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Senior Thermal Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Thermal Engineer

Irvine, CA · Remote

$150K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer to lead the design, analyze, test, and implementation of satellite systems. You will work closely with the Turion Space team across software and hardware ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$103K - $141K/yr

ABOUT THE JOB Anduril's Rocket Motor Systems group is seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer to join our team. The Rocket Motor Systems group designs, develops, and manufactures next-generation solid ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $163K/yr

Senior Thermal Engineer A bout Gravitics At Gravitics, we're not exploring space-we're building it. We're creating the infrastructure for a thriving space economy, enabling humanity to flourish ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

About the Job We are looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer to join our team in Costa Mesa, CA. In this role, you will own thermal design and analysis for advanced defense hardware across drones ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Seattle, WA

$118K - $163K/yr

Senior Thermal Engineer A bout Gravitics   At Gravitics, we're not exploring space--we're building it. We're creating the infrastructure for a thriving space economy, enabling ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

About the Job We are looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer to join our team in Costa Mesa, CA. In this role, you will own thermal design and analysis for advanced defense hardware across drones ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Senior Thermal Engineer A bout Gravitics   At Gravitics, we're not exploring space--we're building it. We're creating the infrastructure for a thriving space economy, enabling ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

About the Job We are looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer to join our team in Costa Mesa, CA. In this role, you will own thermal design and analysis for advanced defense hardware across drones ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$117K - $161K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer to join our rapidly growing analysis team in Lexington, MA. In this role, you will be responsible for performing thermal analysis and taking ownership of ...

PhD in Thermal/Mechanical Engineering (or closely related field). * Strong expertise in heat transfer, fluid dynamics, thermal system design . * Proven experience developing liquid cooling systems ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$126K - $167K/yr

ABOUT THE JOB Anduril's Rocket Motor Systems group is seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer to join our team. The Rocket Motor Systems group designs, develops, and manufactures next-generation solid ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$146K - $194K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer to join our rapidly growing analysis team in Lexington, MA. In this role, you will be responsible for performing thermal analysis and taking ownership of ...

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Senior Thermal Engineer information

See salary details

$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior thermal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior thermal engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Senior Thermal Engineer do?

A Senior Thermal Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing thermal management systems in products or processes. They use advanced simulation tools and engineering principles to ensure components operate within safe temperature ranges, often in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics. Their role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to solve complex heat transfer challenges, improve energy efficiency, and support product development from concept to production. Additionally, they may mentor junior engineers and contribute to research and development efforts.

What is the difference between Senior Thermal Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectSenior Thermal EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Mechanical Engineering, or Thermodynamics; certifications like ASME or HVAC licensesBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; similar certifications often applicable
Work EnvironmentDesigning thermal systems, heat transfer analysis, HVAC, aerospace, or energy sectorsDesign, analysis, manufacturing, and testing across various industries including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, energy companies, HVAC providers, aerospaceManufacturers, consulting firms, product design companies, industrial sectors

While both roles require a background in mechanical engineering, Senior Thermal Engineers specialize in heat transfer, thermal system design, and energy efficiency, often within specialized sectors like aerospace or energy. Mechanical Engineers have broader responsibilities across various mechanical systems. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in focus and expertise.

What are the typical challenges a Senior Thermal Engineer faces when collaborating with cross-functional teams on new product development?

Senior Thermal Engineers often work closely with mechanical, electrical, and design teams to ensure thermal management solutions align with overall product requirements. A common challenge is balancing thermal performance with constraints such as size, weight, cost, and manufacturability. Effective communication and early involvement in the design process are key to addressing potential issues before they become costly or difficult to resolve. Additionally, integrating feedback from testing and simulations into collaborative workflows is essential for optimizing solutions and meeting project deadlines.

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

To thrive as a Senior Thermal Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, advanced knowledge of thermodynamics and heat transfer, and several years of relevant experience. Proficiency in simulation tools like ANSYS, FloTHERM, and CAD software, as well as familiarity with relevant industry standards, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and complex projects. These competencies are critical for designing effective thermal solutions, ensuring system reliability, and driving innovation in high-performance environments.
More about Senior Thermal Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Thermal Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior 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 Senior Thermal Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Thermal Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Thermal Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Thermal Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Senior Thermal Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.
Senior Thermal Engineer

Senior Thermal Engineer

Turion Space

Irvine, CA • Remote

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

At Turion Space, we’re building spacecraft to secure Earth and expand humanity’s reach beyond it.
We are seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer to lead the design, analyze, test, and implementation of satellite systems. You will work closely with the Turion Space team across software and hardware systems to maximize satellite capabilities. Your creativity, experience, and ambition will directly impact the architecture of the vehicle’s systems as the missions increase in complexity.
This is full-time, exempt position. You will join our team in a hybrid capacity based out of our Irvine, California headquarters.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead thermal design of hardware, from initial high-level layout and analysis down to validation of performance with ground tests

  • Consult with other disciplines as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Thermal Analysis

  • Provide ongoing mentorship to junior engineers

  • Automate workflow to reduce engineering investment in the design cycle

  • Build and control system-level thermal models

  • Execute thermal design trades to maximize satellite mission performance

  • Select in-house testing equipment and external testing facilities

  • Design and execute TVAC testing, including thermal balances

  • Perform hand-calculations and compare results against model outputs

  • Pursue operational simplicity

  • Produce quality documentation of your work to reduce miss-rate and improve efficiency

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

  • 5+ years of experience in the Space industry as a Thermal Engineer

  • Expertise with Thermal Desktop

  • Proficiency performing hand calculations

  • Experience with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)

  • Must be able to obtain Secret and/or TS/SCI clearance

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

  • Experience guiding junior engineers and providing constructive feedback

  • A passion for working in small, fast-moving teams

Senior Thermal Engineer Salary: $150,000 - $200,000 USD

Employees may be asked to support alternate shifts, extended shifts, and/or travel during peak work periods.
ITAR Requirements:

This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. 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.
Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. In addition to a competitive base salary and company stock, determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and market demand, full-time employees are eligible for:

  • Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.

  • Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan with a 3% Employer Direct Contribution to help you plan for your future.

  • Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge.

  • Parental Leave: Paid parental leave following the birth of a newborn or adoption.

  • Emotional Wellbeing: A no-cost Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your household’s emotional health and wellbeing.

  • Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing internal training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.

  • Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment.


We are dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our team members, recognizing that our collective success is built upon the well-being and satisfaction of each individual.

Turion Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Turion Space 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.

Compensation Range: $150K - $200K