Principal Program Manager – Ductless Advanced Systems

GE Appliances, a Haier company•Louisville, KY

About The Position

At GE Appliances, a Haier company, we come together to make “good things, for life.” As the fastest-growing appliance company in the U.S., we’re powered by creators, thinkers and makers who believe that anything is possible and that there’s always a better way. We believe in the power of our people and in giving them the freedom to explore, discover and build good things, together. The GE Appliances philosophy, backed by three simple commitments defines the way we work, invent, create, do business, and serve our communities: we come together, we always look for a better way, and we create possibilities. Interested in joining us on our journey? We are seeking a technically strong, detail-oriented Principal Program Manager to lead the development and launch of advanced Duct-Free Systems (DFS), including Mini- and Multi-Split Air Conditioning platforms. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of duct-free technology by combining program management leadership with deep technical engagement in system validation, performance verification, and engineering design guidance. The ideal candidate will drive successful program execution while ensuring DFS systems under development meet all performance, safety, regulatory, and strategic business objectives.

Requirements

BS Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent technical degree.
Minimum 7+ years of relevant experience.
At least 2 years of project management experience.
Understanding of industry standards (UL, AHRI, DOE) and ability to develop consolidated test plans.
Strong problem-solving skills and a passion for learning.
Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional organization.
Experience in designing, building, and executing test plans, with the ability to present data and debate technical issues.
Experience working in a global environment.
Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
Willingness to travel to China, up to 10%.

Nice To Haves

5+ years of experience in product design and development.
Design experience with HVAC/Refrigeration systems, particularly duct-free or split systems.
Strong system-level engineering mindset with experience validating and verifying thermal, refrigerant, and control system performance.
Ability to evaluate multiple design options in parallel and use engineering logic and data to select the optimum system architecture.
Demonstrated leadership on complex design projects requiring cross-functional integration.

Responsibilities

Lead the launch of Hotpoint, Haier, and GE Appliances-branded Mini- and Multi-Split Air Conditioners and accessories.
Develop and manage detailed program schedules to ensure on-time production readiness and launch execution.
Create and implement comprehensive qualification plans to meet Marketing, Regulatory, Safety, and Quality requirements.
Estimate, track, and report program expenses to meet financial commitments.
Lead cross-functional alignment across engineering, Product Management, service, quality, and sourcing teams.
Guide development of FMEAs and lead structured risk assessments.
Provide technical program oversight for DFS systems under development, ensuring performance targets are clearly defined, validated, and verified.
Oversee system-level performance testing, including capacity, efficiency, reliability, acoustics, and environmental compliance.
Validate and verify product performance against AHRI, UL, DOE, and applicable building and energy conservation codes.
Develop consolidated test plans and ensure robust data-driven decision-making.
Provide design guidance to engineering teams and suppliers to close technical gaps, optimize system architecture, and ensure performance robustness.
Review and challenge technical trade-offs, ensuring design solutions meet both performance and cost targets.
Gain, participate, and apply expertise in DFS industry standards, rulemaking, specifications development, and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with suppliers and product service specialists to develop installation, operation, and maintenance documentation.
Drive root cause investigations and corrective actions for performance or reliability issues.