If you're energized by solving complex systems challenges, excited to work alongside AI to amplify your impact, and motivated by the opportunity to shape what's next instead of simply maintaining what's been done before, you'll find your place here.
Join us and help build the future of enterprise technology.
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 Principal Thermal Engineer on our Thermal Engineering team in Round Rock, 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.
You will
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 experience, or equivalent skill, in a Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or a related field; must include experience designing and developing thermal solutions for complex electro-mechanical systems
Expertise in thermal management technologies, including heat sinks, cold plates, vapor chambers, fans, airflow management, and liquid cooling systems
Experience performing thermal analysis using analytical modeling, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and hands-on validation testing to optimize system performance
Demonstrated ability to make system-level thermal architecture decisions by balancing thermal performance, acoustics, cost, manufacturability, and reliability requirements
Proven experience collaborating cross-functionally with mechanical engineering teams, suppliers, and ODM/JDM partners to deliver products from concept through production
Desirable Requirements
Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Heat Transfer, or a related discipline.
Experience developing thermal solutions for enterprise servers, AI/HPC platforms, or data center infrastructure, including liquid cooling and rack-level thermal management technologies; experience working with CREO; experience with air and liquid cooling in server industry; knowledge of cooling requirements for GPU’s and CPU’s
Compensation
Dell is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The base salary range for this position is $152k - $209k.
