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Thermal Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Sr Thermal Engineer

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$142K - $213K/yr

The candidate will apply established engineering standards and techniques to provide spacecraft and instrumentlevel thermal design, modeling, and analysis for ground and onorbit environments. Key ...

LHH US

Lead Thermal Engineer

Moriarty, NM

$120K - $170K/yr

This position requires strong applied thermal engineering experience, sound technical judgment, and the ability to collaborate across multiple engineering disciplines. You will serve as a trusted ...

Dexian

Thermal Engineer w/ Icepak

Campbell, CA · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Must Have: Icepack Degree in Mechanical or Thermal Engineering. 2-3 years of experience in thermal modeling, simulation, and lab instrumentation. Skilled with thermocouples, airflow chambers ...

Foxconn Assembly LLC

Thermal Engineer (HH)

Houston, TX · On-site

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or Aerospace Engineering. A Ph.D. is a plus. * At least 5 years of experience in thermal design for servers and racks ...

Phihong USA Corp

Thermal Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$102K - $110K/yr

Thermal testing engineering in manufacturing environment. * HVAC refrigeration systems in an automotive or similar industry. * Air flow characterization (pressure drop measurement and air flow ...

SCEYE INC

Thermal Engineer

Moriarty, NM · On-site

Collaborate with systems engineering to ensure thermal performance aligns with power, reliability, and mission requirements. * Contribute to failure analysis, root cause investigations, and ...

Samsung Semiconductor

Thermal Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$138K - $206K/yr

Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related Physical Science) with 5+ years of ... PhD degree in Thermal Engineering. * Minimum of 2 years of direct industry experience preferred.

Samsung Semiconductor

Thermal Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$138K - $206K/yr

Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related Physical Science) with 5+ years of ... PhD degree in Thermal Engineering. * Minimum of 2 years of direct industry experience preferred.

LHH US

Lead Thermal Engineer

Moriarty, NM

$120K - $170K/yr

This position requires strong applied thermal engineering experience, sound technical judgment, and the ability to collaborate across multiple engineering disciplines. You will serve as a trusted ...

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Thermal Engineering information

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$43.5K

$104.5K

$167.5K

How much do thermal engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced technical skills, management responsibilities, or work in high-demand industries.

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 engines, HVAC systems, and electronics. 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 and safely under specified conditions.

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.
More about Thermal Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Thermal Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Thermal Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Thermal Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Thermal Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Thermal Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Thermal Engineering jobs are:
Thermal Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Thermal Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,528 per year, or $50.3 per hour.
Sr Thermal Engineer

Sr Thermal Engineer

KBR

Greenbelt, MD • On-site

$142K - $213K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 356 rated engineering

Job description

Title:

Sr Thermal Engineer

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

Around here, we define the future.

But we at KBR share one goal: to improve the world responsibly as a company of innovators, thinkers, creators, explorers, volunteers, and dreamers.

Overview
This fulltime Senior Thermal Engineer role supports sustaining engineering excellence on the MIST II or NRL contract. The candidate will apply established engineering standards and techniques to provide spacecraft and instrumentlevel thermal design, modeling, and analysis for ground and onorbit environments.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide guidance and direction in developing and maintaining project schedules.

  • Serve as an expert advisor in shaping the technical approach to engineering challenges.

  • Perform instrumentlevel and spacecraftlevel thermal design, modeling, and analysis for ground and onorbit environments.

  • Collaborate with Thermal Group team members to ensure that GSFC or NRL project requirements are met.

  • Participate in internal KBR peer reviews for employees and projects requiring engineering oversight prior to customer presentation.

  • Identify key needs within the GSFC Thermal Engineering Branch and work with Branch Management to ensure necessary skills and support are provided.

  • Attend peer reviews and provide engineering consultation services as required.

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 10 years of experience in the aerospace industry with specific expertise in thermal/fluid systems.

  • Demonstrated ability to lead the development of thermal models for spacecraft, payloads, and instruments.

  • Experience providing thermal design, modeling, and testing-including thermal vacuum chamber testing-for spacecraft and instruments.

  • Proven technical team leadership experience and participation in spacecraft project reviews.

  • Proficiency using Thermal Desktop, with strong familiarity in applying the tool to modeling and analysis.

Additional Skills / Tools

  • Thermal Desktop

  • SINDA

  • TSS

Experience and/or Education in lieu of these qualifications will be reviewed for applicability to meet these requirements.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • On-Site work performed at GSPC Greenbelt, MD location.

Basic Compensation:

$142,300.00 - $213,400.00

The offered rate will be based on contract affordability and the selected candidate's working location, knowledge, skills, and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Click here to learn more: KBR Benefits

#LI-EM2

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

What KBR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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