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Senior Thermal Management Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI

Posted: 03/04/2026 Employment Type: Contract Job Industry: Defense/Government Job Number: 26-00076

Job Description


Senior Thermal Management Senior Engineer

Location: Sterling Heights, MI
Employment Type: Contract | Hours: 40 hrs./week, Mon–Fri
$78-$84/hourly

About the Role:

You will lead the design, development, and release of advanced thermal management and HVAC subsystems supporting complex vehicle platforms. This role is critical to ensuring reliable heating, cooling, and ventilation performance for powertrain, electronics, and crew environments. You will collaborate cross-functionally and guide suppliers to deliver high-quality, mission-ready solutions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead mechanical and thermal design of HVAC systems for powertrain, electronics, and crew cabin applications

  • Develop vehicle-level thermal performance requirements and engineering design specifications

  • Perform 1-D fluid flow analysis to size and optimize thermal distribution systems

  • Design, select, and integrate HVAC components and subsystems

  • Conduct trade studies and evaluate alternative design concepts

  • Prepare CAD studies and support development of engineering models and drawings

  • Manage weight, cost, thermal, and power allocations

  • Develop and maintain Technical Data Packages (TDPs) and support drawing releases

  • Support supplier selection, technical evaluations, and design reviews

  • Oversee supplier design development, validation activities, and corrective actions

  • Support prototype builds, testing, and production issue resolution

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

  • Extensive experience in thermal or mechanical engineering roles (senior-level experience preferred)

  • Strong understanding of thermal systems, heat transfer, and HVAC principles

  • Proficiency in 1-D fluid system modeling and heat exchanger sizing

  • Experience supporting prototype and/or production build activities

  • Familiarity with Teamcenter and Vis Mockup

  • Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills

  • Ability to travel up to 20% as needed

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience supporting military or heavy vehicle platforms

  • Background in supplier management and technical oversight

  • Experience preparing SOWs, RFP documentation, and technical reports

  • Eligibility to obtain a U.S. Security clearance

Additional Details (optional)

  • Role may require working in and around vehicle platforms and confined spaces

  • Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on project needs

  • Opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and advanced engineering solutions

Why Join CPI?

  • Exciting, research-driven projects with real-world impact

  • Opportunities for ongoing learning and career development

  • Competitive perks and incentives tailored to each contract position

About Us:
Contract Professionals, Inc. (CPI), founded by an Air Force veteran, is an award-winning talent solutions company connecting top talent with leading employers in defense, aerospace, and mobility industries. Https://www.Cpijobs.Com/

Meet Your Recruiter

Jimmy Tallent
Technical Recruiter

As a proud U.S. Army veteran with an extensive 28-year service record, Jimmy Tallent dedicated two decades of his life to active duty and an additional eight years in the Army Reserve, contributing his time, talent and commitment  to various vital aspects of military service. His journey has been diverse, spanning roles in aviation, transportation, and recruiting, allowing him to develop a versatile skill set and a deep understanding of the military landscape.

Originally hailing from the city of Chattanooga, TN, Jimmy embarked on his military career with a passion for service and a commitment to excellence. Throughout his tenure, he served in dynamic and challenging roles, which included the precision and expertise demanded by the  aviation industry, the strategic logistics of transportation, and the interpersonal and leadership skills required in the recruiting field.

In addition to his rich military experience, he pursued and earned a degree in business management, further enhancing his knowledge and capabilities. With this academic achievement, coupled with his practical experience, positioned him as a professional with a comprehensive understanding of both military and business landscapes.

Today, Jimmy is excited to leverage his leadership, organizational, and strategic skills at Contract Professionals, Inc. Jimmy is driven by his commitment to excellence, his discipline instilled through years of military service, and his passion for overcoming challenges. He approaches every opportunity with the same dedication and integrity, which defined his military career.

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