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Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scout Motors

Thermal System DRE

Novi, MI · On-site

The Thermal Systems Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for the design, development, validation, and release of thermal management components and subsystems for vehicle programs. This ...

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Flex

Sr. Thermal Systems Engineer

Littleton, MA · On-site

$126K - $173K/yr

Reporting to the Product Manager the Senior Thermal Systems Engineer will own the end-to-end architecture, analysis, validation, and deployment of direct-to-chip (D2C) cooling systems used to cool ...

Firefly Aerospace

Thermal Engineer III

Cedar Park, TX · On-site

SUMMARY Firefly Thermal Engineers apply world-class simulation skills and expert knowledge of heat ... vehicle thermal systems. RESPONSIBILITIES * Determines effective analytical approaches for ...

Firefly Aerospace

Thermal Engineer III

Cedar Park, TX · On-site

SUMMARY Firefly Thermal Engineers apply world-class simulation skills and expert knowledge of heat ... vehicle thermal systems. RESPONSIBILITIES * Determines effective analytical approaches for ...

Flex Ltd.

Sr. Thermal Systems Engineer

Littleton, MA · On-site

$126K - $173K/yr

Reporting to the Product Manager the Senior Thermal Systems Engineer will own the end-to-end architecture, analysis, validation, and deployment of direct-to-chip (D2C) cooling systems used to cool ...

Relativity Space

Senior Thermal Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$109K - $150K/yr

Support vehicle and engine thermal system development and stage testing as well as flight ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field * 5+ years experience in thermal analysis

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All JobsVehicle Thermal Systems Engineer Jobs

Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$43.5K

$104.5K

$167.5K

How much do vehicle thermal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for vehicle thermal systems 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 is the difference between Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineer vs Powertrain Engineer?

AspectVehicle Thermal Systems EngineerPowertrain Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and optimizing thermal management systems for vehicle componentsDeveloping powertrain components like engines and transmissions
Required SkillsThermal analysis, fluid dynamics, HVAC systemsEngine performance, combustion, drivetrain systems
Work EnvironmentAutomotive R&D, testing labs, simulationEngine testing, vehicle integration, simulation
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, suppliers, EV companiesAutomotive, heavy machinery, aerospace

Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineers focus on managing heat within vehicles, ensuring efficient cooling and heating systems. Powertrain Engineers concentrate on engine and transmission development. While both roles require engineering credentials and work in automotive environments, their core responsibilities differ significantly, making each specialized in distinct vehicle systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, with expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation software like ANSYS or GT-SUITE, as well as experience with CAD tools and thermal testing equipment, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and addressing complex thermal challenges. These skills ensure optimal vehicle performance, energy efficiency, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineers when integrating new vehicle models?

Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as packaging constraints within tighter engine compartments, balancing performance with energy efficiency, and meeting stringent regulatory requirements for emissions and safety. Integrating new technologies, like electric drive systems or advanced HVAC, requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams including design, electrical, and manufacturing. Successfully addressing these challenges involves innovative problem-solving, effective communication, and staying updated on the latest industry standards and technologies.

What does a Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineer do?

A Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing the systems that manage temperature within vehicles, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and cooling systems for engines and batteries. They ensure that these systems operate efficiently to maintain passenger comfort and protect vehicle components from overheating or freezing. Their work involves collaborating with other engineering teams, using simulation tools, and optimizing thermal management for both conventional and electric vehicles.
Infographic showing various Vehicle Thermal Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,528 per year, or $50.3 per hour.
Thermal Systems Engineer (JR103125T-16)

Thermal Systems Engineer (JR103125T-16)

JBS Solutions

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Salary:




Thermal Systems Engineer

Are you seeking employment with a fast-growing small business who appreciates their employees? A company who believes in investing in people?

JBS Solutions, Inc. is an engineering and technical logistics company in Huntsville, AL. As a company dedicated to serving the community, JBS offers the unique opportunity to enrich an underutilized area of Huntsville while growing your career through NASA and DoD contracts. From systems engineering and configuration management to technical logistics and mission operations, JBS works to solve our customers' hardest problems. With a competitive benefits package and personable work environment, JBS Solutions is the ideal company to take your career to the next level.


JBS is excited to announce a new position. We are seeking aThermal Systems Engineerto perform system-level transient thermal analysesusing Thermal Desktop.


JBS Solutions offers a partnership in which you can grow personally and professionally within a framework of strong leadership, competitive compensation, and rewarding career paths. Come join our team and be a part of an exciting and rewarding organization!

In this role, you will be responsible for developing and validating thermal models, performing system trade studies, generating temperature and heat transfer predictions, and documenting results to support design and mission decisions. Youll collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure robust thermal performance across all mission phases.


Key Responsibilities

  • Capture and interpret system-level thermal and environmental inputs
  • Develop, verify, and validate transient thermal models in Thermal Desktop and Sinda/Fluint
  • Conduct system-level trade studies to assess design options and thermal control strategies
  • Generate detailed temperature and heat transfer predictions to support mission requirements
  • Document analysis results and communicate findings to engineering and program teams


Qualifications

  • Bachelors degree inMechanicalorAerospace Engineering(Masters degree preferred)
  • 5+ yearsof relevant thermal engineering and analysis experience
  • Strong understanding ofthermal fundamentals(conduction, convection, radiation, transient analysis)
  • Demonstrated proficiency inthermal modeling and simulation
  • Hands-on experience withThermal Desktopand/orSinda/Fluint, experience in Star CMM+ is a plus
  • Excellent communication, teamwork, and technical documentation skills


Were looking for someone who brings technical excellence, leadership, and a commitment to qualityand who shares ourpassion for advancing safe human spaceflight.


Selected candidate must be a US citizen. Proof of U.S. Citizenship is required. JBS participates in E-Verify.

JBS Solutions is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, military/veteran status or other categories protected by law.

This position is located in Huntsville, AL (ranked #11 in Best Places to Live by U.S. News).

For more information on why Huntsville is known as one of the smartest cities in the nation, check out these links:

https://hsvchamber.org/
www.Huntsville.org/
https://www.movoto.com/guide/huntsville-al/moving-to-huntsville/
https://realestate.usnews.com/places/alabama/huntsville
https://iveyhsv.com/real-estate-blog/13-reasons-why-you-should-move-to-huntsville/