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Thermal Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

BWXT

Thermal Hydraulic Core Design Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$86K - $136K/yr

As our Thermal Hydraulic Core Design Engineer, you will contribute to a variety of projects in a collaborative team environment, performing thermal analysis of advanced core designs that include a ...

BWXT

Thermal Hydraulic Core Design Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$86K - $136K/yr

As our Thermal Hydraulic Core Design Engineer, you will contribute to a variety of projects in a collaborative team environment, performing thermal analysis of advanced core designs that include a ...

CakeBoxx Technologies, LLC

Be Seen First

Electrical Engineer - Containers, Reefer & Thermal System

Mclean, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Electrical Engineer - Containers, Reefer & Thermal Systems Full-time | On-site - McLean, VA (No remote) Salary: 100,000 - 140,000 (DOE) U.S. Citizenship Required CakeBoxx Technologies is building the ...

Lynk

Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Performing thermal analyses of components and the entire system in all operational modes. * Interface with systems, harness, software, and electrical RF engineering teams to inform satellite and ...

TE Connectivity

SR R&D/PRODUCT DVL ENGINEER

Hampton, VA · On-site

$91K - $125K/yr

Experience designing temperature sensors or working as thermal Engineer for high or cryogenic temperatures is a plus. * Experience working with AD&M customers including OEM for LEO satellites ...

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Thermal Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$43.1K

$103.6K

$166.1K

How much do thermal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal engineer in Virginia is $103,631.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $127,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a thermal engineer?

Thermal engineers are professionals who specialize in the study and application of heat transfer and thermodynamics. They design, analyze, and optimize systems and components that involve heating or cooling processes, such as HVAC systems, engines, electronics, and power plants. Their work is essential in industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, and energy, where managing temperature is critical for performance and safety. Thermal engineers use advanced simulation tools and mathematical models to solve complex heat-related challenges and improve energy efficiency.

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

To thrive as a Thermal Engineer, you need a solid background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics, typically supported by a degree in mechanical or thermal engineering. Proficiency with simulation and modeling tools such as ANSYS, MATLAB, and CFD software, as well as familiarity with industry standards, is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in the field. These skills are crucial for designing efficient thermal systems, troubleshooting performance issues, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to meet project goals.

What is the difference between Thermal Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectThermal EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Mechanical Engineering, or ThermodynamicsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesigning thermal systems, heat transfer analysis, HVAC, aerospace, electronics coolingDesigning mechanical systems, structural components, manufacturing processes
Industry UsageElectronics, aerospace, HVAC, energy systemsAutomotive, manufacturing, robotics, aerospace

Thermal Engineers specialize in heat transfer, thermodynamics, and thermal system design, often working on electronics cooling and energy systems. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, covering mechanical design, structural analysis, and manufacturing. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Thermal Engineers focus more on thermal aspects within various industries, whereas Mechanical Engineers handle a wider range of mechanical systems.

How much do thermal engineers get paid?

Thermal engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while senior roles or specialized fields can pay over $120,000. Certifications and proficiency with simulation tools like ANSYS can influence salary levels.

What does a thermal engineer do?

As a thermal engineer, you maintain, create, or repair mechanical systems that involve a heat transfer process into other forms of energy. You analyze how mechanical heat sources interact with different physical and industrial systems. You test various components of heat transfer within a system, which sometimes involves chemical fluids and gas. You may work with large or small-scale heating or cooling equipment, from industrial heaters to airplane engines. Other duties and responsibilities require you to work in locations in need of heat or cooling mitigation, such as a power plant or landfill. Aerospace companies, public utilities, and other industrial firms hire thermal engineers.

What are some common challenges thermal engineers face when designing cooling systems for electronic devices?

Thermal Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing heat dissipation in increasingly compact and high-powered electronic devices, where space for cooling solutions is limited. Balancing performance, efficiency, and cost while ensuring reliability requires careful selection of materials and innovative thermal management techniques. They must also collaborate closely with electrical and mechanical engineers to integrate thermal solutions without compromising overall device functionality. Adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and staying updated on industry standards is essential for long-term success in this role.

What is the role of a thermal engineer?

A thermal engineer designs and analyzes systems to manage heat transfer and temperature regulation in products and processes. They use principles of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics, often utilizing simulation tools like CFD software, to ensure components operate within safe temperature ranges and improve energy efficiency.
More about Thermal Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Thermal Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Thermal Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Thermal Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Thermal Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Thermal Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Thermal Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Thermal Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Thermal Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Thermal Engineer jobs in VA? For Thermal Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Thermal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Thermal Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,631 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Senior Embedded Firmware Engineer - Thermal Control Systems

Boyd Thermal Solutions Inc.

Fredericksburg, VA • On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Boyd Thermal Solutions Inc. seeks a Firmware Design Engineer responsible for full lifecycle development of thermal control application firmware. The position emphasizes embedded system programming and development for Linux OS targets. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in Electrical Engineering or related fields, with at least 10 years of experience and solid understanding of hardware interfaces.

This role offers opportunities to collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams and enhance existing products while developing innovative firmware solutions for the semiconductor industry in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

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