Thermal Systems Integration Engineer, HVAC

Ford; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Ford's EVDD team in Palo Alto is seeking an embedded systems engineer to own the Thermal Subsystem responsibilities, bridging mechanical, electrical, and software domains. You will define the development roadmap for application logic, controls, and diagnostics, and work within an agile environment to accelerate hardware-software integration.

Must have 3+ years in embedded firmware, strong C/C++, and experience with CAN/LIN/Ethernet.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in engineering.
• 3+ years of embedded systems or firmware integration experience.
• Strong understanding of mechatronics and interaction with embedded software.
• Proven debugging and diagnostic skills spanning electrical, mechanical, and software.
• Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded targets.
• Experience with automotive communication protocols CAN, LIN, Ethernet.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive the development roadmap for application logic, controls and diagnostics.
• Bridge mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines in the Thermal Subsystem.
• Lead hardware selection and integration with suppliers and internal teams.
• Review code and sign off on firmware releases with safety considerations.

Skills

C/C++

Embedded systems

Diagnostics

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

CAN

LIN

Ethernet

JIRA

Confluence

Job description

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.

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.

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.