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Powertrain Controls Engineer information

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$55K

$96.6K

$131K

How much do powertrain controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for powertrain controls 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 does a powertrain controls engineer do?

A Powertrain Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing the control systems that manage a vehicle's powertrain, which includes the engine, transmission, and related components. They work on software and hardware integration to ensure efficient performance, fuel economy, and emissions compliance. Their role often involves calibrating control algorithms, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with other engineering teams to meet regulatory and customer requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a powertrain controls engineer, and why are they important?

A Powertrain Controls Engineer needs a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, with expertise in powertrain systems, control theory, and automotive engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, CAN communication protocols, and embedded control systems is essential, along with experience using calibration and diagnostic software. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and teamwork skills help individuals excel in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing, developing, and optimizing powertrain control strategies that meet performance, efficiency, and regulatory standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by powertrain controls engineers, and how can they be overcome?

Powertrain Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new control algorithms with existing vehicle systems, troubleshooting hardware-software interactions, and meeting strict emissions and fuel efficiency standards. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, close collaboration with cross-functional teams such as calibration, validation, and mechanical engineers, and staying up-to-date with the latest automotive technologies. Adopting systematic testing procedures, using advanced simulation tools, and actively participating in team design reviews can help overcome these hurdles and ensure successful project outcomes.
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Powertrain Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Powertrain Controls Engineer

Mount Vernon, WA • On-site

Pentangle Tech Services
See more jobs at Pentangle Tech Servicesexternal

$88K - $114K/yr

Other

PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Powertrain Controls Engineer

Location: Mount Vernon, Washington (Onsite)

The onsite engineer would be responsible for the engine calibration and making changes as needed while working with the teams to improve the drivability of the product as a complete system, including joining offsite test trips, working closely with the integration teams onsite, and working as an extension of those teams. 

Specific work elements that this role will be responsible for:

  • Acceleration/transient response – gear shifts, transitions in/out of coasting and engine braking
  • Low speed maneuverability – light pedal vehicle behavior, with/without load and grades
  • Cold start – Fuel blends and altitude
  • Cruise control
  • Altitude performance – drivability, low speed, accel, derate strategy/reporting for the transmission
  • Launch (idle governor) tuning for rear axle ratio range and transmission variants with PTC and transmission supplier jointly
  • Extended idle performance (desorb and soot)
  • PTO gain tuning for customer applications
  • Torque limiting with brake application and powertrain component limits (max torque per gear, axle shaft, etc.)
  • System integration including CAN communication and subsystem diagnostic communication

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