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Thermal Engineer Jobs in Rochester Hills, MI (NOW HIRING)

GENTHERM GmbH

Product Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

As a global leader in thermal management and pneumatic comfort technologies, we develop advanced ... Organize manufacturing and industrial engineering related documentation for new and existing ...

General Motors

Thermal Systems Researcher

Warren, MI · Hybrid

Advanced (PhD) degree in science/engineering disciplines. New PhD grad up to 1-3 years work ... Knowledge of vehicle thermal loops, propulsion and vehicle thermal systems, and heat exchanger ...

General Motors

Thermal Systems Researcher

Warren, MI · On-site

Advanced (PhD) degree in science/engineering disciplines. New PhD grad up to 1-3 years work ... Knowledge of vehicle thermal loops, propulsion and vehicle thermal systems, and heat exchanger ...

Sanhua

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Specifically, automotive thermal expansion valves, thermal bypass valves, receiver dryer, check ... The ideal candidate will have a Mechanical Engineering Degree a solid understanding MS office ...

Sanhua International

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Specifically, automotive thermal expansion valves, thermal bypass valves, receiver dryer, check ... The ideal candidate will have a Mechanical Engineering Degree a solid understanding MS office ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsThermal Engineer JobsThermal Engineer Jobs in Rochester Hills, MI

Thermal Engineer information

See Rochester Hills, MI salary details

$40K

$96.2K

$154.2K

How much do thermal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal engineer in Rochester Hills, MI is $96,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,600.00 and $118,700.00 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 cities near Rochester Hills, MI are hiring for Thermal Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rochester Hills, MI with the most Thermal Engineer job openings:

Thermal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Thermal Engineer job openings in Rochester Hills, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,213 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Thermal System Senior Innovation Engineer

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Stellantis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 45 rated automakers

Job description

The Thermal System Innovation Senior Engineer oversees the definition and execution of Advanced Technologies Projects related to Thermal Systems and Management, including cooling system, refrigerant system, HVAC Module and its interfaces with the other systems, aimed at enhancing the heating and cooling performances by minimizing the required electrical energy. He also acts as functional lead and mentor for the TECH PS Thermal Management team members, supporting and coaching them, with the goal to increase team competences and effectiveness.
Challenge is to anticipate future innovation trends in automotive industry and customer needs, ensure important topics are covered in innovation roadmap, ensure that innovation projects are executed in time to meet customer expectations and timing for the implementation on new vehicles.
Main Responsibilities:
  • Self-dependent planning, coordination and execution of thermal innovation master projects, ensuring the overall targets can be met
  • Synthetize outcomes of the master project sub-projects for the presentation to the leadership management and stakeholders
  • Functionally coordinates the internally and externally required resources in relation to the master project he leads
  • Develop the competences of TECH PS Thermal Management employees and act as a mentor
  • Research new areas for innovation and defining projects based on defined "brand pillars"
  • Research into new technologies from suppliers that fit STELLANTIS's roadmap or the needs of future vehicle programs
  • Execute technology scouting and benchmark of markets and competitors patents
  • Contribute to the technical/technological scenario related to system of responsibility
  • Define with Management annual innovation plan for thermal systems
  • Responsible for adherence to schedule, deliverables and budget
  • Assist sub-projects leaders to ensure all sub-projects are launched with the right content and scope to meet customer requirements on time
  • Supplier selection for the allocation of external work packages
  • Collaborate with different departments of STELLANTIS, suppliers and external service providers to define and/or execute projects
  • Facilitate internal and external meetings to present the status and progress of projects to STELLANTIS management
  • Definition of measures, together with the stakeholders, for the implementation of innovations in series development.

Basic Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical/electrical/aeronautical/nuclear engineering or physics or equivalent
  • Minimum of 8 years of expertise in Development and Design of Advanced Thermal System Architecture and HVAC
  • A deep understanding of thermodynamics and the physical phenomena of heat exchange and airflow management
  • Excellent knowledge of HVAC system, heat exchangers, flow distribution in ducts and the main vehicle components
  • Good confidence with experimental tests, validation of HVAC systems and interpretation of virtual analyses (CFD 3D and 1D simulations)
  • Experience in project management and in coordinating global cross-functional teams
  • Creativity, innovative spirit and willingness of collaboration in a global team
  • Great engagement, autonomy, flexibility and sense of responsibility
  • Good analytical thinking
  • Business fluent English, spoken and written

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