Thermal Design Engineer

About the Role

The Staff Thermal Design Engineer leads the development of key thermal components and systems from concept to engineering release of new products. The focus is on running server system thermal tests using data acquisition equipment, thermal stress test software, and external power control equipment. The engineer troubleshoots thermal and airflow issues in new and existing product lines using empirical data and commercial CFD software.

The role also involves developing thermal components in 3D CAD, advanced analysis, owning thermal design and optimization for new hardware, and evaluating thermal technology across compute and storage devices.

• Create analytical and numerical models by CFD or relevant simulation tools to describe system thermal for new projects.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams throughout the product development process, from conceptualization to prototyping and production.
• Work with the engineering team to optimize the thermal performance of servers using empirical data and bench test methods.
• Develop and execute test plans to measure thermal performance/efficiency of hardware and thermal technologies.
• Manage the full cycle program/project of key thermal components from engineering design to new product release.
• Design and investigate innovative thermal cooling solutions for server/rack level products.
• Interface with the Firmware team to implement fan speed control algorithm.
• Optimize airflow speed, volume, and flow paths to meet customer and component requirements.
• Proactively resolve any performance issues that arise, ensuring delivery of high‑quality solutions.
• Analyze and solve technical problems/issues in a fast‑paced environment.
• Produce engineering documents that include design drawings, thermal reports, installation manuals from test and simulation data/results.
• Maintain continuous improvement to uphold the highest quality standards.
• Select and decide appropriate methods and plans to verify thermal issues and ensure good system thermal performance.
• Engage with external vendors, including ODM and component vendors, on design, test, and production.
• Support new and existing product lines by verifying/confirming thermal and/or airflow related issues and providing solutions.
• Assist the procurement team to identify and manage heat sink, air mover, and liquid cooling vendors.

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Electrical Engineering. Master’s degree strongly preferred.
• Eight or more years of related experience.
• Experience with server testing and/or simulation is a plus.
• Strong background in heat transfer and fluid dynamics with expertise in electronics cooling.
• CAD (Creo or Solid Works) and CFD experience required (Flo Therm or Ice Pack).
• Lab testing experience, instrumentation, data acquisition, and data analysis skills.
• Automated test infrastructure experience using LabVIEW and scripted languages such as Python.
• Hands‑on testing and lab work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and problem‑solving ability.
• Self‑motivated root‑cause resolution, continual learning, and knowledge sharing.
• Comprehensive understanding of system‑level server platforms and component interplay.
• Strong comprehension of hardware and firmware/software interactions and troubleshooting.
• Proactive orientation toward identifying opportunities and potential problems.
• Strong project management and planning/priority‑setting abilities.

• Competitive base salary and performance‑based annual bonus.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Tuition reimbursement for eligible education programs.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life and disability insurance, mental health resources, and employee wellness programs.
• Paid time off (PTO) and company‑paid holidays.
• Parental leave and family care support programs.
• Structured training programs and on‑the‑job learning opportunities.
• Matching gifts and volunteer programs to support causes you care about.

ZT Systems, a Sanmina Company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All applicants receive equal opportunity for employment, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.