Thermal Systems Integration Engineer, HVAC

Ford; Palo Alto, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Ford Motor Company is seeking an experienced embedded systems engineer to anchor the thermal subsystem architecture and drive development of application logic, controls, and diagnostics. You will lead hardware selection and cross‑functional integration, collaborating with Infotainment and Powertrain teams to ensure a seamless customer experience.

Your role requires 3+ years in embedded systems, strong debugging skills, and proficiency in C/C++ for automotive targets, along with CAN/LIN/Ethernet

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in engineering or related field.
• 3+ years in embedded systems, firmware integration, or systems engineering.
• Strong mechatronics knowledge and interaction with embedded software.
• Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded targets and automotive protocols CAN/LIN/Ethernet.

Responsibilities

• Anchor thermal subsystem architecture and drive development roadmap for logic, controls, and diagnostics.
• Lead hardware selection, interface specs, and cross‑functional integration with Infotainment/Powertrain.
• Design pre-merge verification plans and validate with bench setups and vehicle assets.

Skills

Embedded systems

Firmware integration

Debugging & diagnostics

C/C++

Automotive protocols CAN/LIN/Ethernet

Cross-functional collaboration

JIRA/Agile workflow

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Master’s degree in engineering (advantage)

Tools

CANalyzer

CANape

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.
  

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