We are seeking a passionate and hands-on Thermal Design Engineer to join TAKACHAR's innovative product development team. You'll be at the forefront of developing thermal systems that transform waste into valuable products, working on cutting-edge projects involving heat utilization from chimneys, thermal recovery systems, heat jackets, and other thermal management solutions. This role emphasizes experimental design thinking, rapid prototyping, and field validation of thermal systems.

Key Responsibilities:

Thermal System Design & Development:

- Design and develop thermal systems for heat utilization from chimneys, furnaces, and industrial waste heat sources.

- Create thermal management solutions, including heat jackets, heat exchangers, and thermal recovery systems.

- Lead thermal design projects from concept sketching to field-ready prototypes.

- Apply design thinking methodologies to solve complex thermal engineering challenges.

- Design thermal systems with a focus on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and real-world applicability.

Analysis & Mathematical Modelling:

- Conduct thermal analysis using CFD tools (ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL, or similar) to validate and optimize designs.

- Perform heat transfer calculations, thermal modelling, and energy balance analysis.

- Create mathematical models to predict thermal system performance under various operating conditions.

- Analyze thermal efficiency, heat recovery potential, and system optimization opportunities.

- Validate theoretical models through experimental testing and field data collection.

Rapid Prototyping & Experimental Work:

- Build and test thermal system prototypes quickly using available materials and fabrication methods.

- Design and conduct controlled experiments to validate thermal design concepts.

- Develop testing protocols for thermal performance evaluation.

- Fabricate proof-of-concept thermal systems for field testing.

- Iterate rapidly based on experimental results and performance data.

- Troubleshoot thermal system issues and implement design improvements.

Field Work & Real-World Validation:

- Willingness to work in field environments, including rural areas, industrial sites, and customer locations

- Preparing a plan to install, commission, and test thermal systems in real-world operating conditions

- Collect performance data from deployed thermal systems and analyze field results

- Collaborate with local teams and customers to understand thermal application requirements

- Adapt designs based on field feedback and environmental constraints

- Document field performance and create recommendations for system improvements

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or related field

- 2+ years of hands-on experience in thermal system design and heat transfer applications

- Proven experience working with thermal systems such as heat recovery, waste heat utilization, or similar applications

- Portfolio demonstrating thermal design projects, prototypes, and experimental work

Technical Skills:

- CFD Analysis: Working knowledge and hands-on experience with ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL, or equivalent thermal simulation tools

- Basic CAD Proficiency: Functional skills in SolidWorks, OnShape, or similar CAD software for thermal system modelling

- Mathematical Modelling: Strong analytical skills for heat transfer calculations, energy balance, and thermal efficiency analysis

- Heat Transfer Fundamentals: Deep understanding of conduction, convection, radiation, and thermal system design principles

- Thermal Applications: Experience with chimney heat recovery, heat jackets, heat exchangers, or industrial thermal systems

- Basic Fabrication: Knowledge of welding, sheet metal work, pipe fitting, and thermal insulation techniques

Experimental & Field Skills:

- Prototyping Mindset: Ability to quickly build, test, and iterate thermal system prototypes

- Experimental Design: Experience designing and conducting thermal performance experiments

- Instrumentation: Familiarity with temperature sensors, flow meters, pressure gauges, and thermal measurement equipment

- Field Readiness: Willingness and ability to work in diverse field environments including rural and industrial settings

- Problem-Solving: Hands-on troubleshooting skills for thermal system issues and performance optimization

Soft Skills:

- Experimental mindset with strong curiosity and willingness to try new approaches

- Excellent documentation and communication skills for field reports and technical presentations

- Collaborative team player comfortable working with cross-functional and local teams

- Adaptability to work in challenging environments and varying project conditions

- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently in field settings.

- Strong attention to safety protocols in thermal system work.

Preferred Qualifications (Bonus):

- Experience with biomass thermal systems, waste-to-energy applications, or rural energy solutions

- Knowledge of thermal system controls, automation, and monitoring systems

- Familiarity with sustainability and circular economy principles

- Prior experience working on projects in rural or resource-constrained environments

- Understanding of regulatory requirements for thermal systems and emissions

- Experience with data logging systems and remote monitoring of thermal equipment

What We Offer:

- Work on cutting-edge thermal solutions with real environmental and social impact

- Hands-on role with significant field work and prototype development opportunities

- Collaborative, mission-driven work environment focused on sustainability

- Opportunity to see your thermal designs deployed in real-world applications

- Professional development in both technical and field engineering skills

- Diverse project portfolio across different thermal applications and geographies

Ideal Candidate Profile:

You're a thermal engineer with a maker's mindset and field experience. You love getting your hands dirty building and testing thermal systems, and you're equally comfortable with CFD analysis and wielding a welding torch. You thrive in field environments, enjoy experimental work, and are passionate about creating thermal solutions that make a real difference. You see challenges as opportunities to innovate and aren't afraid to iterate quickly based on what you learn in the field.