Thermal Systems Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary and benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Located in Nelspruit area

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Thermal Systems Engineer to join our client’s R&D team in Nelspruit. You will design, analyze, and optimize thermal management systems for high‑performance applications, leveraging thermodynamics, heat transfer and fluid dynamics to deliver reliable, efficient solutions.

Responsibilities include CFD and FEA simulations, selecting components, developing test plans, validating designs, and collaborating with mechanical and electrical engineers.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering with specialization in thermodynamics and heat transfer.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in the design and analysis of thermal systems.
• Proficiency in CFD software and thermal analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop thermal management systems, including heat exchangers, cooling loops, and thermal storage solutions.
• Perform thermal analysis and simulations using CFD and finite element tools.
• Optimize system performance for efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop test plans and conduct experimental validation of thermal systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate thermal systems.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports and test procedures.
• Stay abreast of advancements in thermal engineering and related technologies.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Fluid dynamics

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

STAR-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in innovative energy solutions, is seeking a talented Thermal Systems Engineer to join their research and development team in Nelspruit. This role focuses on the design, analysis, and optimization of thermal management systems for a range of high-performance applications, including renewable energy storage and industrial process heating. You will leverage your expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics to develop efficient and reliable thermal solutions. The position involves extensive use of simulation tools and analytical methods to predict system performance and ensure design integrity. Working within a collaborative R&D environment in Nelspruit, you will contribute to cutting-edge projects that address critical energy challenges. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled engineer passionate about thermal science and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop thermal management systems, including heat exchangers, cooling loops, and thermal storage solutions.
• Perform thermal analysis and simulations using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA) tools.
• Optimize system performance for efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Specify and select appropriate thermal components, materials, and fluids.
• Develop test plans and conduct experimental validation of thermal systems.
• Analyze test data, interpret results, and provide recommendations for design improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical designers and electrical engineers, to integrate thermal systems.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, analysis summaries, and test procedures.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in thermal engineering and relevant technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field with a specialization in thermodynamics and heat transfer.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in the design and analysis of thermal systems.
• Proficiency in CFD software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+) and thermal analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of heat transfer principles, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics.
• Experience with experimental testing and data acquisition for thermal systems.
• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and reporting skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a hybrid team setting.
• Experience in energy storage or industrial heating systems is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and involvement in innovative R&D projects.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Located in the scenic region of Nelspruit.
• Be part of a company driving sustainable energy solutions.