Sr Thermal Engineer, Hardware (NetSec) at Palo Alto Networks Santa Clara, CA

Job Description We are seeking an experienced Thermal Engineer to support the development and optimization of thermal solutions for PAN (Product Area Network) products. In this role, you will collaborate directly with mechanical engineers to design, evaluate, and improve thermal systems, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and cost‑effectiveness across NPI (New Product Introduction) and sustaining programs. Responsibilities Support all PAN product development thermal effort in both NPI and Sustaining. Support ASIC team in determining thermal package performance prior to release for manufacture. Collaborate with mechanical engineers to co‑develop NPI product thermal solutions. Conduct early‑stage thermal feasibility studies and case studies to evaluate design viability and product environmental requirements. Create, present and maintain thermal simulation models throughout the product development from conceptual to FCS. Optimize both internal and external thermal design solutions to ensure high‑quality, low‑cost solutions. Attend regularly scheduled engineering meetings to review progress and updates. Co‑present thermal solutions and risks during system design reviews at each release. Support thermal profiling testing. Review and approve the final thermal reports prior to each mechanical release. Assist with sustaining thermal efforts when requested to ensure long‑term product performance. Support PAN NPI sustaining programs during early development phases, including tasks such as air temperature plots, junction/case temperatures, enclosure touch temperatures, and heat spreader/heat sink design guidelines. Provide practical recommendations on thermal interface materials, assembly mounting, and overall thermal solution performance. Qualifications Your Experience Deep knowledge of both active and passive thermal design solutions. Strong understanding of telecom 19" rack and desktop design solutions. Ability to work across functional teams, including hardware engineering, operations, manufacturing, and quality teams. Excellent understanding of ASIC package design. Communication Excellent cross‑functional communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate thermal concepts and collaborate with various stakeholders. Experience 3-7 years of experience in PAN product design, specializing in both passive and active cooling solutions. Experience with FlowTherm & Icepak modeling capabilities. Education PhD, MS, or BS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent military experience required. Additional Information You will be an integral part of our product development lifecycle, providing essential thermal solutions for both new product introductions and sustaining programs. This role requires flexibility and a proactive mindset, as you will be supporting multiple efforts simultaneously across various stages of development. Benefits Develop NPI hardware in a creative and innovative environment. Imagine new opportunities in areas that matter and will impact the world you live in. Be part of a high‑performing team of the world's best cybersecurity companies. Flex‑work arrangements to support you in working in the way that you work best. Compensation Disclosure The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and work location. For candidates who receive an offer at the posted level, the starting base salary (for non‑sales roles) or base salary + commission target (for sales/commissioned roles) is expected to be between $166,000 YR – $267,500 YR. The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus. A description of our employee benefits may be found here. EEO & Diversity Statement We’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with a disability. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability or special need, please contact us at View email address on click.appcast.io. Palo Alto Networks is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in our workplace, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. #J-18808-Ljbffr Payfuture Technologies