Principal Thermal Engineer - HVAC Systems

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

High salary package

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Thermal Engineer to lead advanced thermal design and analysis for high‑efficiency HVAC systems in Benoni, Gauteng. You will oversee modeling, validation, and optimization, mentoring engineers across functions.

The role requires a PhD/ME with 10+ years in HVAC, strong CFD experience, and a track record of delivering energy‑efficient solutions while ensuring compliance in South Africa.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering with thermodynamics/heat transfer focus.
• 10+ years in thermal system design, analysis, and development in HVAC or related industries.
• Experience leading complex engineering projects and mentoring engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and optimization of thermal management systems for HVAC equipment.
• Perform thermodynamic and heat transfer analyses using CFD to predict performance and efficiency.
• Develop and validate thermal models for components and full HVAC units.
• Oversee material, refrigerant, and component selection to meet performance and environmental requirements.
• Collaborate across product development, manufacturing, and testing to validate designs.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of engineers.
• Stay current with industry trends, regulatory changes, and energy efficiency standards.

Skills

Leadership

Mentorship

Analytical thinking

Project management

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

COMSOL

Star-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leader in developing advanced building systems, specializing in high-efficiency HVAC solutions for commercial and industrial applications. We are seeking a distinguished Principal Thermal Engineer to lead our thermal design and analysis efforts in Benoni, Gauteng. This senior position requires deep expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics to innovate and optimize thermal management systems. You will be responsible for guiding the development of cutting‑edge HVAC technologies, ensuring superior performance, energy efficiency, and environmental compliance. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on sustainable building solutions and to mentor a talented team of engineers in Benoni, Gauteng, shaping the future of climate control technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and optimization of thermal management systems for advanced HVAC equipment.


• Conduct detailed thermodynamic and heat transfer analysis using CFD and other simulation tools to predict system performance and efficiency.


• Develop and validate thermal models for components, sub-systems, and complete HVAC units.


• Oversee the selection of appropriate materials, refrigerants, and components to meet performance and environmental requirements.


• Collaborate with product development, manufacturing, and testing teams to ensure seamless integration and validation of thermal designs.


• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of thermal engineers and designers.


• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes in HVAC and energy efficiency.


• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, analysis reports, and performance validation data.


• Champion innovation in thermal system design to achieve industry-leading efficiency and reduced environmental impact for applications in Benoni, Gauteng.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering with a strong focus on thermodynamics and heat transfer.


• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in thermal system design, analysis, and development, particularly in HVAC or related industries.


• Extensive experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL, Star-CCM+).


• Deep understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer principles, psychrometrics, and fluid mechanics.


• Proven ability to lead complex engineering projects and mentor junior team members.


• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively present technical information to diverse audiences.


• Experience with product lifecycle management (PLM) tools is a plus.


• Must be willing to work on‑site in Benoni, Gauteng.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry‑leading salary package, including a substantial base salary and performance‑based incentives.


• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits are provided, covering medical, dental, and vision care.


• A generous retirement savings plan is available, along with ample paid time off.


• We are committed to employee growth, offering extensive training opportunities, support for professional certifications, and chances to attend leading industry conferences.


• You will work within a collaborative and innovative environment with significant opportunities for career advancement.


• Our client values a strong work‑life balance for its employees in Benoni, Gauteng.