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a full Thermal Engineer.

What cities are hiring for Internship Thermal Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Internship Thermal Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Thermal Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Thermal Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Thermal Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Thermal Engineer jobs include:
Internship Thermal Engineer jobs near you
Thermal Protection Engineer

Thermal Protection Engineer

SpaceX

Cape Canaveral, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
THERMAL PROTECTION ENGINEER
This position within the thermal protection system R&D team will develop and optimize low density alumina-silica refractory insulators. You will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop novel solutions in spacecraft reusability. You will work on designing, testing and analyzing materials for the next generation Starship spacecraft, designed to make humanity an interplanetary species. Role will require significant interface with the design & production engineers, providing the opportunity to continuously improve the production design processing as the team works to establish aircraft-like operations on Starship.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop and execute experiments, procedures and tests on developmental components.
  • Design and develop thermal protection hardware to enable and optimize vehicle's heatshield on material properties and cost reduction.
  • Operate and use ceramic and chemical lab tools and equipment.
  • Work with process engineers to develop scalable production solution.
  • Collaborate with engineering staff from other departments and highly skilled technicians on a daily basis.
  • Manage and track multiple priorities while maintaining a focus on common project goals.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, or other engineering discipline.
  • 1+ years of experience in high-temperature ceramic or technical glass (academic projects, internships, and traditional professional experience all qualify).

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree in an engineering discipline.
  • Experience with development of material systems from ideation to final product.
  • Experience working directly with system, design, and analysis engineers.
  • Familiarity with hypersonic, spaceflight, or re-entry operating environments, including material degradation mechanisms and failure modes.
  • Familiarity with TPS state-of-the-art and system level design.
  • Hands-on experience with TPS material, technologies and manufacturing.
  • Experience working on spacecraft or launch vehicles.
  • Experience in writing test plans and test procedures.
  • Experience interacting with CAD software and large CAD models.
  • Experience with data acquisition setup and field measurements.
  • Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills, with acute attention to detail.
  • Ability to rapidly change roles and responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment.
  • Ability to work well in a team environment and communicate clearly and accurately with a wide range of people.
  • Overall mental fitness with the ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment requiring prolonged mental concentration (under possible extended work hours).

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to pass Space Force background check for Cape Canaveral.
  • Occasional travel may be required.
  • Willingness to work outdoors.
  • 50 hour work weeks are typical, schedule varies depending on site operational needs, flexibility required.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply