ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Thermal Fluid System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CNHES Inc.

Be Seen First

Thermal Research Engineer ( Junior Level )

Laconia, NH · On-site

This role emphasizes thermal-fluid system modeling, data-driven engineering, and product development to accelerate design, optimization, and system-level performance prediction. Job. This is a junior ...

AMSC

Cryogenic & Thermal Systems Engineer

Ayer, MA · On-site

Develop engineering calculations, models, and simulations related to heat transfer, fluid flow, thermal performance, and system operation. * Analyze system performance data and provide ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction JobsHVAC JobsHVAC Engineer JobsThermal Fluid System Engineer Jobs

Thermal Fluid System Engineer information

See salary details

$43.5K

$104.5K

$167.5K

How much do thermal fluid system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermal fluid system engineer 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 does a thermal fluid system engineer do?

A Thermal Fluid System Engineer designs, analyzes, and manages systems that involve the transfer and control of heat and fluids, such as heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Their work often involves selecting materials, performing simulations, and ensuring systems operate efficiently and safely. They collaborate with other engineers to optimize thermal performance in industries like aerospace, automotive, and power generation. These engineers also troubleshoot issues, oversee system installations, and ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a thermal fluid system engineer?

To thrive as a Thermal Fluid System Engineer, you need a solid background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer, typically supported by a degree in mechanical or chemical engineering. Proficiency with simulation and modeling tools such as ANSYS, MATLAB, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software is crucial, along with familiarity with relevant industry standards. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and addressing complex engineering challenges. These competencies are vital for designing, analyzing, and optimizing thermal systems to ensure performance, safety, and regulatory compliance.

What are some typical challenges faced by thermal fluid system engineers in project-based environments?

Thermal Fluid System Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing system performance with safety and regulatory requirements, especially when working on complex, multidisciplinary projects. Coordinating with mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers to ensure system integration can be demanding, as it requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, adapting to evolving project specifications and troubleshooting unexpected issues with fluid dynamics or heat transfer under tight deadlines are common aspects of the role. Staying current with industry standards and new technologies is also essential for success.

What are popular job titles related to Thermal Fluid System Engineer jobs?

For Thermal Fluid System Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Thermal Fluid System Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% 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.

RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Thermal Fluid Systems Engineer

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Southwest Research Institute
Scientific Research and Development Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Southwest Research Instituteexternal

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Thermal Fluid Systems Engineer

18-01638

Who We Are:

We develop mechanical solutions for multiple industries. From power utilities to the oil and gas industry, we are proud to improve efficiency and productivity through expertise in engineering dynamics, structures, materials, and fluids systems.

Objectives of this Role:
  • Enable modeling and control of complex thermal fluid systems comprising control valves, piping, machinery, heat exchangers, and other various fluid/gas components in oil and gas and power generation applications.
  • Work with a team to incorporate advanced control and monitoring strategies into test facilities and piping systems that are delivered to the client.
  • Enable fast and efficient commissioning of complex power generation systems and components from kW to MW scale.
  • Assist to diagnose and troubleshoot vendor piping systems and control issues.
  • Write reports and present technical data to clients and industry peers.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
  • Develop models for fluid thermal systems using 1D finite volume of finite element principles. This may include the use of off the shelf software such as Hysys, NPSS, or fluent.
  • Develop and validate simulations for control strategies for fluid thermal systems using 1D finite volume of finite element principles. This may include the use of off the shelf software such as Hysys, NPSS, or fluent.
  • Develop improved or optimized piping system designs/improvements for existing or planned systems based off of model feedback while incorporating applicable design codes such as B31.3, B31.1, ASME BPVC, and Hazardous classification zones.
  • Run cycle analysis and optimize cycles for refrigeration, power generation, and refinery application.
  • Design and implement process control PID's into systems to control single and multiple variables.
Requirements:
  • Requires a Bachelors, Masters or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering or directly related engineering degree field with relevant work experience. Graduate degree may be considered in lieu of some work experience.
  • 2+ years: Thermal fluid system modeling and control background.
  • Graduate experience in developing model and control algorithms for thermal fluid piping systems is preferred.
  • Off the shelf software such as Hysys, NPSS, or fluent or similar or interest in related software.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.
Special Requirements:

Must be a U.S. person (i.e., U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national, lawful permanent resident, asylee, or refugee) due to ITAR work in section.

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Southwest Research Institute employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply