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Thermal Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Starcloud

Thermal Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

As a Thermal Engineer at Starcloud, you will be instrumental in designing and developing thermal control systems for our space-based data centers. This hands-on role requires a highly innovative and ...

EROS Technologies, Inc.

Thermal Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

Hi , We have an urgent opening for the position of Thermal Engineer Location: Redmond, WA Duration: Full Time Customer: Microsoft (HCL America) Keywords: ICEPAK, Flotherm XT, Thermal Modeling ...

Blue Origin

Thermal Engineer

Seattle, WA

$130K - $182K/yr

As a Thermal Engineer at Blue Origin, you will be at the forefront of developing thermal management systems for our advanced space vehicles. You will be responsible for the analysis, design, and ...

Blue Origin LLC

Thermal Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$130.71 - $182.99/hr

As a Thermal Engineer at Blue Origin, you will be at the forefront of developing thermal management systems for our advanced space vehicles. You will be responsible for the analysis, design, and ...

Starcloud

Thermal Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

As a Thermal Engineer at Starcloud, you will be instrumental in designing and developing thermal control systems for our space-based data centers. This hands-on role requires a highly innovative and ...

SpaceX

Thermal Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

THERMAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink ...

SpaceX

Thermal Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

THERMAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink ...

SpaceX

Thermal Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

THERMAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink ...

Starcloud

Lead Thermal Engineer

Redmond, WA

$200K - $250K/yr

We're a small team of exceptional engineers, backed by leading investors, building in person in Redmond, WA. The role You'll own the thermal architecture, design, analysis, testing, and flight ...

Blue Origin

Thermal Engineer II

Seattle, WA

$98K - $137K/yr

We are looking for an engineer to be responsible for the development and integration of thermal components across the Blue Moon Crew Lander as a part of the HLS Crew Lander Thermal Systems ...

Starcloud

Lead Thermal Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

We're a small team of exceptional engineers, backed by leading investors, building in person in Redmond, WA. The role You'll own the thermal architecture, design, analysis, testing, and flight ...

Gravitics, Inc

Senior Thermal Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $163K/yr

Senior Thermal Engineer A bout Gravitics   At Gravitics, we're not exploring space--we're building it. We're creating the infrastructure for a thriving space economy, enabling ...

Gravitics, Inc

Senior Thermal Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $163K/yr

Senior Thermal Engineer A bout Gravitics At Gravitics, we're not exploring space-we're building it. We're creating the infrastructure for a thriving space economy, enabling humanity to flourish ...

Blue Origin

Senior Thermal Engineer - TeraWave

Seattle, WA

$118K - $163K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Thermal Engineer to own thermal architecture and design for ourTeraWavesatellite user terminal - a compact, outdoor-deployed device that must dissipate significant heat from ...

Blue Origin

Sr.Thermal Engineer-Radiator

Seattle, WA · On-site

In this role you will contribute to a team of Thermal Engineers simultaneously developing groundbreaking thermal hardware for lunar landers and driving those designs through build, test, and ...

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All JobsThermal Engineer JobsThermal Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Thermal Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$49.5K

$119K

$190.6K

How much do thermal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal engineer in Seattle, WA is $118,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,000.00 and $146,800.00 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

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For Thermal Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Thermal Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

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Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Thermal Engineer job openings:

Thermal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Thermal Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $118,955 per year, or $57.2 per hour.

Thermal Engineer

Starcloud

Redmond, WA • On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:

As a Thermal Engineer at Starcloud, you will be instrumental in designing and developing thermal control systems for our space-based data centers. This hands-on role requires a highly innovative and dynamic individual with extensive experience in thermal analysis and design. You will conduct detailed thermal analyses, design optimizations, and lead testing and validation efforts to ensure system reliability and performance.

Key Responsibilities: 
  • Design and Analysis:
    • Conduct preliminary and detailed thermal analysis on spacecraft and subsystems for operational conditions in orbit. These subsystems include cold plates, coolant loops, pumps, and very large lightweight deployable radiators, working closely with the mechanical and mechanisms teams.
    • Design, analyze, and optimize these thermal control systems, balancing performance, mass, cost, and reliability.
    • Provide thermal analysis and recommendations during architectural trades, supporting system architects and subsystem leads.
  • Testing and Validation:
    • Conduct rapid prototyping and testing of engineering models for iterative design feedback.
    • Take responsibility for building FM thermal hardware
    • Define, lead, and execute thermal cycling and thermal vacuum tests for development and qualification at subsystem and spacecraft levels.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
  • Good competency with Thermal Desktop and Ansys
  • 5+ years of experience with active thermal control, ideally in the space domain, delivering solutions optimized for mass, cost, reliability, performance, and manufacturability.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Proven track record in spacecraft thermal design, delivering optimized solutions for mass, cost, reliability, performance, and manufacturability.
  • Experience developing hardware and spacecraft that have successfully operated in space.
  • Experience interpreting and correlating data from on-orbit telemetry.
Compensation and Benefits:

Annual salary: 

L1: $125,000 - $160,000

L2: $160,000 - $215,000

Starcloud offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

  • Stock options, discretionary bonuses, and other long-term incentives.
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
  • Short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid parental leave.
  • Generous paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.

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