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Thermal Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Thermal Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.8K

$107.7K

$172.6K

How much do thermal engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal engineering in Chicago, IL is $107,679.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $132,900.00 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.

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 does a thermal engineer do?

A thermal engineer designs, analyzes, and tests systems to manage heat transfer and temperature control in products and processes. They work with tools like computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and often require knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and materials. Their work is essential in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics to ensure safety, efficiency, and performance.

What are popular job titles related to Thermal Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Thermal Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Thermal Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Thermal Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Thermal Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Thermal Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,679 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Project Engineer, Thermal Engineering

Invenergy LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Invenergy rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power infrastructure. With 25 years of trusted execution, we deliver reliable, affordable energy through a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing. Headquartered in Chicago, we develop, own, and operate large scale projects that power communities and support the energy future.

This position will be open for application for at least 3 calendar days from the posting date. This position will remain open for application based on business need, which may be before or after the 3-day posting window.

Job Description

Position Overview

The Project Engineer, Thermal, reporting to the Senior Director of Thermal Engineering, will support Invenergy's efforts to develop, permit, engineer, construct and commission new geothermal and thermal (simple and combined cycle combustion turbine and reciprocating engine) power generation projects throughout North America. This role will encompass the full project life cycle of project development from siting and origination through commercial operation of the project and will assist managing third party engineering consultants and contractors; preparing permit applications; specifying project configurations; specifying project performance, creating project specifications; preparing bids; evaluating bids; managing major equipment manufacturers supplying combustion turbines, steam turbines, heat recovery steam generators, injection pumps, Organic Rankine Cycle systems,; reviewing detailed engineering; construction monitoring and commissioning efforts. A strong background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustion turbine performance is desired.

Invenergy follows a hybrid schedule, working in office Monday through Thursday and remotely on Fridays.

Responsibilities

  • Perform and review basic and detail design for power generation projects.

  • Advise on the feasibility of projects based on available geothermal technologies and project constraints.

  • Lead technical efforts during the development phase and collaborate with other engineering and geophysicists during the reservoir modelling and detailed design process.

  • Perform and review thermal heat balances for thermal power generation projects.

  • Support technical efforts for project development work such as site selection, general arrangement development, site surveying, environmental studies, permit applications, geotechnical investigations and others.

  • Interface with equipment vendors to explain technical requirements and receive technical proposals.

  • Support and lead technical efforts with OEMs.

  • Review technical deliverables like P&ID, heat and mass balances, project design documents, equipment specifications and drawings, layouts, and electrical one-line drawings.

  • Provide engineering oversight during project design and construction.

  • Interface with contractors for resolution of technical issues.

  • Assist oversight of power plant commissioning activities.

  • Coordinate with internal teams to align project development and execution with financial and commercial objectives, including coordination of internal administrative workload with the Project Management team for the technical interface of the project, i.e., purchase orders, service orders, MSAs and ESA agreements for consultants.

  • Establish relationships with various technical experts among stakeholders, utilities, RTO/ISOs.

  • Understand project interfaces across multiple contractors and work packages and monitor performance, ensuring adherence to project requirements, budget and schedule.

Minimum Qualifications

  • BS in mechanical, electrical, civil, petroleum, chemical or related engineering discipline.

  • 2+ years' experience in project engineering management of large capital projects with a focus on geothermal power generation, thermal power generation or transferable energy sector work.

  • Familiarity with regulatory, siting, and environmental permitting processes for large-scale industrial projects.

  • Knowledge and experience with project design and configuration.

  • Experience with geothermal production facilities with focus on translating subsurface energy into usable power, emphasizing facility design, heat exchange, gathering systems, reinjection systems and fluid mechanics will have an advantage.

  • Spreadsheet modeling using Microsoft Excel.

  • Eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer visa sponsorship now or in the future.

  • Must have a valid US driving license.

  • Ability to travel up to 25%.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in engineering or Professional Engineering License

  • Experience with ORCs, steam turbines for geothermal applications, production and injection pumps, and other heavy duty industrial rotatory equipment.

  • Experience in the power generation industry, specifically thermal energy, with a focus on utility-scale project development.

  • Oil & Gas project or reservoir engineering experience relevant to geothermal or conventional thermal projects.

  • Proficiency in spreadsheet modeling using Microsoft Excel.

  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills

#LI=Hybrid

Base Pay

$100,000.00 - $120,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 20% - 30%

The base pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target salary for the position. Invenergy considers a number of factors when determining base pay offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education and skills.
In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to participate in our bonus program(s) which are designed to reward individual and company performance. Your recruiter can share more about bonus eligibility for this position during the hiring process.
Invenergy offers a variety of other benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k, paid time off, etc.

Invenergy LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.

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