Lead Mechanical Engineer - Heat Exchangers (Austin, TX)

Protagonist Management LLC; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 180,000 - 215,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Protagonist Management LLC seeks a Mechanical Engineer in Austin, TX, specializing in heat exchanger design. This role involves leading the design and optimization of heat exchangers and requires 7+ years of experience specializing in thermal-fluid systems.

The position offers a salary of $180,000 - $215,000 annually, relocation assistance, and a dynamic work environment promoting innovation and professional growth.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of mechanical engineering experience focusing on thermal-fluid systems.
• Experience designing heat exchangers for high temperature applications.
• Hands-on testing experience of energy and power conversion systems.

Responsibilities

• Own and develop heat exchange systems for power conversion units.
• Perform mechanical analysis utilizing CFD and FEA.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Heat exchanger design

Analytical skills

3D CAD software

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Master's degree

Tools

SolidWorks

ANSYS multiphysics

Job description

Exowatt is revolutionizing the energy landscape for the AI era with our groundbreaking P3system that captures solar energy, stores it as heat, and generates electricity on demand. Founded in 2023 and backed by leading investors including Andreessen Horowitz, SamAltman, and Felicis, we’re committed to providing clean, modular, and scalable power that meets the rapidly growing demands of AI infrastructure. Our mission is to make sustainable renewable energy always available and almost free, enabling technological advancement while protecting our planet.

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer specializing in heat exchanger design to join our growing team. In this role, you will lead the design, analysis, and optimization of heat exchangers for our thermal energy storage systems, ensuring efficient heat transfer, system reliability, and performance across demanding operational conditions.

This position is based in Austin, TX, however an alternate location of Miami, FL is possible for the right candidate. If hired for this role, relocation to one of these sites is required. We provide relocation assistance.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and develop the heat exchange system for Exowatt’s power conversion unit from design and analysis in a hands‑on fashion. Engage with suppliers for development, build and testing.
• Perform analysis of mechanical components and systems for heat exchangers utilizing CFD and FEA such as Ansys multiphysics, CAD (Solidworks, Creo, or equivalent).
• Design, build and test of prototype heat exchanger units for Exowatt’s power conversion units.
• Validate models by testing and analytical methods.
• Create detailed engineering drawings and specifications for manufacturing.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including electrical, controls, thermal, and software engineers.
• Evaluate and select appropriate materials based on requirements, cost, and sustainability.
• Design for manufacturability, assembly, and serviceability.
• Interface with suppliers, manufacturers, and external engineering partners.
• Participate in design reviews and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Troubleshoot issues during testing and deployment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 7+ years of mechanical engineering experience with a focus on thermal‑fluid systems with a focus on heat exchanger design, analysis, and development.
• Demonstrated experience designing, analyzing, and optimizing heat exchangers (shell‑and‑tube, fine heat exchangers, heat sinks, printed circuit heat exchangers, heat pipes, etc.) for high temperature applications.
• Hands‑on experience in testing of heat exchangers, energy, and power conversion systems.
• Strong foundation in thermodynamics, conjugate heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermal coatings, with the ability to perform thermal and hydraulic sizing calculations.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, or similar) and experience designing complex flow paths and pressure‑containing components.
• Experience with FEA and CFD software (ANSYS multiphysics, Nastran, or similar) for thermal stress analysis and fatigue life prediction under cyclic operating conditions.
• Familiarity with CFD tools for flow distribution, heat transfer optimization, and pressure drop analysis.
• Strong understanding of GD&T ASME Y14.5 and engineering drawing standards for precision‑manufactured components.
• Knowledge of relevant standards and codes (ASME BPVC, TEMA, API, ISO) as applied to pressure vessels, heat exchangers, and rotating equipment.
• Experience designing for demanding operating environments, including thermal cycling, high‑temperature creep, and corrosive or reactive working fluids.
• Experience with renewable energy systems, thermal energy storage, or concentrated solar power preferred.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams.

$180,000 - $215,000 a year

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity options.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• A dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and innovation.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development in a rapidly evolving industry.
• Relocation assistance.