The Director of Thermal Systems is a strategic engineering leader responsible for overseeing the design, development, and integration of thermal management systems across internal combustion engine (ICE), electric vehicle (EV), and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) platforms. This role leads multi-disciplinary teams to deliver innovative, efficient, and reliable cooling and heating solutions for powertrain components, battery systems, and vehicle cabins. The director drives technical excellence, sustainability, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure thermal systems meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
Define and execute the thermal systems engineering strategy for ICE, EV, and HEV platforms, aligning with corporate goals and market demands.
Lead the design and integration of cooling and heating systems including radiators, intercoolers, battery thermal management, heat exchangers, HVAC integration, and refrigerant systems.
Manage engineering teams specializing in fluid dynamics, heat transfer, controls, and system integration to deliver best-in-class thermal solutions.
Oversee thermal system validation, durability testing, and performance optimization throughout development cycles.
Collaborate with powertrain, battery, controls, and vehicle integration teams to ensure seamless thermal management system packaging and functionality.
Drive innovation to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance vehicle range and reliability.
Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and industry regulations related to thermal systems and refrigerants.
Partner with suppliers and manufacturing to optimize cost, quality, and supply chain resilience for thermal components.
Manage program budgets, resource allocation, and timelines to achieve project milestones.
Mentor engineering leadership and foster a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
Represent thermal systems engineering in executive-level meetings, reporting on program status, risks, and strategic opportunities.
Key Focus Areas:
Strategic leadership in thermal system development for ICE, EV, and HEV vehicles
Multidisciplinary team management and cross-functional collaboration
Cooling and heating system design and integration
Battery and powertrain thermal management
Energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and sustainability initiatives
Regulatory compliance and refrigerant management
Supplier partnership and cost optimization
Program management and engineering talent development
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field required
Master’s degree or MBA preferred
Experience:
12+ years of experience in automotive thermal systems engineering, including ICE, EV, and HEV platforms
5+ years in leadership roles managing complex thermal system programs and multidisciplinary teams
Proven track record of delivering innovative and reliable thermal management solutions
Technical Skills:
Expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and system controls
Experience with thermal system simulation, modeling, testing, and validation
Strong knowledge of battery cooling/heating, HVAC systems, refrigerants, and powertrain cooling
Familiarity with automotive packaging, NVH considerations, and regulatory standards
Soft Skills:
Executive leadership and strategic planning capabilities
Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
Strong problem-solving and decision-making in complex engineering environments
Ability to inspire and develop high-performing engineering teams