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Thermal Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Quality Control Inspector

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Inspect products to blueprint, engineering drawings, and work orders. * Verify supplier ... Employment with Thermal Vac Technology is not influenced in any manner by race, color, religion ...

This is a hybrid role that sits deliberately at the intersection of three disciplines - BMS/controls, systems engineering, and pack hardware/thermal - rather than living entirely inside one. You will ...

Battery Systems / Pack Engineering Reports to: Head of Battery Systems Engineering (or Pack ... Own pack thermal / cooling system development, from concept through validated performance * Analyze ...

Thermal Management: Incorporate thermal mitigation strategies such as fans, heat sinks, conductive paths, and airflow guides. * Mass & Volume Budgets: Ensure adherence to payload constraints ...

Thermal Management: Incorporate thermal mitigation strategies such as fans, heat sinks, conductive paths, and airflow guides. * Mass & Volume Budgets: Ensure adherence to payload constraints ...

FEA Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

Develop finite element models for thermal and thermo-mechanical simulations. Perform steady-state ... Collaborate with design engineers to improve product performance and reliability. Hands-on ...

Thermal Management: Incorporate thermal mitigation strategies such as fans, heat sinks, conductive paths, and airflow guides. * Mass & Volume Budgets: Ensure adherence to payload constraints ...

Pack Performance Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field ... Experience with pack thermal design and validation -- thermal cycling, thermal runaway, and DVP

Showing results 41-60

Thermal Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$45.4K

$109K

$174.7K

How much do thermal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal engineer in Riverside, CA is $109,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $134,600.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Thermal Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Thermal Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Thermal Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Thermal Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Thermal Engineer jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Thermal Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Thermal Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,050 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Staff Application Engineer (Electronics Thermal Management) - Southern California (13730)

Synopsys

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$112K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

General Information
Job Title
Staff Application Engineer (Electronics Thermal Management) - Southern California (13730)
Job ID
13730
City
Irvine
State/Province
California
Date Posted
09-Dec-2025
Job Category
Engineering
Job Subcategory
Applications Engineering
Hire Type
Employee
Remote Eligible
No
Base Salary Range: $112000 - $168000
Descriptions & Requirements
Job Description and Requirements
We Are:
At Synopsys, we drive the innovations that shape the way we live and connect. Our technology is central to the Era of Pervasive Intelligence, from self-driving cars to learning machines. We lead in chip design, verification, and IP integration, empowering the creation of high-performance silicon chips and software content. Join us to transform the future through continuous technological innovation.
You Are:
You are a passionate engineering professional with a deep curiosity for solving complex thermal management challenges in electronics. With a strong foundation in mechanical engineering and a specialized focus on thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and computational fluid dynamics (CFD), you thrive in environments where innovation meets real-world applications. Your experience with engineering simulation tools-especially Ansys products such as Fluent, Icepak, or Mechanical-sets you apart as a trusted subject matter expert. Your expertise is matched by your desire to collaborate closely with customers, understanding their unique design workflows, and translating their requirements into state-of-the-art simulation solutions. You are comfortable working independently as well as within multi-disciplinary teams and are adept at communicating complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
You are driven by a commitment to continuous learning, staying ahead of industry trends, and sharing your knowledge through training, presentations, and customer engagements. Your professional demeanor, business acumen, and strong organizational skills enable you to manage multiple priorities effectively while maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction. You are excited by the prospect of influencing product development, supporting sales and marketing efforts, and making a tangible impact on both Synopsys and the broader electronics industry.
Your communication skills are second to none-whether delivering compelling presentations, leading engaging training sessions, or working cross-functionally with development teams, you know how to make technical concepts accessible and inspiring. You are organized, proactive, and driven to exceed expectations, managing your time efficiently, and approaching every project with a sense of urgency and professionalism. Your curiosity fuels your desire to stay at the forefront of technology, and you welcome opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to a culture of innovation. Above all, you value collaboration and are eager to mentor others, share knowledge, and celebrate collective success.
This opportunity is preferably based in or near Irvine, CA and the hired individual will support customers from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Lead and coordinate all technical activities throughout the sales opportunity lifecycle, including technical discovery, product presentations, demonstrations, and evaluations.
  • Engage directly with customers to understand their product design needs and engineering workflows, providing expert guidance on leveraging Ansys simulation solutions for electronics thermal management.
  • Develop and deploy differentiating simulation solutions using the Ansys platform, integrating them seamlessly into customer design processes.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert, deepening your industry knowledge and providing guidance to both customers and internal teams.
  • Collaborate with product development teams to translate customer requirements into innovative product features and best practices
  • Test rigorously new Ansys product releases on real-world industrial problems and contribute to the creation of application best practices.
  • Support field and digital marketing initiatives, authoring conference presentations and technical content and thought leadership within the electronics thermal domain

  • Provide consulting services and conduct training classes for customers, enabling them to maximize the value of Ansys solutions.
  • Travel domestically to customer sites, conferences, and industry events to provide hands-on support and build lasting relationships (up to 25%, with flexibility for up to 50%).

The Impact You Will Have:
  • Accelerate customer adoption of Ansys engineering simulation solutions, driving business growth and customer success.
  • Enhance the quality and efficiency of customer design workflows, enabling breakthroughs in electronics thermal management.
  • Influence the evolution of Ansys products by providing critical feedback and innovative ideas based on real-world customer needs.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor, elevating Synopsys' reputation as a leader in simulation technology for the electronics industry.
  • Empower customers to solve their most complex engineering problems, fostering long-term partnerships and loyalty.
  • Contribute to thought leadership within the industry by sharing expertise at conferences, webinars, and training events.
  • Drive internal knowledge sharing, mentoring junior team members, and promoting best practices across the organization.

What You'll Need:
  • MS in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (BS+5, MS+3, or PhD+0 years of experience in engineering software environments).
  • Strong background in fluid mechanics and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)and thermodynamics with practical application in the electronics industry.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with Ansys software (Fluent, Icepak, Mechanical) or similar CAE, CAD, EDA, or PLM tools.
  • Experience integrating simulation solutions into customer design workflows at the package, board, and system level.
  • Familiarity with Multiphysics simulation approaches (e.g., Electro-Thermal, Thermo-Mechanical) is highly desirable.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills and comfort with effective interaction with senior business managers and C-level executives.
  • Willingness and ability to travel domestically up to 25% (potentially up to 50%) as required.

Who You Are:
  • Logical problem-solver with strong interpersonal and communication skills, fluent in English (written and spoken).

  • Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously with a sense of urgency.
  • Business-savvy and professional, projecting confidence and credibility in all interactions.
  • Collaborative team player who thrives in cross-functional environments and is willing to mentor others.
  • Professional, driven to succeed, and results-focused, with a commitment to continuous improvement within a fast-paced, innovative company

The Team You'll Be A Part Of:
You will join the Ansys Customer Excellence team, a diverse group of talented engineers and technical specialists dedicated to empowering customers and advancing simulation-driven innovation. The team emphasizes a collaborative culture, sharing expertise, continuously learning and delivering exceptional service across a wide range of industries, with a special focus on electronics thermal management. Together, you will solve complex challenges, drive product advancement, and make a measurable impact on the future of electronic design.
Rewards and Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive range of health, wellness, and financial benefits to cater to your needs. Our total rewards include both monetary and non-monetary offerings. Your recruiter will provide more details about the salary range and benefits during the hiring process.
#LI-TR2
At Synopsys, we want talented people of every background to feel valued and supported to do their best work. Synopsys considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, military veteran status, or disability.
In addition to the base salary, this role may be eligible for an annual bonus, equity, and other discretionary bonuses. Synopsys offers comprehensive health, wellness, and financial benefits as part of a competitive total rewards package. The actual compensation offered will be based on a number of job-related factors, including location, skills, experience, and education. Your recruiter can share more specific details on the total rewards package upon request. The base salary range for this role is across the U.S.

Synopsys logo

About Synopsys

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Synopsys, Inc. (Nasdaq:SNPS) is the Silicon to Software partner for creative companies developing the electronic products and software applications we rely on every single day. As the world's 15th largest software company, Synopsys has a long history of being a global leader in electronic design automation (EDA) and semiconductor IP and is also growing its leadership in software quality and security solutions. Whether you're a system-on-chip (SoC) designer building advanced semiconductors, or a software developer writing applications that require the highest quality and security, Synopsys has the solutions needed to deliver exceptional, secure products for the era of connected everything. The company is headquartered in Mountain View, California, and has approximately 113 offices located throughout North America, South America, Europe, Japan, Asia and India. Since 1986, Synopsys has been at the heart of accelerating electronics innovation with engineers around the world having used Synopsys technology to successfully design and create billions of chips and systems that are found in the electronics that people rely on every single day.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Mountain View, CA, US

Year founded

1986

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