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Automatic Transmission Development Engineer information

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$54.5K

$112.4K

$159K

How much do automatic transmission development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for automatic transmission development engineer in the United States is $112,436.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automatic transmission development engineer?

An Automatic Transmission Development Engineer is a specialized automotive engineer responsible for designing, developing, testing, and refining automatic transmission systems in vehicles. Their work involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve transmission performance, efficiency, and reliability. They use advanced simulation tools, conduct real-world testing, and analyze data to ensure the transmission meets safety and regulatory standards. These engineers play a key role in enhancing driving comfort and fuel economy in modern vehicles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automatic transmission development engineer?

To excel as an Automatic Transmission Development Engineer, you need a background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong problem-solving skills, and experience with transmission systems. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools (such as MATLAB/Simulink), and knowledge of automotive standards are typically required, along with relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Excellent teamwork, communication, and project management abilities help you collaborate effectively and adapt to complex engineering challenges. These skills and qualifications ensure the engineer can design, test, and optimize automatic transmissions that meet performance, efficiency, and reliability standards in a competitive automotive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by automatic transmission development engineers during the product testing phase?

Automatic Transmission Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring reliability under various driving conditions, meeting strict regulatory standards, and integrating new technologies like advanced driver-assistance systems. Testing requires close collaboration with software, hardware, and manufacturing teams to troubleshoot issues and optimize performance. Managing tight deadlines while maintaining high quality and safety standards is also a key aspect of the role.

What is the difference between Automatic Transmission Development Engineer vs Powertrain Engineer?

AspectAutomatic Transmission Development EngineerPowertrain Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentAutomotive R&D labs, manufacturing plants, design officesAutomotive R&D labs, manufacturing plants, design offices
Industry UsageDesign and develop automatic transmission systemsDesign and develop entire powertrain systems, including engines and transmissions
Comparison FocusSpecialized in automatic transmission components and control systemsBroader focus on overall vehicle powertrain performance

The Automatic Transmission Development Engineer focuses specifically on designing and developing automatic transmission systems, while the Powertrain Engineer has a broader role encompassing the entire vehicle powertrain, including engines and transmissions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but their scope and specialization differ.

What are popular job titles related to Automatic Transmission Development Engineer jobs?

For Automatic Transmission Development Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Automatic Transmission Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,436 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Development & Validation Engineer- Automatic Transmission, Driveline and/or Gear

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Detroit Engineered Products
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Detroit Engineered Productsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

  • Description:

    The Development & Validation Engineer for Automatic Transmission, Driveline and/or Gear Reducers is responsible for designing, developing, and validating components and systems. Work closely with other engineer groups interacting with the transmission, including - but not limited to – transmission & Driveline hardware, software, calibration, thermal management, engine engineering organizations. The D&V Test Engineer is also responsible for test execution to ensure functional objectives and durability goals are met. This includes, test planning, Bill-of-material development, test cell setup and debug, test schedule development, root cause analysis of test stoppages throughout the test and finally to lead the test article inspection and report following the end of each test.  The engineer will initiate root cause analysis and solution development process in the case of test failures are identified.

  • Requirements:

    100% ONSITE

    • B.S. Mechanical, Aero, Electrical or equivalent Engineering Degree
      • At least 8 years of engineering experience in Automatic Transmission/Driveline/Gear Reducer design, development, calibration or controls
      • Must have excellent communication and presentation skills as well as experience with basic PC software (e.g. MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Project)
      • Candidate must be highly motivated, self-directed, have the ability to manage multiple complex projects, and have a positive attitude.

      Preferred Qualifications:

      • Preferred candidates will hold a Master’s degree in Engineering and/or have experience in transmission design, development, and testing
      • Specific experience with software, calibration, transmission efficiency and/or thermal management is desired
      • An understanding of transmission operation and the interaction between gears, clutches, and electrohydraulic components is desired
      • Experience with transmission, driveline and/or gear reducer testing procedures, in vehicle or on dynamometer, and other related considerations are also highly valued