Feature/Function Owner - Climate Control

eTeam is seeking a Climate Engineer in Chicago, IL, responsible for designing automotive Climate Control Systems for Battery Electric Vehicles. Key tasks include optimizing refrigerant loops, developing HVAC strategies, conducting vehicle testing, and collaborating with teams to meet production milestones. Candidates should have 6-8 years of relevant experience and a degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering. Strong communication skills and a passion for the automotive industry are essential.
JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Description: Climate Engineer
Role Summary: The Climate Engineer will be responsible for the design and development of automotive Climate Control Systems that meet the evolving efficiency, range, and comfort targets for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs). This role will focus on performance in both extreme and moderate ambient conditions.

Key Responsibilities:
•Design and optimize the refrigerant loop, including compressor, TXV, and condenser, to maximize the coefficient of performance (COP) and minimize power consumption.
•Develop and validate HVAC airflow and zoning strategies to achieve optimal cabin comfort.
•Conduct vehicle testing and controls development to meet functional climate control system requirements.
•Identify architecture and control improvements to enhance comfort while reducing system energy demand.
•Create detailed test plans and project timelines, considering subsystem interdependencies and control logic.
•Lead vehicle-level climate system tests and refine thermal system performance.
•Correlate vehicle test data to simulation models and contribute to the development of cabin thermal performance modeling methodologies.
•Collaborate with cross-functional teams and lab groups to meet program milestones and ensure a successful production launch.
•Provide effective communication of project status and deliver comprehensive technical reports to DRE leadership.

Required Qualifications:
•Interest and/or experience in thermal system development, especially in areas such as powertrain/EV cooling, HVAC, or thermal protection.
•6–8 years of experience in climate control, powertrain cooling, or thermal systems development or research.
•Familiarity with DFMEAs (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and DVP&Rs (Design Verification Plans and Reports).
•Demonstrated interest and experience in the design, testing, and validation of thermal systems.
•Strong understanding of powertrain cooling and its interaction with HVAC and other subsystems.
•Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (BSME or BSEE).

Preferred Qualifications:
•Master’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (MSME or MSEE).
•Hands-on experience with vehicle-level testing in powertrain cooling, HVAC, or thermal systems.

Other Requirements:
Must have a passion for Powertrain, Vehicle Testing and the automotive industry
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office
Outstanding communication, interpersonal and problem solving skills
Able to work independently, but not afraid to ask for the help when needed
Must be comfortable working in a rapid-pace, interactive, team-orientated environment