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Thermal Engineering Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (Master's degree preferred) * 5+ years of experience designing and developing twophase or refrigerationbased thermal systems * Strong ...

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (Master's degree preferred) * 5+ years of experience designing and developing two-phase or refrigeration-based thermal systems * Strong ...

Thermal Controls R&D Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

... engineering, including both classical control theory and modern AI/ML-based approaches. This role involves designing, modeling, and implementing control algorithms for complex thermal systems ...

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Thermal Engineering information

See Arizona salary details

$40.5K

$97.4K

$156.1K

How much do thermal engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal engineering in Arizona is $97,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,600.00 and $120,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is thermal engineering?

Thermal engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the study, design, and management of systems and processes involving heat transfer and energy conversion. Thermal engineers work on technologies such as heating and cooling systems, engines, power plants, and thermal management in electronics. Their work helps improve energy efficiency, safety, and sustainability in various industries including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and HVAC. They apply principles of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics to solve real-world engineering challenges.

How do thermal engineers typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines on large-scale projects?

Thermal engineers often work closely with mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers to ensure that thermal systems integrate smoothly into broader project designs. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings, sharing simulation data, and coordinating design changes to optimize energy efficiency and safety. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as thermal engineers must align their solutions with structural limitations, electrical requirements, and overall system goals. This cross-functional interaction not only enhances project outcomes but also provides valuable opportunities for professional growth and knowledge sharing.

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. Familiarity with simulation tools such as ANSYS, MATLAB, and CAD software, as well as relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in multidisciplinary teams and complex projects. These competencies ensure accurate system designs, efficient thermal solutions, and successful project outcomes in industries ranging from aerospace to electronics.

What is the difference between Thermal Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectThermal EngineeringMechanical Engineering
FocusHeat transfer, thermodynamics, HVAC systems, energy systemsDesign, analysis, manufacturing of mechanical systems, machinery, and tools
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in Mechanical or Thermal EngineeringBachelor's or master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing plants, energy sectorsFactories, design firms, R&D departments
Industry UsagePower plants, HVAC, aerospace, automotiveAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing, robotics

Thermal Engineering specializes in heat transfer, thermodynamics, and energy systems, while Mechanical Engineering covers a broader range of mechanical design and manufacturing. Both fields share similar credentials and work environments but differ in their specific focus areas and industry applications.

What does a thermal engineer do?

A thermal engineer designs, analyzes, and tests systems to manage heat transfer and temperature control in various applications such as electronics, HVAC, and power plants. They use tools like computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and often require knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer principles, and materials science. Their work ensures systems operate efficiently, safely, and within specified temperature ranges.

Are thermal engineers in demand?

Thermal engineers are in demand across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy due to the need for efficient heat management and system performance. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as companies focus on sustainable and energy-efficient technologies, often requiring skills in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and relevant simulation tools.
What are popular job titles related to Thermal Engineering jobs in Arizona? For Thermal Engineering jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Thermal Engineering job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,408 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer II - Thermal Engineer

Raytheon

Phoenix, AZ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Raytheon rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-04-21

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-AZ-TUCSON-805 ~ 1151 E Hermans Rd ~ BLDG 805

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Ability to obtain INTERIM U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. 

Raytheon brings the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. We deliver solutions that help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression, creating a safer, more secure world. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

At Raytheon, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling – to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world. 

The Mechanical Analysis and Test (MA&T) Department is responsible for ensuring structural and thermal design robustness across the Raytheon portfolio of products.  From preliminary concepts to fielded weapon system support, MA&T delivers innovative structural and thermal engineering solutions utilizing methods ranging from classical fundamental & empirically based techniques to state-of-the-art finite element methods leveraging industry leading commercial tools; all complimented and validated by tests executed in a manner to ensure cost effective yet technically balanced solutions.

Raytheon is seeking an early career Thermal Engineer to join the MA&T Department.  The Thermal Engineer is responsible for detailed thermal analysis on products throughout their lifecycle from initial design trade studies and proposals through qualification testing to enduring production support.  The analyses will cover a wide range of difficult problems, requiring solutions that are imaginative, thorough, practicable, and consistent with organization objectives. The analysis tasks will span the spectrum from classical hand analyses to detailed analyses requiring the use of finite element analysis software.  A Thermal Engineer of this salary grade is expected to have a level of technical competence with thermodynamic principles.  The Thermal Engineer will be held accountable for completing his/her work within the agreed upon cost and schedule.  Additionally, the selected candidate will be expected to present their work for peer reviews and to be a peer reviewer for other engineers’ work.  Finally, the engineer is expected to plan and support tests, perform data reduction and engage in thermal model correlation.

What You Will Do

  • Perform Hand Calculations to determine scope of higher detail analysis models
  • Perform detailed thermal analyses to solve various program thermal challenges
  • Generate test plans required to validate analyses and verify hardware compliance to customer requirements
  • Analyze test data to validate and correlate models
  • Work with experienced analysts on problems of moderate complexity to provide the answers needed under program cost and schedule constraints
  • Review your work with peers to ensure technical accuracy
  • Present results to internal, external, and government customers
  • Generate detailed documentation of work and archive for reference
  • Qualifications You Must Have  
  • Bachelor’s degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 2 years of prior relevant experience; Alternatively an advanced degree in a STEM field can be substituted for 2 years experience 
  • Experience in thermal analysis with any of the following tools: FloTHERM, PATRAN, Thermal Desktop/SINDA or ANSYS or equivalent
  • Experience in mechanical principles to solve classical thermal analysis solutions both inside and outside of finite element tools and an ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. government issued security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance, Clearance must be active and transferable prior to start date 
  • Ability to work in a collaborative, team-based environment and independently 

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics(STEM) and a minimum of 2 years of prior relevant experience unless prohibited by local laws/regulations.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in the thermal analysis of complex systems that require collaboration across multiple engineering disciplines
  • Experience with solid modeling CAD tool such as CREO or equivalent 
  • Experience in Electronics Cooling and Aerodynamic Heating Analyses
  • Demonstrated experience in thermal testing: Planning, organization, execution, data reduction and correlation
  • Experience presenting to external customers
  • Ability to travel to government and other facilities in support of program activities
  • Advanced degree in aforementioned disciplines. ABET is the preferred, although not required, accreditation standard

What We Offer

Whether you’re just starting out on your career journey or are an experienced professional, we offer a robust total rewards package that goes above and beyond with compensation; healthcare, wellness, retirement and work/life benefits; career development and recognition programs. Some of the superior benefits we offer include parental (including paternal) leave, flexible work schedules, achievement awards, educational assistance, and child/adult backup care.

Learn More & Apply Now!

Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role. Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

#LI-ST1

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 68,900 USD - 131,100 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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