Thermal Engineer (Austin, TX)

As a Thermal Engineer at Exowatt in Austin, TX, your primary responsibilities will involve designing, analyzing, and optimizing thermal management systems for our products. You'll perform thermal analyses using advanced simulation tools and engage in experimental methods to ensure our energy systems meet performance requirements. Collaborating with cross-functional teams will also be crucial as you integrate innovative thermal solutions into product designs and develop robust testing procedures.

To be a successful Thermal Engineer at Exowatt, you will need a BS/MS/PHD in Mechanical or Thermal Engineering, along with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience. Proficiency in mechanical CAD and a solid understanding of heat transfer fundamentals in energy systems are essential. Your analytical skills must be strong, with experience in finite element analysis (FEA) being highly preferred.

At Exowatt, the salary for a Thermal Engineer in Austin, TX, ranges from $140,000 to $170,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Alongside this competitive salary, we also offer equity options and a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and retirement plans.

In the role of a Thermal Engineer at Exowatt, you will engage in a variety of thermal analyses such as predicting and validating thermal performance through simulation tools and experimental methods. You'll focus on analyzing mechanical and electronic systems under different environmental conditions, aiming to optimize the thermal efficiency of our energy solutions.

As a Thermal Engineer at Exowatt, located in Austin, TX, you can look forward to a dynamic work environment that prioritizes creativity and innovation. You will be part of a collaborative culture where fast-paced development is the norm, providing opportunities for professional growth and active participation in groundbreaking projects within the renewable energy sector.

When answering this question, focus on specific thermal analysis techniques you've employed in previous roles, such as simulation software or experimental methods. Detail how you applied these techniques to solve real-world thermal issues and how you've collaborated with teams to integrate these analyses into product designs.

To effectively answer this question, describe your step-by-step approach starting with understanding the product requirements. Discuss how you would conduct research, collaborate with teams, implement simulation tools, and iterate designs to ensure the thermal management system is both efficient and reliable.

Share specific examples of thermal design challenges you've encountered, such as component overheating or thermal inefficiencies. Emphasize your analytical skills and problem-solving strategies, detailing how you identified root causes and implemented solutions, along with the results of those interventions.

In your response, highlight any relevant projects where you designed or analyzed heat exchangers for high-temperature environments. Discuss the materials, design considerations, and performance metrics involved, demonstrating your understanding of thermal challenges in such applications.

Discuss your commitment to continuous learning, such as attending industry conferences, participating in webinars, or following relevant publications. Mention any professional organizations you belong to or certifications you are pursuing that demonstrate your dedication to staying current in the field.

To address this question, reference specific documentation you’ve created, such as technical reports, testing plans, or procedures. Explain the importance of clear documentation in product development and how it facilitated communication among team members.

Share a particular instance where you simplified complex thermal concepts for less technical stakeholders. Focus on how you tailored your presentation style to engage the audience and communicate important information effectively and clearly.

In your response, articulate the critical role that simulation tools play in predicting thermal behavior and optimizing designs. Mention how you've utilized these tools to enhance accuracy in thermal analyses and support design iterations, thereby reducing time and costs in the development process.

When responding, outline the systematic approach you take when conducting failure analysis, including data collection, root cause identification, and corrective actions. Share specific tools or methodologies you employ to effectively address thermal failures.

Articulate your enthusiasm for sustainable energy solutions and how Exowatt's mission aligns with your values. Discuss your admiration for the company's innovative approaches and the opportunity to make a significant impact in the renewable energy sector through your role as a Thermal Engineer.