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Thermal Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Umbra

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Job We are seeking a skilled and motivated professional to join our multidisciplinary engineering team as a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer to support Umbra's Mission Solutions business unit.

EnduroSat

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

As a Thermal Engineer, you will be responsible for the thermal engineering activities related to ... You will be part of EnduroSat's system engineering team and you will participate in the full ...

Cornelis Networks

Thermal Design Engineer

Wayne, PA · Hybrid

Analyze thermal test data, summarize findings, and contribute to formal engineering test reports and guidelines. * Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with mechanical, electrical, and ...

New

Umbra

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Job We are seeking a skilled and motivated professional to join our multidisciplinary engineering team as a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer to support Umbra's Mission Solutions business unit.

LiquidStack

Thermal Engineer (R&D)

Carrollton, TX

As the organization evolves, this role offers increasing scope, visibility, and the opportunity to help shape how thermal engineering is executed across the company. Engineers who succeed at ...

Formfactor Inc

Director, Thermal Engineering

Livermore, CA · On-site

$192.40 - $252.52/hr

Director, Thermal** **Engineering** leader to drive the development and delivery of advanced cooling solutions for probe card technologies. This role is responsible for defining technical vision and ...

New

Arcfield

Thermal Design Engineer IV

Louisville, CO · On-site

Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant engineering or computation field plus 8-10 years, MS plus 6-8 years, or PhD plus 3-5 years of professional experience in thermal engineering positions. * 3+ ...

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Thermal Engineering information

See salary details

$43.5K

$104.5K

$167.5K

How much do thermal engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal engineering in the United States is $104,528.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $129,000.00 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.
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Thermal Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Thermal Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,528 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Thermal Engineer

Pentangle Tech Services | P5 Group

New Freedom, PA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Thermal Systems Engineers to support the development of a next-generation family of configurable Coolant Distribution Unit (CDU) products within the Johnson Controls data center cooling portfolio.

The selected engineers will play a critical role in transforming existing custom-engineered cooling solutions into standardized and modular product platforms. This role requires deep expertise in thermal engineering, heat transfer, fluid systems, heat exchangers, HVAC technologies, and cooling system design, combined with hands-on product development experience spanning concept, design, validation, manufacturing, and field deployment.

Candidates with backgrounds in data center cooling, thermal management products, food & beverage processing, pharmaceutical systems, brewery industry, stainless steel processing equipment, or heat exchanger manufacturing are strongly preferred.

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Key Responsibilities

Thermal & System Design

· Perform thermal calculations, heat transfer analysis, and fluid flow modeling.

· Design and optimize CDU systems, pumps, heat exchangers, and dry cooler solutions.

· Develop system-level thermal performance models.

· Evaluate various operating modes and system configurations.

· Perform ratings analysis and performance validation.

Product Development

· Support conversion of custom products into standardized configurable platforms.

· Participate in full product lifecycle activities from concept through manufacturing release.

· Develop engineering specifications and design requirements.

· Support modularization initiatives for future product generations.

· Drive engineering trade-off analyses related to performance, cost, manufacturability, and reliability.

Controls & Performance Optimization

· Collaborate with controls engineers to define operational logic and control algorithms.

· Support development of sequences of operation and system responses.

· Analyze pump control, flow management, and heat rejection optimization strategies.

Manufacturing & Localization Support

· Support localization initiatives across North America, Europe, and Asia.

· Collaborate with manufacturing teams on design-for-manufacturing improvements.

· Help define manufacturing standards for U.S. and Mexico production expansion.

· Participate in design verification and production readiness activities.

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Required Qualifications

· BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.

· 7+ years of experience in thermal systems engineering or product development.

· Strong expertise in:

o Heat Transfer

o Thermodynamics

o Fluid Dynamics

o HVAC Systems

o Thermal Modeling

o Cooling Systems Design

o Heat Exchanger Design

o Pump Selection and Sizing

· Experience with full product development lifecycle.

· Ability to make engineering decisions using analytical and real-world performance data.

Apply