What You Will Do

Johnson Controls’ Data Center Thermal Technology Solutions group is seeking a Senior Modeling Engineer. As a member of the modeling team, you will develop and apply numerical models to simulate the end-to-end performance of data center cooling systems. You will play a key role on cross-functional teams responsible for creating comprehensive thermal solutions for data center applications.

Your primary focus will be simulating system performance and providing design and application guidance based on model results. As part of the advanced development team, you will also stay current on emerging technologies in the data center cooling space and evaluate innovations that may influence future product offerings.

We prefer to have this candidate based in our Glendale, WI, or York, PA, office; however, this can also be a remote opportunity for the right candidate!

How You Will Do It

• Develop numerical simulations of thermal components commonly used in data center applications.
• Integrate subsystems into complete thermal solutions, coordinating across cooling loops, controls, and heat-rejection equipment.
• Use simulation tools to predict chip-to-ambient performance of data center cooling systems.
• Apply system-level performance models to provide technical guidance to customers.
• Present project status, technical findings, and strategic recommendations across departments.
• Deliver presentations and/or write white papers communicating JCI’s technical perspective on emerging technologies and system architectures.
• Actively participate in industry groups such as ASHRAE and the Open Compute Project.

What You Will Need

Required

• Master’s or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3+ years of industry experience with thermal products or systems.
• Strong theoretical foundation in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with HVAC system design, refrigerant cycles, and component selection.
• Proficiency with numerical simulation tools for building and thermal applications (e.g., Modelica, MATLAB/Simulink, EES, EnergyPlus).
• Broad cross-domain knowledge spanning thermal, controls, and electrical systems—generalists with strong multidomain capability are highly valued.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365/Excel, including basic macros/VBA for data analysis and reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to execute cross-functional projects.

Preferred

• Python scripting and environment management (package installation, virtual environments, basic automation).
• Fundamentals of controls engineering (feedback loops, PID tuning, system response).
• Basic understanding of electrical systems (motor sizing, VFDs, power distribution).
• Experience with refrigeration system design and refrigerant properties.
• Familiarity with data center cooling architectures (direct liquid cooling, rear-door heat exchangers, CDUs).

Expertise in one or more thermal domains (CDUs, chillers, dry coolers, cold0plate systems).