Position Title: Director of New Product Development – HVAC
Department/Group: Engineering
Reports To: V.P of Engineering
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Summary/Objective
First Co. is seeking a Director of New Product Development – HVAC to lead the design and execution of innovative residential and commercial HVAC solutions across our First Co. and AE Air brands. In this role, you will own the new product development process—from concept to launch—driving programs that deliver on time, on budget, and in alignment with our strategic growth objectives. You will play a pivotal role in shaping our technology roadmap, translating customer needs into market-ready products, and fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence within the engineering team.
Job Description
Key Responsibilities:
Team Leadership & Development
- Mentor and develop engineering talent, from early-career engineers to experienced professionals
- Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning
- Identify high-potential team members and accelerate their growth through challenging assignments and coaching
Collaboration & Execution
- Lead cross-functional program teams (Engineering, Sales, Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain) to deliver on schedule, scope, and budget
- Serve as the organizational point of contact for all new product development initiatives
- Champion process improvements to increase engineering productivity, quality, and speed to market
Product Development & Innovation
- Provide technical leadership in developing next-generation residential and light commercial HVAC products
- Lead product development programs from TRL 4 through TRL 6, ensuring readiness for full-scale commercialization
- Translate customer insights and market needs into actionable product strategies
- Align product roadmaps with business objectives and emerging industry trends
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field) required; advanced degree preferred
- Minimum 15 years of experience in HVAC product engineering and development
- At least 5 years of experience leading engineering teams
- Demonstrated success in delivering complex, high-impact HVAC products to market
- Strong knowledge of residential and light commercial HVAC systems, codes, and standards
- Expertise in Product Development Processes and Stage-Gate methodologies
- Excellent communication and leadership skills, with proven ability to influence across functions
Supervisory Responsibility YES ☒ NO ☐
Travel Required YES ☒ _5___% NO ☐