R&D Engineer

Fuze HR Solutions; Barrie; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Barrie, Ontario, seeks a motivated R&D Engineer to develop next-generation heat pump systems using CO₂ refrigerant. The role involves design, laboratory testing, and optimization, requiring expertise in thermodynamics and refrigeration technology. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering with 3–7 years of experience in HVAC development. Competitive compensation and career growth opportunities are offered in a dynamic R&D environment.

Benefits

Opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable HVAC technology

Career growth within a dynamic R&D environment

Competitive compensation and benefits package

Qualifications

• 3–7 years of hands-on experience in refrigeration or HVAC development.
• Demonstrated experience with CO₂ refrigerant systems.
• Knowledge of standards affecting transcritical CO₂ systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and optimization of refrigeration circuits.
• Build and evaluate prototypes in the R&D lab.
• Explore new technologies and support intellectual property development.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Refrigeration technology

Mechanical system integration

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Coolprops

Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated R&D Engineer to join our engineering team in the development of next-generation heat pump systems utilizing CO₂ (R-744) refrigerant. This role will involve hands‑on laboratory testing, system design, prototyping, and performance optimization. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in thermodynamics, refrigeration technology, and mechanical system integration, with a passion for advancing sustainable HVAC solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Development
  • Lead design and optimization of refrigeration circuits for heat pump systems using CO₂ refrigerant (subcritical and transcritical cycles).
  • Perform thermodynamic calculations, component sizing, and system modeling.
  • Develop P&IDs, technical drawings, and engineering documentation.
• Testing & Prototyping
  • Build and evaluate prototypes in the R&D lab.
  • Develop and execute test plans for performance, reliability, and safety validation.
  • Conduct troubleshooting and root cause analysis on prototype units.
• Innovation & Research
  • Explore new technologies, heat exchanger designs, and system controls.
  • Support intellectual property development (patents, new concepts).
  • Stay current with regulations (CSA B52, ASHRAE 15, UL 60335-2-40) as it relates to CO₂. Follow trends of emerging technologies in CO₂ refrigeration and leading international standards (F-Gas, PED, ISO/EN)
• Collaboration
  • Work closely with suppliers for component evaluation and adaptation.
  • Support cross‑functional teams (manufacturing, controls, quality, service).
  • Provide technical expertise during product industrialization.

Qualifications

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, or related discipline with a focus on thermodynamics / refrigeration.
• Experience:
  • 3–7 years of hands‑on experience in refrigeration or HVAC development.
  • Demonstrated experience with CO₂ refrigerant systems strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency in system modeling and simulation tools such as Coolprops.
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong understanding of refrigeration cycles, compressors, heat exchangers, and expansion devices.
  • Hands‑on lab testing, data acquisition, and instrumentation.
  • Knowledge of standards such as CSA B52, ASHRAE 15, ASME Section VIII, and UL 60335-2-40 as they relate to transcritical CO₂ systems.
• Soft Skills:
  • Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in cross‑functional teams.
  • Excellent communication skills for reporting and presenting technical findings.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable HVAC technology.
• Hands‑on involvement in prototype development and testing.
• Career growth within a dynamic and innovative R&D environment.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.