Thermal Systems Integration Engineer, HVAC

Posted Yesterday
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Palo Alto, CA, USA
Hybrid
Mid level
Automotive
The Role
Own the architecture and integration of vehicle thermal systems, including HVAC and powertrain thermal controls. Define development roadmaps, hardware interfaces, diagnostics, and software requirements. Lead cross-functional integration with controls, powertrain, and infotainment teams. Plan verification and validation, debug embedded software using bench and vehicle assets, review C/C++ code, and approve software releases. Apply automotive communication protocols, mechatronic principles, Agile workflows, and functional safety practices.
Summary Generated by Built In

We made history and now we work to transform the future – for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.

Ford’s Electric Vehicles, Digital and Design (EVDD) team is charged with delivering the company’s vision of a fully electric transportation future. EVDD is customer-obsessed, entrepreneurial, and data-driven and is dedicated to delivering industry-leading customer experience for electric vehicle buyers and owners. You’ll join an agile team of doers pioneering our EV future by working collaboratively, staying focused on only what matters, and delivering excellence day in and day out. Join us to make positive change by helping build a better world where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams.

Responsibilities

What you'll do...
Domain Ownership & Architecture:
 

  • Serve as a technical anchor for the Thermal Subsystem (HVAC & Powertrain Thermal), bridging mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines.
  • Define and drive the development roadmap for application logic, component controls, and diagnostics.
  • Orchestrate the development workflow (Sprint planning, JIRA), ensuring technical risks are identified and eliminated early.

Device & Application Integration:
 

  • Lead the selection and integration of new hardware, authoring precise interface requirements for suppliers and internal controls teams.
  • Collaborate with control algorithm engineers to optimize system performance and efficiency.
  • Negotiate interfaces and behaviors with cross-functional teams (e.g., Infotainment, Powertrain) to ensure a seamless customer experience.
     

Firmware Verification & Validation:

  • Design and execute comprehensive pre-merge verification plans to ensure software robustness.
  • Conduct hands-on validation using bench setups and vehicle assets, utilizing advanced debugging tools to root-cause complex integration issues.
  • Review code (C/C++) and sign off on software releases, maintaining a high standard for code quality and system safety.
     
Qualifications

You'll have...

  • Bachelor's or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
  • 3+ years of experience in embedded systems, firmware integration, or systems engineering.
  • Strong understanding of mechatronic fundamentals (sensors, actuators, motors) and how they interact with embedded software.
  • Proven debugging and diagnostic skills in electrical, mechanical, and software domains.
  • Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded targets.
  • Experience with automotive communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet).

Even better, you may have...

  • Master’s degree in a relevant engineering field.
  • Experience with Agile/Scrum methodologies and workflow management (JIRA, Confluence).
  • Proficiency with vector tools (CANalyzer, CANape) or similar calibration/debugging tools.
  • Scripting experience for data analysis or test automation (Python, MATLAB).
  • Familiarity with functional safety standards (ISO 26262) and risk assessment (FMEA/HARA).
  • Knowledge of thermal dynamics, fluid mechanics, or HVAC principles.
     

#UEV

#LI-SL1

Skills Required

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
  • 3+ years of experience in embedded systems, firmware integration, or systems engineering
  • Strong understanding of mechatronic fundamentals, including sensors, actuators, and motors
  • Proven debugging and diagnostic skills across electrical, mechanical, and software domains
  • Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded targets
  • Experience with automotive communication protocols including CAN, LIN, and Ethernet
  • Master's degree in a relevant engineering field
  • Experience with Agile/Scrum methodologies and JIRA or Confluence
  • Proficiency with Vector tools such as CANalyzer or CANape, or similar calibration and debugging tools
  • Scripting experience for data analysis or test automation using Python or MATLAB
  • Familiarity with ISO 26262 and risk assessment methods including FMEA/HARA
  • Knowledge of thermal dynamics, fluid mechanics, or HVAC principles

Ford Motor Company Compensation & Benefits Highlights

  • Healthcare Strength — Eligible employees can access medical, dental, and prescription coverage starting on the first day, with some zero-cost plan options and free mental health support. Benefits materials highlight comprehensive healthcare as a core pillar.
  • Retirement Support — Employees can enroll in a 401(k)-style plan from day one, and some salaried plans include a company match of $0.90 per dollar on the first 5% contributed. Official summaries also describe financial-planning support.
  • Parental & Family Support — The package includes paid parental leave, fertility, surrogacy, and adoption benefits, plus a ramp-up program for new parents returning to work. Flexible family-care days and other time-off options support caregiving needs.

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The Company
HQ: Dearborn, MI
175,633 Employees
Year Founded: 1903

What We Do

Ford is a global company with shared ideals and a deep sense of family. From our earliest days as a pioneer of modern transportation, we have sought to make the world a better place – one that benefits lives, communities and the planet. We are here to provide the means for every person to move and pursue their dreams, serving as a bridge between personal freedom and the future of mobility. In that pursuit, our 186,000 employees around the world help to set the pace of innovation every day.

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