Thermal Root Cause Analysis Engineer

Job description

Job Summary

The Thermal Root Cause Analysis Engineer is responsible for leading investigative analysis and generating comprehensive root cause reports for Vertiv Thermal Management systems.

This role involves reviewing complex system data, performing on-site failure assessments, coordinating component testing, and collaborating with engineering, service quality, and suppliers to identify and resolve thermal system issues.

This role demands strong analytical thinking, excellent communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment, delivering actionable insights that drive product and process improvements.

Responsibilities:

• Develop comprehensive Root Cause Analysis (RCA) reports for Thermal Management systems, addressing component failures and system-level issues.


• Analyze all relevant failure data, including field service reports, alarm logs, monitoring system outputs, site configurations, and service history.


• Conduct on-site investigations, when needed, to support real-time failure analysis during field service repairs.


• Identify failed components based on symptom evaluation; define factory testing requirements and author test scripts for factory technicians.


• Review test outcomes, recommend further testing if necessary, and determine definitive root causes.


• Coordinate with suppliers’ engineering and quality teams to analyze component failures and implement corrective actions as needed.


• Recommend and utilize third-party labs when appropriate; provide guidance on test design and validation procedures.


• Apply structured problem-solving methodologies such as fishbone diagrams and 8D analysis to systematically identify root causes.


• Utilize spectroscopy tools, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), for material and component failure analysis.


• Collaborate with engineering teams to develop and validate simulation models that support failure analysis using platforms like MATLAB and Simulink.


• Prepare and deliver preliminary, interim, final, and follow-up reports outlining root causes, data findings, and corrective recommendations (site-specific, internal, and supplier-related).


• Participate in customer meetings or site visits to present findings and explain technical conclusions.


• Provide technical support and consultation to field engineers, thermal support teams, and cross-functional stakeholders.


• Track and analyze failure data to identify systemic issues and recurring trends; recommend design, manufacturing, or supplier-related improvements.


• Communicate regularly with Engineering, Quality, and Services teams on analysis outcomes, trends, and outstanding actions.


• Contribute to product performance reviews and participate in internal cross-functional meetings.


• Attend Vertiv product training to gain familiarity with both new and legacy Thermal Management products.


• Participate in supplier quality audits as directed.


• Occasional travel is required.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, or Electrical is required; a Master’s degree or Professional Engineer (PE) certification is preferred.


• 3+ years of industry experience, with at least 2 years in investigative analysis or root cause failure investigations.


• Strong understanding of HVAC systems, air handling units, and thermal management solutions; experience with data center cooling and liquid cooling technologies is a plus.


• Proficient in diagnostic methodologies including 8D, Fishbone (Ishikawa), FMEA, and other quality system processes.


• Solid working knowledge of reliability metrics such as MTBF, MTTR, and system availability.


• Hands-on experience with data analysis tools and test equipment, including oscilloscopes, power quality meters, and multi-channel data recorders.


• Strong analytical thinking, with the ability to interpret technical data and draw well-supported conclusions.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical report writing and customer-facing documentation.


• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, reactive environment.


• Proficient in Microsoft Office and other standard business and technical software platforms.


• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and interact at all organizational levels.


• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.


• Willingness to travel as needed and support field investigations, including occasional on-call availability.


• Comfortable working in a professional office setting and around electrical equipment while following PPE protocols.


• Successful experience working in collaborative team environments and managing dotted-line relationships.

Working Conditions:

• Reactive, fast paced, and high profile environment.


• Professional office environment.


• On-call availability


• Occasional travel, domestic and international, as required.


• Flexible schedule (Weekends, evenings, holidays)

The successful candidate will embrace Vertiv’s Core Principals & Behaviors to help execute our Strategic Priorities.  

OUR CORE PRINCIPALS:  Safety.  Integrity. Respect.  Teamwork.  Diversity & Inclusion.

OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

• Customer Focus


• Operational Excellence


• High-Performance Culture


• Innovation


• Financial Strength

OUR BEHAVIORS

• Own It


• Act With Urgency


• Foster a Customer-First Mindset


• Think Big and Execute


• Lead by Example


• Drive Continuous Improvement


• Learn and Seek Out Development

At Vertiv, we’re on a mission to empower the people that will power the future.

From a simple swipe to life-changing medicines, from push notifications to generative AI.

We design, manufacture, and service the products and solutions that keep the world connected.

 With $5 billion in sales, a strong customer base and global reach spanning nearly 70 countries, we are uniquely positioned to deliver greater value to our customers and create new opportunities for our people.