Mechanical Engineer - Thermal Analysis

Belcan; Berkeley (CA); Hybrid; USD 89,544 - 96,432; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer for Thermal Analysis to support reactor design in Alameda, CA. This role requires strong thermal analysis skills and knowledge of safety-critical systems. Applicants should have a BS in a related field, with 3-7+ years of relevant experience, and familiarity with CFD tools. The position offers opportunities for impactful engineering decisions in a supportive team environment, with potential remote work options.

Qualifications

• 3-7+ years of experience in thermal analysis for safety-critical systems.
• Hands-on experience with thermal network/system analysis.
• Familiarity with ASME BPVC Section III, Division 5.

Responsibilities

• Develop thermal and thermal-hydraulic models for reactor components.
• Collaborate with structural engineers to achieve acceptable margins.
• Produce clear, review-ready calculation packages and design reports.

Skills

Thermal analysis

CFD tools (STAR-CCM+, Fluent, ANSYS)

Heat transfer

Fluid mechanics

Scripting and data analysis (Python, MATLAB)

Education

BS in Mechanical, Nuclear, Chemical, Aerospace Engineering

MS/PhD (preferred)

Job description

Base pay range

$65.00/hr - $70.00/hr

SR Technical Recruiter @ Belcan | Technical Recruiting

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer - Thermal Analysis

Location: Alameda, CA (100% onsite or remote)

Type: Contract (6-9+ months)

Belcan is seeking a hands‑on Mechanical Engineer Thermal Analyst to support the design and analysis of reactor systems and components. This role directly influences high‑consequence thermo‑mechanical design decisions in a first‑of‑a‑kind advanced reactor.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop steady‑state and transient thermal and thermal‑hydraulic models for reactor components and systems (vessels, internals, piping, core supports, and auxiliary systems).
• Provide temperature distributions, heat loads, and thermal boundary conditions for structural FEA and ASME Section III, Division 5 design analyses.
• Collaborate with structural engineers to iterate designs and achieve acceptable thermo‑mechanical margins.
• Use first‑principles modeling, hand calculations, and CFD/system simulations to scope problems, validate results, and communicate key physics.
• Support high‑temperature fluid systems design and provide thermal guidance to system and safety teams.
• Produce clear, review‑ready calculation packages, technical memos, and design reports.

Qualifications:

• BS in Mechanical, Nuclear, Chemical, Aerospace Engineering, or related field (MS/PhD preferred).
• 3‑7+ years of experience in thermal analysis, thermal‑fluids, or thermal‑hydraulics for safety‑critical or complex systems (nuclear, power, aerospace, chemical/process).
• Hands‑on experience with CFD tools (STAR-CCM+, Fluent, ANSYS, or similar), thermal network/system analysis, and thermal‑structural interface with FEA.
• Familiarity with ASME BPVC Section III, Division 5 or equivalent design‑by‑analysis practices.
• Strong foundation in heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and first‑principles modeling.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills in a multi‑disciplinary team environment.
• Scripting and data analysis experience (Python, MATLAB) is a plus.

Belcan is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Contract

Job function

Engineering, Manufacturing, and Production