Thermal Engineer

Overview

Gencor is seeking an experienced Thermal Engineer to support the design, analysis, optimization, and troubleshooting of thermal and combustion systems used in asphalt production and heavy industrial equipment manufacturing. The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in heat transfer, combustion systems, airflow dynamics, and industrial process heating while working closely with mechanical, electrical, and controls engineering teams.

This role is critical in improving equipment efficiency, combustion performance, emissions compliance, and overall plant reliability across asphalt production systems.

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE.

• Design and optimize thermal systems utilized in asphalt plants and heavy industrial equipment, including burners, dryers, combustion chambers, heat exchangers, and related process heating equipment.
• Perform thermal and airflow analysis to improve heat transfer efficiency, fuel consumption, and production performance.
• Troubleshoot combustion and thermal system issues in both manufacturing and field environments.
• Support burner tuning, flame optimization, and emissions reduction initiatives.
• Collaborate with controls engineers on combustion controls, instrumentation, PLC integration, and burner management systems.
• Conduct thermal performance testing and assist with commissioning and startup activities at customer job sites as needed.
• Develop engineering calculations, technical specifications, and supporting documentation.
• Partner with manufacturing and service teams to resolve field issues and implement product improvements.
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety, environmental, and industry standards including NFPA and emissions regulations.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts focused on equipment reliability, efficiency, and product innovation.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• 5+ years of experience with industrial thermal systems, combustion equipment, process heating, or asphalt plant equipment.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, combustion principles, and fluid dynamics.
• Experience working with industrial burners, rotary dryers, asphalt plants, aggregate equipment, or similar heavy industrial systems preferred.
• Familiarity with combustion controls, PLC systems, instrumentation, and burner management systems (BMS).
• Ability to troubleshoot complex thermal and combustion performance issues.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for field support, commissioning, and customer site visits.

• Experience with in asphalt, aggregate, or heavy equipment manufacturing industries
• Knowledge of natural gas, propane, or fuel oil combustion systems
• Experience with emissions reduction and fuel efficiency optimization
• Familiarity with AutoCAD, Solid Works, or thermal modeling software
• Understanding of NFPA, OSHA, and environmental compliance standards