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Thermal Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Lightmatter

Sr. Staff Thermal Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$166K - $262K/yr

We are seeking a Thermal Engineer with strong expertise in thermal analysis and deep knowledge of semiconductor packaging technologies to join our team. In this role, you will work on leading-edge ...

Alloy Enterprises

Thermal Test Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

What You'll Do As a Thermal Test Engineer, you will be a critical part of our product development and manufacturing process. You will be responsible for leading our thermal test lab, ensuring the ...

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All JobsThermal Engineer JobsThermal Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Thermal Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$47.3K

$113.6K

$182K

How much do thermal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal engineer in Boston, MA is $113,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $140,100.00 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 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 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 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 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. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in heat transfer analysis or CFD software can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses and professional development opportunities.

Is thermal engineering in demand?

Thermal engineering is in demand across industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing, where thermal management and heat transfer are critical. The role often requires knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer analysis, and simulation tools, with job growth driven by advancements in technology and sustainable energy solutions.
More about Thermal Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Thermal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Thermal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

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For Thermal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Thermal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Thermal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Thermal Engineer jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Thermal Engineer job openings:

Thermal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Thermal Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,559 per year, or $54.6 per hour.

Sr. Staff Thermal Engineer

Lightmatter

Boston, MA • On-site

$166K - $262K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Lightmatter is leading the revolution in AI data center infrastructure, enabling the next giant leaps in human progress. The company invented the world's first 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage™, capable of connecting thousands to millions of processors at the speed of light in extreme-scale data centers for the most advanced AI and HPC workloads.
Lightmatter raised $400 million in its Series D round, reaching a valuation of $4.4 billion. We will continue to accelerate the development of data center photonics and grow every department at Lightmatter!
If you're passionate about tackling complex challenges, making an impact, and being an expert in your craft, join our team of brilliant scientists, engineers, and accomplished industry leaders.
Lightmatter is (re)inventing the future of computing with light!
We are seeking a Thermal Engineer with strong expertise in thermal analysis and deep knowledge of semiconductor packaging technologies to join our team. In this role, you will work on leading-edge packaging technologies to enable AI architectures that set new industry standards in compute power, performance, and efficiency. As a part of the package technology team, you will be responsible for leading thermal analysis required for product definitions, driving innovative thermal solutions, and conducting analysis and validation efforts to deliver package and system designs that meet product landing zones. Your work will contribute to advanced package and system designs that meet power dissipation, assembly, and reliability requirements while delivering system-level solutions for leading-edge products in data centers and high-end compute segments.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform thermal simulations to influence package and system design.
  • Propose novel thermal solutions to enable the Lightmatter product portfolio by investigating relevant technologies and design concepts.
  • Develop and validate thermal models for various packaging designs including modeling heat transfer, airflow, and thermal interactions within complex electronic assemblies.
  • Collaborate with design engineers to optimize thermal management solutions, including heat sinks, thermal interfaces, and cooling systems. Use CFD results to guide design iterations and improve thermal performance
  • Drive characterization and validation of thermal designs and electronic assemblies through lab-scale prototyping and/or initiating appropriate experiments with vendors.
  • Summarize and communicate findings to key stakeholders across Lightmatter, suppliers, and customers as required.
  • Develop analytical or semi-empirical models for quick-turn assessments of new product concepts.
  • Develop and maintain CFD tools, templates, and best practices to streamline the simulation process and improve efficiency.
  • Develop automation scripts using Python or MATLAB to improve modeling efficiency.
  • Write reports and document methodologies.

Required Qualifications:
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Chemical Engineering or a related engineering field.
  • 5 years of experience in package or system thermal analysis.
  • Deep knowledge of thermal conduction and convective heat transfer concepts.
  • Experience in designing, modeling, testing, sourcing, and deploying advanced thermal management technologies such as TECs, heat pipes, vapor chambers, thermal interface materials, phase change materials, as well as liquid and air cooling systems.
  • Experience in performing steady-state and transient thermal analysis using ANSYS Icepak, ANSYS Fluent, and/or Flotherm.
  • Experience in setting up and interpreting CFD simulations for complex geometries and boundary conditions.
  • Working knowledge of lab-scale validation techniques.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of fluid dynamics and assembly process modeling of 2D/3D packaging technologies and exposure to the thermal challenges associated with these technologies.
  • Experience in two-phase immersion cooling and single and two phase liquid flow
  • Knowledge of thermal technologies in high-performance computing and data centers.
  • Experience in developing thermal control algorithms to optimize device and system performance.
  • Experience with statistical analysis tools and techniques such as DOE and JMP.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work well in cross-functional teams.

We offer competitive compensation. The base salary range for this role determined based on location, experience, educational background, and market data.
Salary Range: total compensation goes beyond base salary, it also includes a new hire equity grant, annual performance-based equity, and other rewards that recognize your impact and contribution.
$166,000-$262,000 USD
Benefits
  • Comprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Savings Matching Program
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Paid Family Leave
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Flexible, hybrid workplace model
  • Equity grants (applicable to full-time employees)

Benefits eligibility may vary depending on your employment status and location. Lightmatter recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.
Export Control
Candidates should have capacity to comply with the federally mandated requirements of U.S. export control laws.

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