ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Powertrain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

Ilmor

Marine Powertrain Design Engineer

New Hudson, MI · On-site

$75K/yr

MARINE POWERTRAIN DESIGN ENGINEER At Ilmor Engineering, innovation runs as deep as our passion for performance. Proudly named a Crain's Top 100 Places to Work, we pair world‑class engineering with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPowertrain Jobs

Powertrain information

See salary details

$21

$37

$65

How much do powertrain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain in the United States is $37.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $42.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior powertrain engineers in the automotive or aerospace industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and simulation tools, and leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, typically found in large corporations or high-demand sectors.

What is the difference between Powertrain vs Transmission Technician?

AspectPowertrainTransmission Technician
Primary FocusEngine, transmission, drivetrain componentsTransmission systems and repairs
Required CertificationsASE certifications in engine, drivetrain, or transmissionASE Transmission Specialist certification
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, repair shops, dealershipsDealerships, repair shops, service centers
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturing, repair, and designVehicle repair and maintenance

Powertrain technicians focus on the entire drivetrain system, including engines and transmissions, while Transmission Technicians specialize specifically in transmission systems. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in repair shops or dealerships. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service focus within the automotive industry.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Powertrain engineers, especially those in senior or specialized roles within automotive or aerospace industries, can earn salaries of $300,000 or more annually. High-level managerial positions in engineering or executive roles in related fields may also reach this compensation level, often requiring advanced skills, extensive experience, and relevant certifications.

What is a powertrain?

A powertrain refers to the main components that generate power and deliver it to the road surface in a vehicle. It typically includes the engine, transmission, driveshafts, differentials, and the final drive. The powertrain is responsible for converting the engine's energy into motion, making it one of the most crucial systems in automobiles, trucks, and other machinery. Understanding how the powertrain works is essential for diagnosing performance issues and ensuring the vehicle operates efficiently.

What are some typical challenges faced by powertrain engineers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Powertrain engineers often work closely with design, manufacturing, and testing teams, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and project timelines. Ensuring effective communication across these teams is essential to avoid misunderstandings about system integration, emissions standards, and performance targets. Additionally, balancing cost, efficiency, and regulatory compliance while incorporating feedback from various stakeholders can be complex. Successful powertrain engineers proactively engage in regular meetings and use collaborative tools to keep all teams informed and aligned.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Powertrain Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Powertrain Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, with expertise in internal combustion engines, electric drivetrains, and vehicle dynamics. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, and knowledge of industry regulations or certifications such as ISO/TS 16949 are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help drive innovation and facilitate collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing efficient, reliable powertrain systems that meet performance, safety, and environmental standards.

What is the highest paid car job?

In the automotive industry, senior powertrain engineers and specialists tend to be among the highest-paid roles, often earning six-figure salaries due to their advanced technical skills and experience. High-level managerial positions in automotive design or manufacturing also offer top compensation, especially in companies focusing on electric or hybrid powertrains.

What does a powertrain engineer do?

A powertrain engineer designs, develops, and tests components of a vehicle's powertrain system, including engines, transmissions, and drivetrains. They analyze performance data, use CAD software, and ensure systems meet safety and efficiency standards throughout the development process.
More about Powertrain jobs
What cities are hiring for Powertrain jobs? Cities with the most Powertrain job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Powertrain jobs? The most popular types of Powertrain jobs are:
What states have the most Powertrain jobs? States with the most job openings for Powertrain jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain jobs are:
Powertrain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $78,487 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Powertrain System Engineer

Rivian Automotive LLC

Livonia, MI • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Rivian rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 158 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

Responsible for the modeling the powertrain architecture, coding the powertrain controllers and all software related to the powertrain system, and releasing all powertrain related components. 3+ w/Hybrid or EV

What Rivian employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Rivian logo

About Rivian

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rivian is a pioneering automotive industry player headquartered in Irvine, California. Established in 2009, the company has made notable advancements in developing sustainable transportation solutions. It is widely recognized for its electric adventure vehicles: the R1T pickup and the R1S SUV. Rivian is dedicated to creating a positive shift in societal mobility and emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and adventure as part of its core values. Their mission is to keep the world adventurous forever - a testament to their commitment in transitioning the world to sustainable transportation. Rivian's achievements are numerous, with one of the most notable being securing a significant multi-billion dollar investment from Amazon for the production of electric delivery vans.

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

2009

View All Rivian Jobs

Apply