The Director of Thermal Energy Recovery Systems (TERS) leads the strategy, development, and deployment of technologies that capture and repurpose waste heat to improve system efficiency and sustainability. This executive-level role is responsible for advancing thermal recovery solutions across internal combustion engines, hybrid-electric platforms, industrial processes, or aerospace propulsion systems. The director oversees multidisciplinary teams driving R&D in thermoelectric generation, turbo compounding, Organic Rankine Cycles (ORC), and exhaust heat recovery systems. This position plays a critical role in reducing energy losses, emissions, and operating costs while supporting net-zero and energy efficiency targets.
Define the long-term roadmap for thermal energy recovery systems across vehicle, aircraft, or industrial platforms.
Align TERS strategy with corporate goals for energy efficiency, CO₂ reduction, and thermal management optimization.
Monitor emerging technologies, regulations, and market trends to shape investment priorities and innovation focus.
Lead R&D and product development for thermal recovery technologies including:
Waste Heat Recovery (WHR)
Thermoelectric Generators (TEG)
Exhaust Heat Recovery Units (EHRU)
Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) systems
Turbo-compounding and heat-to-power conversion
Direct simulation, design, and testing efforts across mechanical, thermal, and controls domains.
Ensure system integration with propulsion systems, aftertreatment, and hybrid energy architectures.
Oversee execution of advanced engineering programs from concept through production or deployment.
Lead technical reviews, milestone planning, and risk management for TERS projects.
Ensure designs meet system-level KPIs for energy recovery efficiency, reliability, cost, and manufacturability.
Build and lead high-performance teams of thermal engineers, system architects, and control specialists.
Develop internal technical capabilities in heat exchanger design, thermofluid modeling, and thermal cycle optimization.
Mentor engineers and foster cross-functional collaboration with propulsion, electrification, and sustainability groups.
Collaborate with OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, research institutions, and government agencies on joint development programs.
Represent the company in industry consortiums focused on energy recovery and clean propulsion innovation.
Advanced thermal recovery systems (ORC, TEG, EHRU, turbo-compounding)
Waste heat conversion to electrical or mechanical energy
System-level energy efficiency optimization
Integration with engines, hybrid systems, and thermal management loops
Cross-functional R&D and technology incubation
Energy policy alignment and decarbonization support
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Sciences, or related field required
Master’s or PhD in Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, or Energy Systems preferred
PE License or Chartered Engineer status is a plus
Certification in energy systems modeling, Six Sigma, or advanced program management beneficial
12+ years in thermal systems engineering, energy recovery, or powertrain efficiency roles
5+ years in a technical leadership or director-level role
Experience developing WHR or ORC systems in automotive, aerospace, or industrial sectors
Proficiency in thermal system modeling tools (GT-Suite, Modelica, CFD, Aspen)
Deep understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat exchanger design
Knowledge of controls for thermal cycles and hybrid integration strategies
Strategic thinker with strong project execution skills
Proven ability to lead cross-functional engineering teams and influence senior stakeholders
Excellent communication and presentation skills with technical and executive audiences