Senior Thermal Engineer - Data Center
WFA Digital Insight
As demand for data center efficiency grows, thermal engineers with expertise in AI hardware are in high demand. With a 25% increase in data center investments in 2025, professionals with strong knowledge of heat transfer and fluid mechanics are sought after. Johnson Controls, a leader in thermal management, offers a unique opportunity for remote work and innovation. Before applying, candidates should be prepared to showcase their expertise in CFD tools and instrumentation, as well as their ability to work independently and drive results.
Job Description
About the Role
The Senior Thermal Engineer role at Johnson Controls is a critical position that entails developing, validating, and deploying liquid cooling solutions for hyperscale, colocation, and AI/HPC data centers. As a key member of the Data Center Thermal Solutions team, you will work closely with cross-functional teams to design, analyze, and deploy liquid cooling systems, ensuring the highest level of performance and efficiency. With a strong focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, this role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and contribute to the growth of the company.The team is part of the Advanced Technology & Innovation group, which is dedicated to driving technological advancements in the field of thermal management. As a Senior Thermal Engineer, you will be responsible for leading the development of new technologies and solutions, collaborating with internal stakeholders and external partners to align solutions with customer demands.
The role is remote-based, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere, while still being connected to a global team of experts.
What You Will Do
- Design, analyze, and deploy liquid cooling systems (single-phase, two-phase, immersion, and hybrid) for high-density data centers
- Perform thermal modeling, CFD simulations, and performance optimization for CPU and GPU workloads
- Commission and validate CDUs, cold plates, immersion tanks, and thermal test vehicles at lab and facility scale
- Evaluate system resiliency and reliability under operational and failure scenarios
- Collaborate with hyperscalers, OEMs, and partners to align solutions with AI/HPC workload demands
- Contribute to patent filings, publications, and industry standards engagement
- Develop and maintain technical documentation and reports
- Provide technical support and training to internal stakeholders and external customers
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies, applying this knowledge to drive innovation and improvement
What We Are Looking For
- PhD or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- Proven data center cooling experience, particularly in GPU/AI hardware environments
- Strong knowledge of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics
- Proficiency in CFD tools (ANSYS, Fluent, Modelica, Icepak, Cadence 6Sigma) and instrumentation for performance validation
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, set priorities, and deliver results with minimal supervision
- Track record of innovation, patents, or technical publications in thermal management
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities
Nice to Have
- Experience with AI/HPC workload simulations and modeling
- Familiarity with data center design and operation
- Knowledge of industry standards and regulations (e.g. ASHRAE, ISO)
- Experience with agile development methodologies and version control systems (e.g. Git)
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and technologies
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Flexible working hours and remote work options
- Professional development opportunities and training programs
- Access to industry-leading tools and resources
- Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance and contributions
- Comprehensive health and wellness programs
- Generous paid time off and holiday entitlement
How to Stand Out
- When applying, be sure to highlight your experience with CFD tools and instrumentation, as well as your ability to work independently and drive results.
- Showcase your knowledge of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics, and be prepared to provide specific examples of your work in these areas.
- Familiarize yourself with industry trends and emerging technologies, and be prepared to discuss how you can apply this knowledge to drive innovation and improvement.
- Emphasize your ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, and provide examples of your experience with technical documentation and reporting.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with data center design and operation, and how you can contribute to the development of new technologies and solutions.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions during the interview process, and be sure to ask about opportunities for professional development and growth within the company.
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