Remote Thermal Systems Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full remote work

Home office allowance

Health insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Thermal Systems Engineer to join a global R&D team focused on advanced cooling solutions for high-performance electronics. The role is fully remote within South Africa, emphasizing design, analysis, and optimization of thermal management systems.

You will apply CFD/FEA tools, develop robust cooling strategies, and collaborate with cross-functional teams across time zones, delivering thorough reports and design specs while maintaining independence in a remote

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with specialization in heat transfer and thermodynamics.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in thermal analysis and design, especially electronics cooling.
• Expertise with CFD/FEA tools and CAD software for thermal components.
• Strong capability to work remotely and communicate across time zones.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop thermal management solutions including heat sinks and cooling systems.
• Perform detailed thermal analyses using CFD/FEA tools.
• Simulate temperature distributions and heat flux under varying conditions.
• Collaborate with design and R&D teams to integrate thermal solutions.
• Develop test plans and support validation of thermal designs.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and design specifications.
• Stay updated with advancements in thermal management technologies.

Skills

Heat transfer

CFD

FEA

Electronics cooling

Remote work

Communication

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

STAR-CCM+

COMSOL Multiphysics

SolidWorks / CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the development of advanced cooling solutions for high-performance electronics and industrial applications, is seeking a highly skilled Remote Thermal Systems Engineer to join their global R&D team. This role is entirely remote, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for the design, analysis, and optimization of thermal management systems, ensuring optimal operating temperatures for complex electronic components and machinery. This position requires a strong foundation in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and advanced simulation techniques (CFD, FEA). You will collaborate virtually with engineers and scientists across different disciplines and time zones to develop innovative thermal solutions. The ideal candidate is a proactive, detail-oriented individual with excellent communication skills and a proven ability to manage projects independently in a remote setting. We are looking for a passionate engineer eager to contribute to cutting‑edge thermal management technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop thermal management solutions, including heat sinks, liquid cooling systems, and thermal interface materials.
• Perform detailed thermal analysis using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools.
• Simulate and predict temperature distributions, heat flux, and fluid flow patterns under various operating conditions.
• Collaborate virtually with product design and R&D teams to integrate thermal solutions into new product developments.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes for thermal components.
• Develop test plans and support experimental validation of thermal designs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve thermal‑related issues in prototypes and production units.
• Create detailed technical reports, documentation, and design specifications.
• Stay up‑to‑date with the latest advancements in thermal management technology and simulation techniques.
• Provide technical guidance and support to internal teams and external partners.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in heat transfer and thermodynamics.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in thermal analysis and design, with a strong focus on electronics cooling or similar applications.
• Expertise in CFD software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, COMSOL Multiphysics) and FEA software.
• Proficiency in CAD software for thermal component design.
• Strong understanding of heat transfer principles, fluid dynamics, and material properties.
• Experience with thermal testing methodologies and equipment.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage tasks effectively in a remote environment.
• Familiarity with electronics packaging and semiconductor devices is a plus.
• Must be legally authorized to work remotely in South Africa.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance‑based bonuses.
• Opportunity to work on innovative projects with significant industry impact.
• Full remote work flexibility and control over your work environment.
• Home office equipment and technology allowance.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Professional development opportunities, including training and conferences.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating virtual team.