HVAC Value Optimization Engineer

About the Role

We are seeking a Vehicle Operations (VO) / Design Release Engineer (DRE) – HVAC & Cooling Systems to lead the integration, vehicle build execution, and validation of automotive thermal management systems. In this role, you will bridge the gap between product engineering and manufacturing operations. You will own the on-site physical implementation of thermal components including HVAC modules, coolant loops, heat exchangers, compressors, lines, and thermal valves working directly at assembly plants, prototype build centers, and supplier facilities during vehicle launches.

Key Responsibilities

• Vehicle Launch & Build Support: Represent the HVAC and Thermal systems team on the plant floor during prototype and pre-production vehicle builds (TT, PP, MP1/MP2). Troubleshoot physical packaging, routing, line fill, and assembly issues in real time.
• Component Release & Integration: Oversee the engineering release and cross-functional integration of HVAC units, refrigerant lines, coolant hoses, radiators, condensers, heat pumps, and electronic expansion valves into the vehicle architecture.
• Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis: Lead issue resolution (using 8D, 5-Why, or Fishbone methods) for build interference, fluid leaks, vacuum-fill failures, NVH concerns, and assembly process bottlenecks.
• Manufacturing & Supplier Alignment: Partner closely with plant operations, quality engineering, line operators, and Tier-1 thermal suppliers to optimize Design for Assembly (DFA) and resolve manufacturing feasibility issues.
• EOR/ECO Management: Author, submit, and execute Engineering Change Orders (ECOs/EORs) to address manufacturing non-conformances, containment actions, and design updates during vehicle launch phases.

Qualifications & Skill Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Thermal/Fluid Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum 3+ years of hands-on automotive engineering experience in HVAC, Powertrain Cooling, or Battery Thermal Management Systems (BTMS).
• Launch & VO Experience: Direct experience supporting assembly plant builds, prototype builds, or vehicle launches for thermal systems.
• System Knowledge: Deep understanding of refrigeration cycles, HVAC module assembly, coolant loop architecture, fast-connect fittings, vacuum evacuation/fluid filling processes, and thermal packaging.
• Travel Flexibility: Willingness and ability to travel up to 35% on short notice to support assembly plants, pilot plants, and supplier site visits during critical build phases.
• Engineering Tools: Proficiency in CAD/PLM systems (CATIA, Siemens NX, Teamcenter, or Enovia) for packaging checks, clearance analysis, and ECR execution.