Director of Engineering
A pioneering technology company focused on sustainable transportation is seeking a Director of Thermal Engineering to lead the development of high-temperature chemical reactors and combustion-based energy systems. This role encompasses advanced simulation, experimental validation, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure systems meet rigorous performance, safety, and reliability standards from concept through commercialization.
Key Responsibilities
Thermal & Reaction System Architecture
- Lead the design of catalytic reactors, reformers, burners, and integrated heat-exchanger networks.
- Integrate heat and mass transfer analysis with reaction kinetics to enhance efficiency, reduce emissions, and improve durability.
Computational Modeling
- Build and validate CFD/FEA models using tools such as ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, or COMSOL for complex thermal and fluid systems.
- Apply best practices in meshing, solver configuration, sensitivity analysis, and scale-up modeling.
Experimental Development
- Design and oversee high-temperature test setups, instrumentation selection, and data acquisition strategies.
- Use experimental data to refine models, update designs, and generate technical specifications.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with mechanical, electrical, controls, and materials engineering teams to develop integrated thermal management solutions.
- Provide technical mentorship and contribute to design reviews, safety assessments, and risk analyses.
Product Development & Program Support
- Define thermal performance requirements, contribute to DFMEA processes, and develop validation protocols.
- Assist in supplier evaluation, factory testing, and field troubleshooting during system deployment.
Qualifications
Education
- B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Mechanical, Chemical, or Aerospace Engineering (or related discipline), with a focus on combustion and thermal sciences.
Experience
- 15+ years in the design and analysis of high-temperature or chemically reactive systems.
Technical Expertise
- Deep understanding of conduction, convection, radiation, phase change, diffusion, and fluid dynamics.
- Proven experience integrating reaction kinetics with transport phenomena in combustion or catalytic systems.
- Advanced skills in commercial CFD/FEA software and post-processing techniques.
- Strong hands-on lab experience with reactor/burner setups, instrumentation, and uncertainty analysis.
Leadership & Safety
- Demonstrated ability to guide technical direction, influence multidisciplinary teams, and communicate complex findings effectively.
- Familiarity with safety standards and methodologies such as HAZOP and LOPA.
Preferred Skills
- Experience with hydrogen, syngas, or reforming systems involving combustion technologies.
- Background in scaling prototypes to pilot or commercial production.
- Understanding of control systems integration.
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