Senior R&D Thermal Engineer

Are you interested in joining a mission-driven, disruptive technology company at the ground floor? Accelsius is revolutionizing data center cooling through advanced direct-to-chip, two-phase cooling technology — solving one of the most pressing thermal and environmental challenges in the rapidly expanding digital infrastructure market.

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Senior R&D Thermal Engineer to support the development of next-generation two-phase cooling solutions. This role is ideal for a technically rigorous, innovative engineer who thrives in a fast-paced R&D environment and is excited to translate advanced thermo-fluid science into real-world hardware solutions. This position reports directly to the Principal Engineer and works cross-functionally with engineering, product, and leadership teams to advance Accelsius’ core cooling technologies. While we anticipate this role may be well-suited for an early-career Ph.D. graduate (0–3 years of industry experience), candidates with varying levels of experience will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Design, model, prototype, and test advanced two-phase cooling systems for data center applications
• Conduct experimental testing and performance validation of thermal-fluid systems
• Develop analytical and numerical models to support product design and optimization
• Contribute to invention disclosures and support patent application development
• Author technical papers, draft research proposals, and present findings at conferences and industry forums
• Collaborate cross-functionally to transition R&D concepts into scalable product solutions
• Document experimental results and maintain rigorous engineering records

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related heat transfer/thermo-fluid discipline
• 0–3 years of relevant industry or postdoctoral experience (additional experience considered)
• Strong foundation in thermo-fluid sciences, including both modeling and experimental work
• Hands-on experience building and testing hardware related to two-phase heat transfer systems, such as:
  • Boiling and condensation systems
  • Thermosyphons
  • Heat pipes or vapor chambers
• Demonstrated ability to translate theory into practical hardware solutions
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred

• Postdoctoral research experience
• Experience working in startup or fast-paced R&D environments
• Familiarity with data center thermal management applications

Benefits

• Competitive salary with equity
• Full range of benefits including medical and dental
• 401K
• Unlimited PTO

The position is based in Austin, Texas. This position includes the responsibilities outlined above and may also encompass additional duties as assigned to meet business and compliance needs.