A thermal sensing system includes an electrical contact, a sensing element, and a position sensor. The electrical contact includes a shaft that defines a channel. The channel extends into the shaft from an opening along an outer surface of the shaft. The sensing element is disposed at least partially outside of the channel and is operably connected to the channel through the opening. The sensing element is movable relative to the electrical contact based on a temperature change within the channel. The position sensor is spaced apart from the electrical contact and the sensing element. The position sensor is configured to detect a position change of a portion of the sensing element outside of the channel responsive to the temperature change within the channel.