Principal Thermal Engineer Thermal Engineering leads and delivers the development of innovative and compliant thermal design solutions, as well as cross-functional interfaces for computer systems and peripherals. Our team conducts the analysis, feasibility studies and testing of thermal products, instruments, subassemblies and packaging for new and existing products – and then oversees the introduction of design changes to the manufacturing organizations. As AI growth is accelerating, Dell Technologies is developing ground-breaking technologies and customer solutions to lead the industry. These technologies are rapidly changing and we’re developing best-in class AI, Cloud, High Performance Computing (HPC), Edge computing devices and enterprise networking, server and storage products. Join us to do the best work of your career and make a profound social impact as a Senior Principal Thermal Engineer on our Thermal Engineering team in Austin, Texas.

What you’ll achieve

Dell Technologies is seeking a Principal Thermal Engineer to design and validate advanced thermal solutions for our Artificial Intelligence (AI), High‑Performance Computing (HPC), and enterprise server product lines. You will define system‑level thermal strategy, develop next‑generation cooling technologies, and deliver reliable air‑ and liquid‑cooled designs.

Responsibilities

Architect system‑level thermal solutions including cold plates, heat sinks, vapor chambers, fans, and airflow or coolant pathways
Conduct analytical modeling, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, and empirical testing
Drive thermal architecture decisions balancing performance, acoustics, cost, and long‑term reliability
Collaborate with mechanical engineering teams, suppliers, and Original Design Manufacturer (ODM) / Joint Design Manufacturer (JDM) partners
Mentor junior engineers and ensure compliance with Dell quality and sustainability standards

Take the first step towards your dream career

Every Dell Technologies team member brings something unique to the table. Here’s what we are looking for with this role:

Essential Requirements

8+ years of experience in thermal engineering or a related field, must include experience designing cold plates, heat sinks, or advanced thermal components
Strong knowledge of heat transfer, internal and external fluid dynamics, and electronics cooling
Proficiency in Creo for mechanical design and FloEFD (or equivalent tools) for thermal simulation
Hands‑on experience interpreting CFD and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) results
Expertise in system‑level thermal architecture and engineering tradeoffs

Desirable Qualifications

Experience with liquid cooling systems, Cooling Distribution Units (CDUs), Cooling Distribution Networks (CDNs), or advanced air‑cooling methods

Compensation

Dell is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The base salary range for this position is $144,500-$187,000. Benefits and Perks of working at Dell Technologies Your life. Your health. Supported by your benefits. You can explore the overall benefits experience that awaits you as a Dell Technologies team member — right now at MyWellatDell.com Who we are We believe that each of us has the power to make an impact. That’s why we put our team members at the center of everything we do. If you’re looking for an opportunity to grow your career with some of the best minds and most advanced tech in the industry, we’re looking for you. Dell Technologies is a unique family of businesses that helps individuals and organizations transform how they work, live and play. Join us to build a future that works for everyone because Progress Takes All of Us. Dell Technologies is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. Read the full Equal Employment Opportunity Policy here. Job ID: R285246 Request an Accommodation