Project Engineer (Thermal Management)

TL;DR

Project Engineer (Thermal Management): Leading the technical execution of chiller products from concept through production release with an accent on New Product Introduction (NPI) and cross-functional coordination. Focus on translating requirements into manufacturable designs using SolidWorks and validating performance through FEA and simulations.

Location: Hybrid in Knoxville, TN or Remote from West Michigan

Company

An innovative thermal management solutions startup focusing on advanced cooling technologies to improve performance and efficiency across various industries.

What you will do

• Lead engineering activities across all product development phases, from initial concept and detailed design to prototype and production release.
• Translate product requirements into manufacturable designs, creating and approving engineering drawings, BOMs, CAD models, and specifications.
• Develop and execute New Product Introduction (NPI) plans, tracking schedules, risks, and costs for stakeholders.
• Perform engineering calculations, DFMEA, and FEA simulations to validate designs for safety, reliability, and performance.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as suppliers and procurement, to meet project objectives.
• Manage change control for engineering revisions and coordinate ECOs with production and suppliers.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience designing and launching products in a manufacturing setting.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
• Must be based in the Knoxville, TN area (for hybrid work) or West Michigan (for remote work).
• Proven experience leading design reviews and managing cross-functional technical meetings.

Nice to have

• Working knowledge of PLM/PDM systems such as 3DExperience, SW PDM, Windchill, or Teamcenter.
• Familiarity with refrigeration cycle thermodynamics and plumbing/hydraulics.
• Understanding of industrial electrical systems, components, and the UL certification process.
• Background in Lean Product Development principles and ISO 9000 design requirements.

Culture & Benefits

• Values-driven environment focused on innovation, precision, and collaboration.
• Fast-paced, hands-on culture where ownership and continuous improvement are highly encouraged.
• Entrepreneurial and forward-thinking atmosphere within a growing organization.
• Strong emphasis on professional development and achieving measurable results.