The Senior HVAC Testing Lab Supervisor leads all operations within the HVAC testing laboratory, ensuring technical excellence, safety, and efficiency in the validation of automotive climate systems and components. This role is responsible for overseeing test execution, developing lab capabilities, managing personnel, and interfacing with cross-functional teams to support product development for ICE, HEV, and EV platforms. The senior supervisor plays a key role in ensuring that thermal systems meet performance, durability, and regulatory standards through robust testing and analysis.
Key Responsibilities:
Direct the planning, execution, and oversight of comprehensive HVAC test programs including airflow, thermal performance, acoustic, and durability testing.
Lead and mentor a team of lab technicians and engineers; assign responsibilities, review work quality, and ensure development of lab talent.
Ensure full compliance with safety protocols, quality standards, and industry regulations (SAE, ISO, internal specs).
Develop and implement advanced test procedures and automation strategies to increase accuracy, repeatability, and lab throughput.
Oversee maintenance, calibration, and continuous improvement of test infrastructure, including environmental chambers, airflow benches, and DAQ systems.
Collaborate closely with HVAC engineering, product validation, and quality teams to define test requirements and interpret test results.
Manage lab scheduling, budget planning, consumables inventory, and facility upgrades to support new product programs.
Drive standardization, documentation, and digitalization of lab processes and reporting systems.
Key Focus Areas:
Strategic leadership of HVAC test lab operations
Supervision of personnel, lab planning, and execution
HVAC system and component performance, NVH, and environmental testing
Safety, compliance, and quality assurance in lab workflows
Lab equipment maintenance, upgrade, and automation
Cross-functional collaboration and technical reporting
Process innovation and team mentorship
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, HVAC Technology, or related field required
Experience:
7+ years in HVAC system/component testing with at least 3 years in a lab supervisory or team leadership role
Technical Skills:
Deep knowledge of automotive HVAC systems, airflow measurement, and refrigerant cycle testing
Proficiency in advanced DAQ systems (NI LabVIEW, Dewesoft, CAN tools) and test automation platforms
Understanding of industry standards (SAE J2765, ISO 5151) and regulatory compliance for thermal systems
Soft Skills:
Strong leadership, planning, and team development abilities
Excellent analytical, documentation, and troubleshooting skills
Effective communication and collaboration across engineering disciplines