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Powertrain Control Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAPA Transmission

Powertrain Engineer

Utica, MI · On-site

Develop and maintain vehicle-level powertrain models (1D, multi-physics, and control-oriented) to ... Mentor junior engineers through technical guidance in modeling, simulation, and powertrain analysis.

SAPA Transmission

Powertrain Engineer

Utica, MI · On-site

Develop and maintain vehicle-level powertrain models (1D, multi-physics, and control-oriented) to ... Mentor junior engineers through technical guidance in modeling, simulation, and powertrain analysis.

Aquent

Fleet Support Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$65.20 - $72.44/hr

Tune and validate powertrain control parameters to optimize performance and efficiency, pushing the ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Automotive Engineering.

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Powertrain Control Engineer information

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$55K

$96.6K

$131K

How much do powertrain control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for powertrain control engineer in the United States is $96,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Powertrain Control Engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in automotive control systems, and certifications, can earn $200,000 or more annually. Salaries at this level are often found in senior roles within automotive or aerospace industries, particularly in companies with complex engineering projects and competitive compensation packages.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Powertrain Control Engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within automotive or aerospace industries. Senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in control systems, and leadership responsibilities may approach high six-figure incomes, but reaching $500,000 usually involves additional bonuses, stock options, or executive positions.

What are some typical challenges faced by Powertrain Control Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing vehicle platforms?

Powertrain Control Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as electric or hybrid systems, into established vehicle platforms. These challenges include ensuring compatibility between new control algorithms and legacy hardware, meeting stringent emissions and performance standards, and managing complex calibration processes. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including software developers, mechanical engineers, and testing specialists, is essential to address these hurdles. Staying up-to-date with evolving automotive standards and leveraging simulation tools can also help mitigate integration risks.

What does a Powertrain Control Engineer do?

A Powertrain Control Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and calibrating the electronic control systems that manage a vehicle's powertrain, which includes the engine, transmission, and related components. They work to optimize performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions by developing control algorithms and software. These engineers often use simulation tools and testing procedures to ensure that vehicles meet regulatory standards and customer expectations. Their role is crucial in the development of modern vehicles, especially as automotive technology moves toward electrification and advanced driver assistance systems.

What is the difference between Powertrain Control Engineer vs Automotive Software Engineer?

AspectPowertrain Control EngineerAutomotive Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Automotive Engineering; experience with control systemsBachelor's or Master's in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering; programming skills
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing engine control units, working in automotive R&D labsDeveloping embedded software, coding, and testing in automotive or tech companies
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturing, OEMs, Tier 1 suppliersAutomotive industry, tech firms, suppliers

Powertrain Control Engineers focus on designing and optimizing engine and transmission control systems, while Automotive Software Engineers develop embedded software for vehicle systems. Both roles require technical skills and work within the automotive industry, but their core responsibilities differ in hardware versus software development.

What does a powertrain engineer do?

A powertrain control engineer designs, develops, and tests systems that manage a vehicle's engine, transmission, and related components to optimize performance, efficiency, and emissions. They often work with control algorithms, sensors, and software tools, and require knowledge of automotive systems and programming skills. Their work ensures the powertrain operates smoothly and reliably under various conditions.

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

To thrive as a Powertrain Control Engineer, you need expertise in automotive engineering, control systems, and embedded software development, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or automotive engineering. Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, CANalyzer, and experience with calibration software or automotive control units is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and address complex technical challenges. These abilities are crucial for developing efficient, reliable powertrain systems that meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Powertrain Control Engineers in the automotive and aerospace industries can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in control systems, and relevant certifications. High-level engineers in specialized fields or leadership roles may reach this compensation level, often working in large corporations or with performance-based incentives.
More about Powertrain Control Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Powertrain Control Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Powertrain Control Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Powertrain Control Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Powertrain Control Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain Control Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain Control Engineer jobs are:
Powertrain Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Control Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.
Propulsion Systems Validation Engineer (BEV & ICE)

Propulsion Systems Validation Engineer (BEV & ICE)

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Stellantis rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

Join a fast-paced engineering team responsible for validating next-generation propulsion systems, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and internal combustion engines (ICE). You will help ensure high-quality powertrain software through rigorous validation, testing, and cross-functional collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
  • Execute validation of powertrain control modules, including hardware, software, and calibrations
  • Perform testing in vehicle environments and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulation systems
  • Develop and execute DVP&R test plans and procedures
  • Conduct initial root cause analysis and document test failures
  • Collaborate with Validation Project Chief and engineering teams to track and resolve issues
  • Support requirements-based testing, including traceability and coverage
  • Drive continuous improvement of validation processes and test strategies

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical Engineering or related degree field
  • Experience in powertrain or related engineering position
  • Experience with propulsion sub systems, verification or validation of powertrain control systems
  • Familiarity with requirements-based testing and test case development.
  • Familiarity with embedded controls, working with OBD and federal diagnostic requirements / diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
  • Working knowledge of diagnostic tools ex. CDA, CAN/LIN communication protocols and how to interface with embedded devices
  • Familiarity with HIL Hardware in the loop Simulators (ex. dSPACE)
  • Good written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Must be able to legally drive a vehicle in the USA

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master of Science degree in Engineering
  • Some exposure to IBM ELM/ALM based tools such as but not limited to: DOORs, PTC Integrity, Rational Quality Manager (RQM), Rational Team Center (RTC) etc.
  • Demonstrated interest in powertrain and/or vehicle development
  • Some history of scripting/programming language interest (ex. Python, visual basic, etc.)

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