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Powertrain Control Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

Powertrain Calibration Technical Expertise & Methods Engineer Job Location: Chelsea, MI Job ... Diesel/Gasoline emission control. * Particle filter / SCR. * Diesel combustion noise, Knock.

MARINE POWERTRAIN DESIGN ENGINEER At Ilmor Engineering, innovation runs as deep as our passion for ... Electrical and control systems * Demonstrate a working knowledge of gearboxes/drive systems and ...

Motor Control Engineer II

Everett, WA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

About the role The Motor Control Engineer II develops and optimizes motion control algorithms for ... powertrain system. * Support testing teams in test data processing, test reports, and ...

Develop controller architecture design plans by researching, analyzing, selecting, and applying powertrain control engineering techniques and criteria. This involves circuit design including ...

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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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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:
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.
ICE/xEV Powertrain Dyno Engineer

ICE/xEV Powertrain Dyno Engineer

Ford Motor Company

Dearborn, MI • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 12 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!

As a Powertrain Dynamometer Calibration Engineer, you will be responsible for feature calibration efforts in the ELD dyno facility. You will support the commodity calibration teams to deliver production-release calibrations through various features, including emissions and OBD development. This role serves as a technical bridge between hardware-in-the-loop and physical testing, requiring the ability to navigate the complexities of hybrid powertrains and resolve sophisticated control system conflicts that arise during the testing phase.

You'll have...

  • B.S. in Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical)
  • 3+ years experience in powertrain calibration engineering.
  • In-depth background and knowledge of the powertrain calibration development process, dynamometer, controls, and test methods.
  • Knowledge of hybrid powertrain architectures, control systems theory, and vehicle networking.
  • Experienced with calibration and dyno development tools, i.e., ATI/ETAS, PUMA/CAMEO.
  • Familiar with CAN bus analysis tools (e.g., Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, or Intrepid Vehicle Spy).
  • Good analytical skills for data reduction and analysis.
  • Experience with Excel/Matlab/Python for data analysis and basic programming.
  • Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.


Even better, you may have...

  • M.S. in Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical).
  • 5+ years experience in a powertrain related role.

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.
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/GSR

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

#LI-CW1 

#vehiclehardwareengineering

In this position...

  • Perform engine/powertrain dyno data collection and analysis to generate calibrations for traditional internal combustion and electrified systems.
  • Develop dynamometer-based powertrain feature calibrations in support of program releases, including hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV/PHEV) energy management and torque arbitration.
  • Perform basic troubleshooting of CAN/CAN FD communication issues and control module interactions between the test cell and the powertrain.
  • Debug complex control logic and software integration issues to ensure dyno results accurately reflect real-world vehicle behavior.
  • Proactively manage calibration tasks to deliver programs on time with quality.
  • Effective communication with program commodity calibration teams regarding calibration maturity and hardware limitations.


What you'll do...

  • Work with dyno test engineers on test cell/PT setup for proper data collection, ensuring high-voltage safety and hybrid system cooling requirements are met.
  • Lead daily test cell activities with technicians and test engineers to complete program deliverables.
  • Improve test cell operating efficiency using automation and scripted testing procedures.
  • Create and develop efficient data and calibration processing tools for OBD, emissions and base engine features.
  • Actively engage with subject matter experts and the larger calibration community to stay relevant with new and changing features/regulations.
     

Ford logo

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