Thermal Systems Integration Engineer, HVAC

Ford • Palo Alto, CA

1d

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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).

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level