Product Technical Leader - HVACVerified as a real position

Who we’re looking for

• University degree in a technical field (Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics 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

What you’ll do

• 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.
• 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

About the position

Valeo is a tech global company, designing breakthrough solutions to reinvent the mobility. We are an automotive supplier partner to automakers and new mobility actors worldwide. Our vision? Invent a greener and more secured mobility, thanks to solutions focusing on intuitive driving and reducing CO2 emissions. We are leader on our businesses, and recognized as one of the largest global innovative companies. We are looking for a Product Technical Leader in our team focused on the development of the automotive HVAC and thermal systems in our R&D Center in Prague.

Benefits

• Work in a stable international company in a multinational team
• Work with cutting-edge technologies in Automotive
• Possibility to see the whole development process in one place - from an idea (customer requirement) to a product (e.g. automated parking ECU)
• 6 weeks of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours and home office possibility
• Variable remuneration - monthly and semester bonuses depending on team and company result
• Contribution to the pension insurance after the probation period, 5% from the gross salary
• Meal contribution and free time vouchers on Flexi Pass card
• Possibility of Multisport card
• Fitness room and external sports ground (football, basketball, volleyball) on site
• Mobility support for commuting, accommodation and moving services if you live over 20km away
• Company canteen offering a selection of international cuisine
• Easy access to work by Prague metro line A, car parking for all employees
• Personal development program through technical trainings and language courses
• Regular company team building events
• Outdoor relax zone with a barbecue space for team building