Thermal Modeling Engineer

About Rondo Energy

Rondo Energy's mission is to eliminate 15% of global CO2 emissions in 15 years.

To accomplish this mission, Rondo is deploying low-cost, zero-carbon Rondo Heat Batteries to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy and to significantly decarbonize industrial processes that are commonly thought of as "difficult-to-decarbonize". Our Heat Batteries charge from intermittent renewables to provide high temperature, continuous heat for customers safely, reliably, at an unprecedented 98% efficiency - and at a cost point that is lower than any other method.

We are looking for a highly motivated and detail-oriented student to support our engineering team on the development and thermal analysis of Rondo Heat Battery (RHB) systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computational fluid dynamics (CFD), heat transfer, and thermodynamics, along with proficiency in computer programming languages.  

What You Will Do (key responsibilities for this role include but are not limited to): 

• Collaborate with the engineering team to understand project requirements and objectives
• Develop and implement thermal models using CFD simulations including steady-state and transient heat transfer and fluid flow to analyze various system components
• Conduct comprehensive performance analyses to optimize thermal performance, efficiency, and reliability of existing and new products
• Build 3D CAD models of RHB components using commercial CAD software packages
• Assist in the validation of models through comparison with experimental data and field measurements
• Generate detailed documentation of simulation results for internal and external stakeholders
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to integrate thermal modeling insights into the overall product design process
• Contribute to the development and improvement of in-house tools for thermal analysis

What You Will Bring: 

• Bachelor’s, master’s or Ph.D. student of mechanical engineering, or a related field  
• Strong knowledge of heat transfer, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and CFD 
• Fluency in SOLIDWORKS is a plus
• Experience with CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL, or OpenFOAM
• Solid analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail 
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills. 
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively

Bonus Points!  

• Familiarity with programming languages for scripting and data analysis (Python, C/C++, MATLAB). 
• Knowledge of thermal management systems in energy industry. 
• Previous internship or project experience in thermal modeling. 

The estimated pay range for this role is $35 - $45/hr. This role necessitates being on-site at our Alameda HQ most days, with some opportunity to travel to project sites. Start date can be somewhat flexible; we are targeting 8-10 weeks duration for this internship.

Rondo Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive workplace where contributions are valued and celebrated, and our employees thrive by being themselves and are inspired to do their best work. We seek applicants of all backgrounds and identities, across race, color, ethnicity, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or parental status, or disability. Applicants will not be discriminated against based on these or other protected categories or social identities.

Rondo is committed to the full inclusion of all applicants. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please let our recruiting team know.

We proactively work to design hiring processes that promote equity and inclusion while mitigating bias.

Note to Recruitment Agencies: Rondo does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Furthermore, Rondo Energy does not pay placement fees for candidates submitted by any agency other than its approved partners.