Propulsion Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
This is a hands-on role centered on engine assembly, design, tuning, and qualification via testing ... Engine test-stand or dyno experience: Experience building or running an instrumented cell ...
Propulsion Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
This is a hands-on role centered on engine assembly, design, tuning, and qualification via testing ... Engine test-stand or dyno experience: Experience building or running an instrumented cell ...
... tuning at the bench. * MATLAB/Simulink or Python for plant modeling and controller design. * Hands-on bench discipline: dyno setup, frequency-response characterization, fault injection, and ...
Quick apply
... tuning at the bench. * MATLAB/Simulink or Python for plant modeling and controller design. * Hands-on bench discipline: dyno setup, frequency-response characterization, fault injection, and ...
Powertrain Systems & Diagnostics Engineer
Torrance, CA · On-site
$86K - $108K/yr
Support engine dyno, chassis dyno, on-road drive tuning as well as track testing activities * Support and maintain ECU and PDM programming and functionality * Interface with cross-functional teams to ...
Powertrain Systems & Diagnostics Engineer
Torrance, CA · On-site
$86K - $108K/yr
Support engine dyno, chassis dyno, on-road drive tuning as well as track testing activities * Support and maintain ECU and PDM programming and functionality * Interface with cross-functional teams to ...
Dyno Tuning information
See California salary details
$12 - $20.24
25% of jobs
$20.34 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$20.24 - $28.48
24% of jobs
The median wage is $29.43 / hr.
$28.48 - $36.72
14% of jobs
$36.72 - $44.96
9% of jobs
$47.53 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$44.96 - $53.20
13% of jobs
$53.20 - $61.44
6% of jobs
$61.44 - $69.68
2% of jobs
$69.68 - $77.91
4% of jobs
$77.91 - $86.15
0% of jobs
$86.15 - $94.39
0% of jobs
$94.39 - $102.63
3% of jobs
$12
$40
$102
How much do dyno tuning jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for dyno tuning in California is $40.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $50.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is dyno tuning?
A Dyno Tuning job involves optimizing a vehicle's engine performance using a dynamometer (dyno). The dyno measures horsepower, torque, and air-fuel ratios while adjustments are made to improve power, efficiency, and drivability. This process ensures the engine runs at its best by fine-tuning the ECU (engine control unit) settings, ignition timing, and fuel delivery. Dyno tuning is commonly used for performance vehicles, modified engines, or to maximize fuel efficiency and reliability.
What does a typical day look like for someone working in dyno tuning?
A typical day for a Dyno Tuning specialist involves inspecting and preparing vehicles, setting up the dynamometer, and running controlled engine tests to evaluate performance metrics. You'll analyze data using specialized software, make real-time adjustments to fuel and ignition mappings, and collaborate with mechanics or performance specialists to troubleshoot issues. Customer consultations are common, as you'll often explain findings and recommend performance modifications. The role blends hands-on technical work with problem-solving and requires excellent communication to ensure that modifications meet client expectations and safety standards.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in dyno tuning?
To thrive in Dyno Tuning, expertise in automotive mechanics, engine performance, and fuel management is crucial, typically acquired through technical training or ASE certification. Familiarity with dynamometers, engine management software, and diagnostic tools like wideband oxygen sensors is essential for precise calibration tasks. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication with both team members and customers set top performers apart. These skills ensure accurate tuning, customer satisfaction, and optimal engine performance in a safe workshop environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dyno Tuning jobs in California?
The most popular types of Dyno Tuning jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Dyno Tuning jobs in California?
For Dyno Tuning jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dyno Tuning jobs in California look for?
The top searched job categories for Dyno Tuning jobs in California are:
Full-time
Medical, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted yesterday
Job description
About Poseidon Aerospace:
Poseidon Aerospace is reimagining how the world moves goods. We build and operate full-size autonomous cargo aircraft; Heron, a seaplane, and Egret, a STOL aircraft; each capable of carrying two tons of payload over a thousand nautical miles. From remote communities to contested logistics operations, our platforms unlock a new cost curve for air freight, making it faster, cheaper, and accessible anywhere it's needed. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area with locations in Washington DC, Oregon, and Maine; we're building something consequential.
About the role:
As a Propulsion Engineer at Poseidon Aerospace, you will lead the propulsion team's development from initial assembly and bring-up to a fully calibrated, instrumented powerplant ready for flight. This is a hands-on role centered on engine assembly, design, tuning, and qualification via testing. You will run engines on the test stand, develop test procedures, prove they meet performance and durability targets, and collaborate cross-functionally to iterate and improve on the propulsion system.
If you have an interest in aviation, working hands-on in a test environment, motorsports or high performance engine tuning experience, and have strong instincts running an engine test cell, we are looking for you to join Poseidon.
Responsibilities
Core Skills
Qualifications
What you'll get from us
What you get from us
Even if you don't meet every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply. At Poseidon Aerospace, we value diverse perspectives and are always looking for talented individuals with unconventional backgrounds.
Poseidon Aerospace is reimagining how the world moves goods. We build and operate full-size autonomous cargo aircraft; Heron, a seaplane, and Egret, a STOL aircraft; each capable of carrying two tons of payload over a thousand nautical miles. From remote communities to contested logistics operations, our platforms unlock a new cost curve for air freight, making it faster, cheaper, and accessible anywhere it's needed. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area with locations in Washington DC, Oregon, and Maine; we're building something consequential.
About the role:
As a Propulsion Engineer at Poseidon Aerospace, you will lead the propulsion team's development from initial assembly and bring-up to a fully calibrated, instrumented powerplant ready for flight. This is a hands-on role centered on engine assembly, design, tuning, and qualification via testing. You will run engines on the test stand, develop test procedures, prove they meet performance and durability targets, and collaborate cross-functionally to iterate and improve on the propulsion system.
If you have an interest in aviation, working hands-on in a test environment, motorsports or high performance engine tuning experience, and have strong instincts running an engine test cell, we are looking for you to join Poseidon.
Responsibilities
- Calibrate the engine across the full aviation operating envelope: fueling, ignition, idle stability, transient response, knock, and closed-loop strategy on a standalone ECU, with the propeller governor tuned to performance and reliability targets.
- Run the engine test program on an instrumented test stand: break-in, bring-up, performance mapping, and endurance/qualification runs that prove each engine flight-ready.
- Bring up the integrated engine from assembled hardware through verification: Outfit assemblies, prepare systems, diagnose faults, and close out anomalies.
- Operate test instrumentation and DAQ: Specify and collect required data to drive propulsion system improvements and validation in a safe and traceable manner.
- Translate & Present findings: Distill, document, and present data to validate requirements, limits, and drive design changes. Work closely with other teams to refine and improve propulsion systems.
- Refine & Develop the break-in, operating, inspection, and maintenance procedures: Document and collect the procedures that carry the propulsion systems through test stand runs, ground runs, and flight tests.
Core Skills
- Applied tuning of standalone/aftermarket ECUs: Fuel and ignition mapping, idle and transient control, drive-by-wire, knock, and sensor/DTC strategy.
- Strong conceptual and hands-on knowledge of 4-stroke piston engines
- Engine test-stand or dyno experience: Experience building or running an instrumented cell, including thrust/torque measurement, cooling and oil-system instrumentation, and DAQ.
- Working knowledge of aircraft propeller and constant-speed governor systems.
- Sharp diagnostic, setup, and troubleshooting skills.
- Familiarity with controlled assembly and maintenance standards: FOD prevention, tool management, and shop safety.
Qualifications
- Hands-on experience tuning, calibrating, and bringing up EFI piston engine systems: Aviation, motorsport, engine-swap, or standalone-ECU backgrounds are strongly relevant.
- Experience qualifying or validating engines on a test cell, dyno, or test stand, and ideally through ground and flight testing.
- Practical knowledge of aviation and automotive fuels (AvGas, MoGas) and their effect on calibration.
- Comfortable working at the bench and on the aircraft, with strong, self-directed troubleshooting instincts.
- Strong collaboration skills to communicate verification findings and design feedback clearly across disciplines.
What you'll get from us
- Competitive salary and meaningful early-stage equity
- Relocation support if applicable
- Low-ego, collaborative workplace culture
- 6% retirement matching
- Unlimited PTO
- Free lunches, snacks, and a stocked fridge at our offices
- AI tools and subscriptions
What you get from us
- Competitive salary and meaningful early-stage equity
- Relocation support if applicable
- Employee Health Benefit Plans
- 6% Retirement matching
- Flexible PTO
- Free lunches, snacks, and a stocked fridge at our offices
- AI tools and subscriptions
Even if you don't meet every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply. At Poseidon Aerospace, we value diverse perspectives and are always looking for talented individuals with unconventional backgrounds.