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TL - Sustainable Fuels & Decarbonization

Ford Motor Company United States Added on Aug 13, 2026
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This technical leadership position at Ford focuses on steering the research and development of technical strategies for fuel science and energy infrastructure. You will be the primary authority on how energy carriers interact with future vehicle propulsion systems, ensuring the transition to low-carbon mobility is backed by rigorous scientific data.

The role is essential for achieving true decarbonization across the transport sector. By leading comprehensive life-cycle assessments from cradle-to-grave, you ensure that sustainability claims are scientifically robust and compliant with global regulations. You will turn complex energy science into actionable technology strategies that guide the future of iconic automotive icons.

This suits someone who is a seasoned technical expert with a deep background in chemical engineering and a passion for navigating the evolving landscape of global fuel standards and carbon-accounting regulations.

Job FAQs

What are the main missions and responsibilities of this role?

The primary mission involves leading the Research and Advanced Engineering team to develop strategies for energy and fuel science. You will be responsible for overseeing technical research into renewable fuels like hydrogen and e-fuels to determine their impact on performance and durability. Additionally, you will own the cradle-to-grave LCA process for vehicles and battery supply chains. This ensures all corporate sustainability claims are scientifically defensible and aligned with regulatory shifts like EU RED III and CARB standards.

Key learning opportunities for this job

In this role, you will gain deep exposure to the cutting edge of alternative energy infrastructure, including the production and storage of green hydrogen. Working within a global manufacturer provides a unique vantage point on industrial decarbonization at scale. You will also refine your expertise in techno-economic modeling using sophisticated industry tools. Mentorship is central, as you manage high-level technical teams and collaborate with national laboratories and academic consortia.

How does the ideal candidate look like (experience, skills)?

The ideal candidate holds a Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering and brings extensive experience in automotive fuels or industrial sustainability. You must possess a high degree of technical literacy regarding fuel properties. Technical proficiency in LCA methodology and software like SimaPro or GaBi is essential. Beyond the science, you should be a strong communicator capable of translating complex data into clear recommendations for executive audiences.

Advice to stand out and make a successful application

To stand out, emphasize your specific experience with carbon-accounting regulations and low-carbon fuel standards. Highlighting any published research regarding e-fuels or hydrogen infrastructure will demonstrate your technical authority. Ensure your application showcases your ability to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial strategy. Demonstrating that you understand the economic side of sustainability, such as carbon abatement costs, will align well with strategic goals.

What aspects of the company's sustainability is this role likely to focus on?

The role focuses intensely on the decarbonization of on-road transportation. This includes evaluating the environmental footprint of the entire vehicle lifecycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life recycling. You will also be a key player in the shift toward renewable energy carriers. Your work provides the data-driven evidence needed to move away from fossil fuels toward sustainable liquid and gaseous alternatives.

What are the main challenges someone in this role might face?

One of the main challenges is the rapidly shifting regulatory landscape across different global markets. Balancing technical requirements while maintaining a cohesive global strategy for propulsion can be highly complex. Additionally, you may face challenges in techno-economic viability, where you must justify the costs of new technologies against manufacturing constraints. Moving from research to industrial strategy requires navigating diverse internal priorities.

How could a typical day look like for someone in this position?

A typical day might begin with reviewing LCA models with your research team to ensure data integrity for regulatory filings. You might then transition to a meeting with Purchasing to discuss the viability of hydrogen supply chains. Afternoons are often spent in technical consortia meetings with government agencies to stay ahead of energy trends. You will likely end your day drafting a strategic brief for leadership that translates technical findings into risk assessments.

What are the opportunities for professional growth and development in this role?

This position offers significant visibility as a Technical Leader within the Research and Engineering division. Success can lead to senior executive positions within sustainability, engineering, or corporate strategy departments. You will have the opportunity to represent the company on a global stage at industry conferences and government-level partnerships. The role provides a platform to become a recognized expert in sustainable energy systems.

The main stakeholders you might be interacting with

You will interact extensively with internal engineering and sustainability teams to integrate fuel science into design. You will also collaborate with Purchasing to ensure technical strategies are practically and economically feasible. Externally, your network will include government agencies like the EPA, national laboratories, and academic institutions. You will also engage with industry representatives to influence the standards governing the next generation of transportation.

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