Heat Transfer and Thermodynamic Systems Researcher

Date Posted: 2026-09-16 Country: United States of America Location: US-CT-EAST HARTFORD-RTRC K ~ 411 Silver Ln ~ RTRC K Position Role Type: Hybrid U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements: U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance Type: None/Not Required Security Clearance Status: Not Required At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. What You Will Do Raytheon Technologies Research Center (RTRC) develops breakthrough technologies that power the world’s most advanced aerospace and defense products. As a Senior Research Engineer on our Heat Transfer or Thermodynamic Systems Team, you will lead advanced modeling, simulation, and system‑level analysis across a wide range of thermofluid and thermal‑management challenges. Your work will span multi‑physics, multi‑phase, and interfacial phenomena in complex geometries, supporting programs from microelectronics thermal management to next-generation propulsion systems. Key responsibilities include: Perform high‑fidelity and reduced‑order computational modeling of single‑ and two‑phase flows, including interfacial physics, phase change, and transient behavior Develop and integrate multi‑physics simulations coupling thermal, fluid, structural, and thermomechanical responses Create advanced computational cooling strategies for high‑heat‑flux electronics using microchannels, jet impingement, passive spreaders, heterogeneous integration, and phase‑change materials Conduct design‑space exploration using machine learning, AI‑assisted modeling, uncertainty quantification, and other advanced optimization techniques Perform parametric and topology optimization of thermal components such as heat sinks, cold plates, heat exchangers, and integrated flow channels Model novel systems for next‑generation engines, space propulsion, undersea propulsion, waste‑heat recovery, power generation, and cryogenic cooling Predict device reliability using thermomechanical modeling Support (as a secondary responsibility) experimental efforts such as thermal testing, two‑phase flow loops, additively manufactured coupon evaluation, interface characterization, and system demonstrations What You Will Learn In this role, you will gain exposure to a broad set of cutting‑edge technologies and research practices across RTX. You will learn how to apply advanced computational approaches—multi‑physics modeling, machine learning, complex optimization—to real system‑level challenges. You will collaborate with experts in propulsion, microelectronics, power electronics, radar, avionics, sensors, and space systems, and you will gain experience shaping early‑stage research programs and contributing to externally funded initiatives. Qualifications You Must Have Minimum a Master’s degree Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical, or Nuclear Engineering and minimum 3 years experience or Ph.D. in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical, or Nuclear Engineering and no formal experience Minimum 1 year research experience in Heat Transfer or Thermodynamics Qualifications We Prefer Strong analytical modeling and programming skills General understanding of FEA and CFD methods Demonstrated experience publishing or presenting technical research Exceptional computational modeling capability in multi‑physics, multi‑phase, and interfacial phenomena Demonstrated ability to model complex geometry and highly coupled physical systems Ability to manage uncertainty, formulate problems from ill-defined needs, and identify when additional SME expertise is required Excellent communication skills and ability to foster strong technical collaborations Experience developing or supporting externally funded research programs Background in military operations analysis or wargaming (helpful for select project areas) Hands‑on experience with thermal/fluid experiments, two‑phase systems, additive‑manufactured test coupons, or cryogenic hardware What We Offer: Whether you’re just starting out on your career journey or are an experienced professional, we offer a robust total rewards package with compensation; healthcare, wellness, retirement and work/life benefits; career development and recognition programs. Some of the benefits we offer include parental (including paternal) leave, flexible work schedules, achievement awards, educational assistance and child/adult backup care. Learn More & Apply Now Please ensure the role type defined below is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role. This position is classified as: Hybrid: Employees who are working in Hybrid roles will work regularly both onsite and offsite. Ratio of time working onsite will be determined in partnership with your leader. If you live within a reasonable commute of an RTX site with other colleagues you interact with, your manager will discuss whether there is a degree of onsite presence associated with this role. Candidates will learn more about role type and current site status throughout the recruiting process. For onsite and hybrid roles, commuting to and from the assigned site is the employee’s personal responsibility. As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote. The salary range for this role i