In this paper, the design sensitivity formula for the control of the transient temperature distribution is developed using the direct differentiation method, and used for the optimal design of induction heating coil position. The temperature distribution is calculated using the heat source of the induced eddy current and heat diffusion equation. The physical property variations of the workpiece depending on the temperature are considered. The eddy current distribution and the temperature distribution are calculated with the 2D finite element procedure. The adjoint variable technique is employed in expressing the design sensitivity. The goal of the design is to have the desired distribution of the temperature on a specific region of the sensitivity. The goal of the design is to have the desired distribution of the temperature on a specific region sensitivity. The goal of the design is to have the desired distribution of the temperature on a specific region of the workpiece. The numerical example shows that the proposed design sensitivity analysis for the control of the transient temperature distribution is very useful and practical in the optimal design of induction heating coils.