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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.

Lancesoft

Fleet Support Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$70 - $74/hr

Fleet Support Engineer Location: Foster City, CA 94404 Duration: 6+ Months (potential to extend ... Tune and validate powertrain control parameters to optimize performance and efficiency. * Analyze ...

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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 2, 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.
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Powertrain Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Control Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. 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.
Electrified Powertrain Controls Engineer - Senior

Electrified Powertrain Controls Engineer - Senior

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$91K - $121K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Stellantis rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

The Electrified Powertrain Controls Engineer will contribute to the development and delivery of electrified powertrain control systems within the CoE of PRC Electrified Propulsion Controls.
The ideal candidate has strong experience in control systems applied to electrified propulsion and is capable of independently developing control strategies in key areas such as torque management, energy management, thermal management, charging, and diagnostics and Auxiliary Emission Control Device (AECD) identification.
This role requires system-level thinking and the ability to lead subsystem development, ensuring robust design, validation, and integration across vehicle programs.
The most important activities assigned are:
  • Analyze high-level requirements and derive control strategies
  • AECD Identification, Impact Assessment & Documentation
  • Design, implement, and validate control algorithms
  • Lead MIL/SIL/HIL verification activities
  • Deliver production-quality proto code builds
  • Perform root cause analysis and issue resolution
  • Define and support calibration strategies
  • Drive technical discussions and cross-functional alignment
  • Mentor junior engineers
  • Contribute to process improvements and best practices

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelors' degree in relevant engineering field
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience in controls/software engineering
  • Strong knowledge of vehicle and propulsion systems
  • Proven experience in modeling, validation, and calibration
  • Excellent problem-solving and teamwork skills
  • Strong knowledge of electrified architectures and energy management
  • Advanced control techniques
  • Proficiency in Matlab/Simulink/Stateflow and autocode tools
  • Strong embedded C/C++ skills
  • Experience with INCA, CANalyzer, ControlDesk, HIL systems
  • Understanding of OBD and communication standards
  • Strong validation (MIL/SIL/HIL) ownership
  • Ability to lead subsystem development
  • Strong communication and reporting to management
  • Capable of working across global teams (US/EU)
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in relevant engineering field

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