Thermodynamics engineer
A thermodynamics engineer specializes in the scientific principles that govern the relationship between heat and mechanical energy. These engineers apply their expertise across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, HVAC, and energy sectors, to design, test, and optimize systems that rely on thermodynamic principles. Their work is crucial in creating efficient engines, refrigeration systems, and thermal management solutions. To enter this field, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline such as mechanical or aerospace engineering, with further education often recommended for advanced roles.
In terms of employment outlook, the demand for aerospace engineers, a primary area for thermodynamics engineers, is projected to grow by around 6% from 2022 to 2032, reflecting a steady interest in technological advancements and green energy solutions. Thermodynamics engineers may also find opportunities in related disciplines such as civil, electrical, and industrial engineering. Their ability to adapt to emerging technologies and trends is vital for career advancement, including obtaining professional certifications to enhance credibility within the industry. With the ongoing push for environmentally friendly technologies, the future of thermodynamics engineering seems promising, as engineers work towards developing sustainable solutions across various sectors.
Thermodynamics engineer
Earnings (Yearly Median): $126,880 (Aerospace engineers) (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022)
Employment and Outlook: 6% (Faster than average) (Aerospace engineers) (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022–32)
O*NET-SOC Code: 17-2011.00
Related Career Clusters: Manufacturing; Health Science; Architecture & Construction; Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
Scope of Work
Thermodynamics is a scientific discipline that deals with the relationship between heat and mechanical energy. Thermodynamics engineers apply their knowledge of the properties of heat transfer, distribution, and conversion to a vast array of industrial pursuits. Automobiles, airplanes, refrigerators, air conditioning systems, and automated production lines—all utilize thermodynamics at one point or another during manufacturing, installation, and use.
As with most scientific fields, thermodynamics is in a state of constant change. Many engineers work in research positions, developing new technologies for the military and green technology marketplace while contributing to the academic exploration of thermodynamics by writing papers and collaborating on studies.
Most thermodynamics engineers work in the aerospace industry, designing and testing aircraft and spacecraft components. The principles of thermodynamics, however, can be applied to nearly every mechanical process. Internal combustion engines, for example, function effectively thanks to the laws of thermodynamics and their applications.
Education and Coursework
Students interested in pursuing thermodynamics should establish a strong foundation in mathematics—specifically algebra and trigonometry—during high school. Advanced placement courses in physics, chemistry, calculus, and biology are available and provide students with a basis for college-level study. Students should also engage in extracurricular activities and clubs involving chemistry.
Entry-level thermodynamics positions require a bachelor’s degree in chemical, mechanical, environmental, civil, or aerospace engineering. Colleges and universities do not generally offer undergraduate degrees in thermodynamics engineering. However, because thermodynamics is a set of scientific principles rather than a stand-alone discipline, curricula of many courses of scientific study are likely to spend time on the laws and potential applications of thermodynamics. An advanced degree in a relevant field is highly recommended, and many thermodynamics engineers enter doctoral programs after working in the field for several years.
Career Enhancement and Training
Registration as a professional engineer is required for most engineering positions. Thermodynamics engineers need certification, given the frequency with which their work overlaps with the military and mass transportation sectors. In the US, a bachelor’s degree from an engineering program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology must take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. Following the completion of the exam, a prospective engineer must acquire four years of professional experience under the supervision of a certified engineer. Upon completing this period, one may take the Professional Engineering exam to become a registered professional engineer.
Thermodynamics engineers should continually monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to remain competitive in their field. A thermodynamics engineer working in aerospace, for example, can become a member of SAE International or another professional aerospace organization to receive publications informing them of developments in the field. Membership in a trade group will also provide engineers with the opportunity to attend workshops and seminars to build their professional network and keep their knowledge current.
Daily Tasks and Technology
The principles of thermodynamics play a part in nearly every scientific discipline. Thermodynamics engineers, therefore, perform a wide variety of tasks over a broad array of fields. For example, thermodynamics engineers are employed in automobile engine manufacturing, power plant systems management, HVAC and refrigeration, geothermal energy, and the design and building of structures such as skyscrapers and bridges.
The aerospace industry, however, is one of the biggest employers of thermodynamics engineers. Their skills are utilized throughout the design, manufacture, and testing of airplane and spacecraft components. In aerospace work, thermodynamics engineers are tasked with drafting conceptual designs of aerospace products, overseeing certain aspects of the manufacturing process, and testing the finished product. Interdepartmental communication and cross-discipline research and collaboration are frequent components of the thermodynamics engineer’s job.
Airplane and spacecraft parts are required to endure exceptional amounts of stress. Thermodynamics engineers use computer-assisted drafting and other design software to develop digital models to predict environmental effects on craft components. They also perform the physical tests necessary to ensure the quality and structural integrity of aerospace products.
Earnings and Employment Outlook
Specific salary information for thermodynamics engineers is unavailable due to the wide range of fields in which they are employed. However, earnings statistics for the top fields that utilize thermodynamics are available. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, aerospace engineers can expect a median annual pay of approximately $126,880 per year based on 2022 data.
Mechanical engineering—a career that requires extensive knowledge of the intricacies and application of thermodynamic principles—paid a median annual wage of $96,310 in 2022, according to the BLS. Mechanical engineers use thermodynamics in the processing of materials, the automation and control of manufacturing systems, and the design and development of machinery.
According to the BLS, employment of aerospace engineers is expected to grow 6 percent between 2022 and 2032. This rate is approximately average for all the occupations tracked by the BLS. While engineers will be in demand for military sector jobs developing more environmentally efficient aircraft, a general slump in manufacturing will negatively contribute to aerospace employment growth. At the same time, the impact of globalization on space exploration will also play a role in broadening the market's potential. A 2017 Aviation Week article found that partially due to the convergence of the technology and mechanical skills that engineers require, traditional jobs in engineering are changing. The growth of space exploration funded by private industry will also impact jobs.
Employment of mechanical engineers is expected to grow at an average rate of 10 percent between 2022 and 2032, according to the BLS. Demand for mechanical engineers will remain relatively constant in industries developing the next generation of laborsaving and green machinery Still, the overall decline in manufacturing production will harm the employment of mechanical engineers.
Related Occupations
• Aerospace Stress Engineer: Aerospace stress engineers study the effects of environmental stress on aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft, looking for ways to mitigate its negative impact.
• Civil Engineer:Civil engineers plan, design, and oversee the construction and maintenance of such structures and facilities as roads, railroads, bridges, dams, power plants, and water and sewage systems.
• Electrical Engineer:Electrical engineers research, design, and develop electrical equipment, components, and systems for use in any number of applications.
• Marine Engineer: Marine engineers design, develop, and install ship machinery and equipment, including propulsion and power supply systems.
• Industrial Engineer:Industrial engineers develop, test, and evaluate systems for managing production processes.
Future Applications
The US Department of Labor’s Occupational Information Network (O*NET) lists aerospace engineering as a “green enhanced skills occupation,” meaning the aerospace industry is undergoing significant change due to green technology and institutional awareness of environmental impact. This environmental focus is not confined to aerospace, however. Many other industries that employ thermodynamics engineers are also shifting toward greener practices and technology.The mass transportation industry, in particular, is developing products and manufacturing methods that reduce pollution and increase efficiency. Propulsion systems that use alternative energy sources, such as solar and electric power, will likely replace fossil fuel-burning engines as resources are depleted and the push to end dependence on oil becomes stronger. Thermodynamics engineers will be in demand to develop the machinery required to manage and utilize such alternative energy sources.Bibliography
"Aerospace Engineers." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 6 Sept. 2023, www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/aerospace-engineers.htm. Accessed 28 Sept. 2023.
Anesimo, Joseph C., and Carole Rickard Hedden. "Workforce: How A&D Stacks Up Against Silicon Valley." Aviation Week, 14 Sept. 2017, www.aviationweek.com/workforce-2017/workforce-how-ad-stacks-against-silicon-valley. Accessed 28 Sept. 2023.
"Summary Report for: 17-2011.00-Aerospace Engineers." O*Net OnLine, 29 Aug. 2023, www.onetonline.org/link/summary/17-2011.00. Accessed 28 Sept. 2023.