ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 1, 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:

What are popular job titles related to Thermal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

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 - Aircraft Avionics & Thermal Systems (R3930)

Shield AI

Boston, MA • On-site

$136K - $205K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Are you a passionate and innovative thermal engineer looking to help develop state of the art AI and aircraft products? Are you eager to make a positive difference in the world? Do you want to work alongside mission driven and values focused teammates? Shield AI is just the place for you!
 
As a Sr. Staff Thermal Engineer at Shield AI, you will lead the design, analysis, and integration of aircraft avionics thermal management systems, with opportunities to flex into aircraft-level thermal and fluid systems.
 
This role is best suited for an engineer who thrives on first-principles problem solving, is comfortable with ambiguous, open-ended challenges, and can bridge technical disciplines with strong communication and collaboration skills and the ability to simplify and communicate complex problems. The engineer will be a key contributor in shaping designs, mentoring peers, and ensuring robust thermal solutions that meet mission-critical aerospace requirements.
What you'll do:
  • Contribute to thermal analysis and design efforts for unmanned aerial vehicle avionics and thermal/fluid systems.
  • Develop and validate analytical, numerical, and computational models for heat transfer and fluid flow using hand calculations and CFD tools such as FloEFD.
  • Drive test planning, instrumentation, and data analysis to correlate models with experimental results.
  • Communicate technical findings clearly through executive-level briefings, design reviews, and written reports.
  • Proactively identify risks, propose solutions, and influence electrical and/or PCBA design direction.
Required qualifications:
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline.
  • Minimum 7 years of professional experience in avionics or electronics thermal engineering.
  • Strong expertise in heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation) and fluid mechanics.
  • Deep understanding of active and passive cooling solutions and their integration at component and system level.
  • Deep understanding of thermal management design elements including TIMs, spreaders, heat sinks, vapor chambers, heat pipes, and fans
  • Proficiency with thermal analysis and CFD tools (e.g., ANSYS Icepak, FloEFD, STAR-CCM+).
  • Proficiency with CAD design tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar.
  • Demonstrated experience applying first-principles reasoning to complex engineering problems.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of leading technical discussions and presenting to stakeholders.
  • Proven ability to learn and adapt quickly to new tools, processes, and technical challenges in a fast paced, startup environment.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Experience with high altitude aircraft avionics cooling and thermal design.
  • Familiarity with aircraft integration constraints (power, weight, volume, maintainability, safety).
  • Hands-on experience with thermal and fluid system testing, instrumentation, and validation.
  • Knowledge of materials and manufacturing methods relevant to thermal management (pumps, heat exchangers, composites, etc.)
  • Experience guiding trade studies, proposals, and customer interactions in aerospace or defense programs.
  • Background in multi-disciplinary system integration, spanning avionics, fluid systems, and systems engineering
$136,730 - $205,096 a year
#LI-MS2
#L4

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
###
 
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job

Apply