The Chief Engineer – Thermal Management & HVAC is the principal technical leader responsible for driving the design, development, and integration of advanced thermal management and HVAC systems across vehicle platforms. This role leads the engineering teams to deliver innovative, efficient, and reliable climate control and thermal solutions that enhance vehicle performance, occupant comfort, and regulatory compliance. The Chief Engineer works closely with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and executives to align thermal system development with overall vehicle architecture and business goals.
Key Responsibilities:
Define and lead the technical roadmap for thermal management and HVAC system development, ensuring alignment with vehicle program requirements and corporate strategy.
Oversee the design and integration of cooling and heating systems, including HVAC units, refrigerant circuits, heat exchangers, battery thermal management, and controls.
Provide expert technical guidance and problem-solving to engineering teams, ensuring innovation, quality, and cost targets are met.
Lead validation, testing, and durability programs to verify system performance, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards.
Collaborate closely with powertrain, battery, controls, and vehicle integration teams to optimize system packaging and thermal performance.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives in thermal system design, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
Manage relationships with suppliers and technology partners to incorporate cutting-edge components and systems.
Mentor and develop engineering talent, fostering a culture of technical excellence and collaboration.
Represent thermal management and HVAC engineering in program leadership meetings and executive reviews.
Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies to guide strategic decisions.
Key Focus Areas:
Technical leadership in thermal management and HVAC system engineering
Innovation in vehicle climate control and thermal solutions
Cross-functional collaboration for system integration and optimization
Validation and testing to ensure durability, safety, and performance
Supplier and technology partnership management
Engineering team development and mentorship
Compliance with environmental and safety regulations
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field required
Advanced degree preferred
Experience:
12+ years of experience in automotive thermal management, HVAC, or related engineering roles
Proven expertise in leading technical teams and delivering complex vehicle systems
Strong background in thermal system design, controls, and integration
Technical Skills:
Deep knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, HVAC systems, and refrigerant technologies
Experience with system simulation, modeling, testing, and validation
Familiarity with vehicle packaging constraints and cross-disciplinary engineering
Understanding of regulatory standards related to refrigerants and emissions
Soft Skills:
Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities
Ability to influence and collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders
Strategic thinker with hands-on technical problem-solving skills