Mechanical Engineer- Thermal/Refrigeration Systems

Seeking a Mechanical Engineer- Thermal/Refrigeration Systems for a direct hire opportunity with our client in San Francisco, CA.

This position offers full benefits including generous PTO, Medical, Dental and a retirement/pension plan!

Salary is between $200,000 - $300,000 per year (based on experience)

As a Mechanical Engineer focused on Thermal/Refrigeration Systems, you will be responsible for refrigeration cycle optimization, compressor selection and integration, heat exchanger sizing, and overall thermal performance. This role requires deep expertise in vapor compression refrigeration systems and the ability to translate thermal requirements into production ready designs

Responsibilities:

• Lead thermal modeling and simulation of the refrigeration cycle, including compressor staging, superheat / subcooling control, and part load performance optimization
• Own the selection and integration of compressors
• Design and specify evaporators, condenser coils, and heat exchangers to meet target COP / IPLV specifications
• Develop P&IDs with all control loops, safety interlocks, and instrumentation for the refrigeration system
• Specify electronic expansion valves, refrigerant piping, and flow control components
• Work closely with controls engineering to define control strategies for compressor staging, capacity modulation, and fault handling
• Support refrigerant selection and regulatory compliance (R-1234ze(E) for EPA AIM Act compliance)
• Lead performance testing and validation, including full-load and part-load testing across operating range
• Drive certification efforts including ASHRAE 15, ASME B31.5, and UL 1995 compliance

Qualifications:

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 5+ years of experience in refrigeration system design, chiller development, or HVAC equipment engineering
• PE license preferred
• Deep understanding of vapor compression refrigeration cycles, including centrifugal compressor performance characteristics
• Experience with thermal modeling tools (EES, CoolPack, or similar) and refrigerant property databases
• Hands on experience bringing refrigeration equipment from concept through prototype to production
• Familiarity with low GWP refrigerants and evolving refrigerant regulations
• Experience with ASHRAE standards (15, 34, 90.1) and UL certification processes
• Strong analytical skills and comfort with ambiguity in early-stage product development

• Experience with magnetic bearing compressor platforms
• Background in data center cooling systems or high density thermal management
• Experience with DC powered equipment or variable speed compressor drives

If you are interested in learning more about this role, please submit your resume for immediate consideration!

INDH