Product Technical Leader - Coolant Heater for HVAC

Product Technical Leader - Coolant Heater for HVAC

Valeo

Prague, Czech Republic

We are looking for a Product Technical Leader in our team focused on the development of the Coolant Heater for the automotive HVAC and thermal systems in our R&D Center in Prague. The Product Technical Leader (PTL) is responsible for the technical leadership of an automotive HVAC product throughout one specific project phase - from RFQ and nomination through development, testing, optimization, and industrialization. The PTL ensures robust technical solutions, cost control, and smooth cooperation between internal teams and the customer.

The role is focused on customer projects and requires strong technical orientation, customer communication, and coordination skills. The PTL works on one project at a time, while being part of a team managing multiple HVAC projects.

YOUR CHALLENGES?

Technical & Project Responsibility

• Lead the technical scope of an HVAC project from RFQ or nomination phase through development and industrialization
• Apply the Product Development Process (PDP) in line with CPM (CLEAN Project Management)
• Ensure robust product design aligned with technical, quality, timing, and cost targets
• Apply standardization rules and request de-standardization only when technically and economically justified
• Define, plan, and conduct all required design and technical reviews
• Ensure timely design reviews with cross-functional networks (Purchasing, Industrial, Manufacturing, Testing)
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards and customer-specific requirements

Testing, Validation & Optimization

• Oversee testing strategies, validation plans, and optimization activities
• Understand testing methods and validation approaches for HVAC components and systems
• Support root cause analysis and technical problem-solving

Customer Interface

• Represent the R&D organization toward the customer
• Act as the main technical contact for customer-related R&D topics
• Break down customer requirements and cascade them internally to relevant teams
• Build and maintain a strong, trust-based relationship with customers (German and English-speaking customers primarily)

Coordination & Team Collaboration

• Coordinate and technically guide Design Leaders, Product Engineers, and other R&D contributors
• Assign work packages and ensure clarity of responsibilities
• Ensure effective collaboration within the project team to keep the project moving forward
• Regularly align with the R&D Manager, Product Manager, and Discipline Managers regarding resources and priorities

Planning, Budget & Reporting

• Responsible for detailed technical planning, scheduling, and budgeting within own scope
• Monitor activities and spending to stay within the approved budget
• Contribute to identifying needs for resources, equipment, and investments
• Report project status, risks, and escalations to the Project Manager or R&D Manager when needed

LET'S TALK ABOUT YOU...

• University degree in a technical field (Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Thermodynamics, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or similar)
• Experience in automotive product development (automotive HVAC experience is an advantage)
• Knowledge of mechatronic systems and materials (plastics, aluminum); basic electronics knowledge is a plus
• Understanding of thermodynamics is an advantage
• Ability to read and understand technical drawings
• Familiarity with testing and validation of automotive components or systems
• Strong technical orientation with interest in a technical expert role
• Good communication skills and ability to work with customers and cross-functional teams
• Willingness to continuously learn and develop