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Diesel Engine Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... diesel backup generators. Powered by GraniteEcosystem™, our revolutionary software system ... Oversee the design, development, and optimization of internal combustion engines, considering ...

Senior Engineer - Design

Mossville, IL · On-site

$131.23K - $169.06K/yr

Perform structural simulation of diesel engine and fuel systems in support of research and ... Recommend design improvements/enhancements, and decisions may significantly impact product ...

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Diesel Engine Design information

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$14

$28

$38

How much do diesel engine design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for diesel engine design in the United States is $28.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Diesel Engine Design, and why are they important?

To thrive in Diesel Engine Design, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, and internal combustion engine principles, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or CATIA), simulation tools (like ANSYS), and knowledge of emission standards are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help designers collaborate effectively and innovate solutions. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating efficient, compliant, and reliable diesel engines that meet industry demands.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in diesel engine design, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in diesel engine design often encounter challenges such as meeting stringent emissions regulations, optimizing fuel efficiency, and integrating new technologies while maintaining reliability. Addressing these requires staying updated on regulatory changes, collaborating closely with materials scientists and software engineers, and utilizing advanced simulation tools to test and refine designs. Teamwork and ongoing professional development are essential, as the field continuously evolves with innovations in combustion technology and alternative fuels.

What is diesel engine design?

Diesel engine design refers to the process of creating and optimizing engines that use diesel fuel for combustion. This involves selecting materials, designing engine components like pistons, cylinders, and fuel injection systems, and ensuring the engine meets performance, efficiency, and emissions standards. Diesel engine designers work to balance power output, fuel economy, durability, and compliance with environmental regulations. Their work is critical for industries such as transportation, construction, agriculture, and power generation.

What is the difference between Diesel Engine Design vs Diesel Engine Maintenance?

AspectDiesel Engine DesignDiesel Engine Maintenance
CredentialsEngineering degree, CAD skillsTechnical certifications, mechanical skills
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D facilitiesWorkshops, on-site repair settings
Industry UsageEngine development, innovationEngine servicing, troubleshooting

Diesel Engine Design focuses on creating and developing new engine models, requiring engineering expertise and design skills. Diesel Engine Maintenance involves servicing and repairing existing engines, emphasizing technical and mechanical skills. Both roles are essential in the diesel engine industry but differ in their focus, environment, and required credentials.

More about Diesel Engine Design jobs
Technical Expert - Diesel Engine Combustion

Technical Expert - Diesel Engine Combustion

Ford Motor Company

Dearborn, MI • On-site

$115.50K - $218.10K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

We made history and now we work to transform the future - for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.

Product Development uses design thinking & user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We bring innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life.We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to advancements in autonomy, electrification, smart mobility technologies, and more!

In this position...

Engine Performance Development (EPD) is responsible for verifying the engine attributes related to combustion, mechanical function, and durability. In this department, we use engine dynamometers to test and validate these attributes. Our work includes optimization of diesel combustion strategies (including injection timing, rail pressure, and air-path management, etc.) to improve fuel economy and performance, validating engine durability through rigorous cycle-based testing, and establishing advertised power and torque for regulatory agencies and marketing.

We seek an expert in Diesel Combustion to help us develop and refine our current and future compression-ignition engines. This is an opportunity to shape the future of diesel technology, focusing on thermal efficiency, emissions compliance, and power density.

  • An evidence book is required for TE Candidates pending a successful interview. The evidence book should be shared with the Hiring Manager after the interview.

You'll have...

Minimum Requirements:

  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
  • 10+ years of experience in engine design and development with 6+ years of specific experience working on Diesel Combustion systems.
  • Demonstrated expert level in pertinent Technical Maturity competencies.
  • Demonstrated technical expertise in the area of compression-ignition systems, high-pressure common rail fuel systems, and engine dynamometer testing.
  • Deep understanding of the trade-offs between NOx, Particulate Matter, and Fuel Consumption.
  • Working knowledge of applicable Verification, Quality, Manufacturing, and Assembly methods.
  • Working knowledge of interfacing subsystems (Turbocharging/VGT, EGR, and Aftertreatment) to enable system optimization.

Even better, if you have ...

Preferred

  • Master's in mechanical engineering or a related field
  • Expertise in cylinder pressure analysis and combustion heat release rate modeling.
  • Knowledge of diesel engine instrumentation methods (e.g., combustion pressure measurement, soot sensors).
  • Data processing expertise (MATLAB, CONCERTO, or similar tools).
  • Working knowledge of diesel engine calibration methods and ECU strategy.
  • Experience with advanced emissions control systems (DOC, DPF, SCR).

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!
As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service 
A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day 
Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time. 

This position is leadership level 6 and ranges from $115,500-$218,100.  
 

Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.
For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/LL6

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. 

Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.

This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week. 

#LI-Hybrid

#VehicleHardwareEngineering   

#LI-JT1  

What you'll do...

  • Responsible (owner) for creation and maintenance of Core Development documents, diesel combustion workbooks, SDS, and test procedures.
  • Leads Technical Reviews:
    • Data Reviews (Leading a team of engineers through data analysis and interpretation).
    • Technical Design Reviews (e.g. piston bowl geometry, fuel injector spray patterns, and EGR system integration, etc.).
  • Provide product planning and design guidance to meet corporate objectives for CO2, NOx, and Particulate Matter (PM) targets.
  • Integral to Signoff of combustion attributes 
  • Go-To for Problem Solving - Launch, Recall, Quality / Field Issues (e.g., oil dilution, cold startability, and combustion-related NVH).
  • Coach, Mentor, and Train the next generation of combustion engineers.
  • Key interface with engine calibration, vehicle teams, test facilities, hardware integration, and Aftertreatment Integration teams.
  • Review and approve final SAE and Homologation documents and lead chief approval and sign-off. Upload and maintain final chief-signed documents into data depository.
  • Represent Ford in external technical forums (SAE, USCAR, etc.) specifically regarding diesel technology and emissions legislation.
  • Establish diesel combustion workbook attribute targets for fuel economy, performance, and "fuel file" for VEME vehicle-level attributes and powerpack/EPD development engineers.
  • Keep abreast of emerging diesel technologies (e.g., high-peak cylinder pressure capabilities, advanced SCR integration, and renewable fuels) and support development processes, including CFD and CAE methods.

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About Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Doral, FL, US

Year founded

1982