Thermal Engineer

Mach-Industries; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Mach Industries seeks a Thermal Engineer to own the analysis, design, and validation of thermal systems across vehicle platforms. You’ll ensure avionics, propulsion, and structures withstand demanding environments while partnering with aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, mechanical, and test teams.

The ideal candidate has heat-transfer fundamentals, hands-on testing, and proficiency with STAR-CCM+, Icepak, Simscape, and AMESim. Bachelor’s in ME/AE required; Master’s preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience in thermal analysis for aerospace applications.
• Strong understanding of heat transfer and thermal loads.
• Proficiency with thermal analysis software and simulation tools.
• Experience with thermal testing and environmental testing.
• Ability to scale thermal solutions for mass production.
• Excellent collaboration in fast-paced, multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and optimize thermal management systems from system to component level.
• Assess heat transfer, thermal loads, and environmental effects on performance.
• Collaborate with propulsion, structural, and aero teams to integrate thermal solutions.
• Develop and execute thermal testing procedures and failure analysis.
• Create detailed thermal analysis reports and design guidelines.

Skills

Heat transfer

Thermal analysis

Aerospace experience

Cross-functional collaboration

Experimentation

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical/Aerospace

Master's preferred

Tools

STAR-CCM+

Icepak

Simscape

AMESim

Job description

Huntington Beach, California, United States

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

Mach Industries is seeking a Thermal Engineer to own the analysis, design, and validation of thermal systems across our vehicle platforms. This role will work from the system level down to individual components, ensuring avionics, propulsion systems, and vehicle structures can withstand demanding operating environments. You will partner closely with aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, mechanical, and test teams to develop practical thermal solutions that balance performance, reliability, manufacturability, and scale. The ideal candidate combines strong heat-transfer and simulation fundamentals with hands‑on experience testing and validating hardware.

Key Responsibilities

Design, analyze, and optimize thermal management systems for Mach’s vehicles from system to component level.

Perform analyses to understand how heat transfer, thermal loads, and environmental changes impact performance and the vehicle's structural integrity.

Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including propulsion, structural, and aerodynamics teams, to integrate thermal solutions into vehicle designs while maintaining performance and manufacturability.

Develop thermal testing procedures, including thermal cycling, environmental testing, and failure mode analysis, to ensure system reliability.

Provide actionable insights into how different types of thermal management systems influence vehicle performance.

Create technical documentation, including detailed thermal analysis reports, design guidelines, and test reports.

Required Qualifications

Experience in thermal analysis, with a focus on aerospace applications such as engines, avionics, and aircraft structures.

Strong understanding of heat transfer principles, thermal loads, and their effects on avionics and vehicle structural performance.

Proficiency in thermal analysis software and related simulation tools (e.g., STAR-CCM+, Icepak, Simscape, AMESim, etc.).

Experience with thermal testing, validation, and environmental testing methods.

Strong understanding of scalability and designing thermal solutions suitable for mass production.

Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with experience working in fast‑paced, multidisciplinary environments.

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field; a Master’s degree is preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with conjugate heat transfer (CHT) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD).

Hands‑on experience with rapid design and prototyping of thermal management systems.

Experience with thermal analysis and design for high altitude aircraft or satellites.

Familiarity with integration of thermal management systems into unmanned systems or other defense platforms.

Experience developing software in languages such as Python or MATLAB to analyze results and automate processes.

Additional Requirements

• Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITARhere .

$115,000 - $150,000 USD

$155,000 - $195,000 USD

At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends.

Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy:

• Competitive Salaries: We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location.
• Performance-Based Incentives: Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win‑win scenario that motivates our team members to excel.
• Equity Participation: We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company.
• Benefit Packages: Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well‑being extends beyond the office.
• Professional Development: We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth.
• Transparency: We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect.

By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long‑term success.

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!