A thermal engineer is a professional who specializes in a complex field of engineering that focuses on thermodynamics, heat transfer, mass transfer, and fluid mechanics. Thermodynamics deals with conversion of heat energy into mechanical, chemical, and electrical energy as well as conversion of other energies into heat energy.

The career outlook for a thermal engineer is good. They make on average $52-$62 thousand a year.

Heat transfer is passage of thermal energy from an object of higher temperature to one with lower temperature. Mass transfer is the physical process that moves atoms and molecules from one point to another within physical systems. Fluid mechanics is a study of how fluids (liquids and gases) move and the forces behind the motion.

In a practical work environment, the duties of a thermal engineer may include: design of various types of heaters, from air and water line heaters to applications like freeze protection and temperature control; thermal analysis for optimizing use of power; heat-related safety studies; simulations and predictions.

The work of a thermal engineer contributes greatly to worldwide efforts to find answers to questions having to do with renewable energy. For this reason, the job of a thermal engineer is on top of the green careers list.

The individual who would fit the profile of a thermal engineer is one who: has an exceptionally high aptitude for the natural sciences, particularly physics, chemistry and mathematics; is gifted with analytical and problem-solving ability; can communicate his ideas clearly, both orally and in writing; is able to relate well with others; and has a sincere concern for the environment.

Typical requirements for considering a candidate for the position of Thermal Engineer include: bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical or Mechanical), background in CFD (computational fluid dynamics), computer literacy, proficiency in thermal engineering software packages, and advanced degree in Engineering (Masters, PhD).

Years of solid hands-on experience as thermal engineer is highly desirable.

Thermal Engineer Resources

*Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire 4.0 Mechanica Tutorial (Structure/Thermal)
*Planning and Installing Solar Thermal Systems: A Guide for Installers, Architects and Engineers
*Satellite Thermal Control for Systems Engineers (Progress in Astronautics and Aeronautics)
*Vehicle Thermal Management: Heat Exchangers & Climate Control (Progress in Technology) (Progress in Technology)

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