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Powertrain Design Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Our Client's Powertrain Design & Evaluation (PDE) is looking for a passionate, highly motivated powertrain engineer to work on high voltage battery development. The primary responsibility of this ...

Design Engineer Location: Ann Arbor, MI 48105 Duration: 12 Months Company Background: Our client, a ... Experience with CREO, WBDM, and typical powertrain CAE design software (FEA, CFD, GT Power or ...

Astemo's Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Business Unit expertise includes various powertrain ... This position will be part of the ICE Design Engineering (DE) group and will be responsible for ...

Astemo's Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Business Unit expertise includes various powertrain ... This position will be part of the ICE Design Engineering (DE) group and will be responsible for ...

Senior Designer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$96.50K - $103.20K/yr

... Powertrain Design Services group. The primary responsibilities include performing packaging ... Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering or a technology related discipline * Experience in the ...

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Powertrain Design Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$29

$38

$56

How much do powertrain design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain design engineer in Michigan is $38.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.94 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Powertrain Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, with expertise in powertrain systems, CAD software, and engineering analysis—typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with tools like CATIA, Siemens NX, MATLAB/Simulink, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications (such as Six Sigma or ISO) are often required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and innovate solutions for complex engineering challenges. These abilities are vital to ensure the design, efficiency, and reliability of vehicle powertrain systems in a competitive automotive industry.

How does a Powertrain Design Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering teams during a vehicle development project?

Powertrain Design Engineers work closely with cross-functional teams including electrical, chassis, and manufacturing engineers to ensure seamless integration of the powertrain into the overall vehicle design. Regular meetings and design reviews are common, where engineers discuss technical challenges and align on performance, packaging, and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as design decisions often impact other systems and the overall project timeline. This teamwork not only streamlines the development process but also provides valuable opportunities for learning and professional growth.

What does a Powertrain Design Engineer do?

A Powertrain Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing the components that make up a vehicle's powertrain, such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain systems. They work to improve performance, efficiency, and reliability of these systems while ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. Powertrain Design Engineers collaborate with other engineering teams to integrate new technologies, troubleshoot issues, and optimize designs for manufacturing and cost-effectiveness.

What is the difference between Powertrain Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPowertrain Design EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Mechanical Engineering; knowledge of engine systemsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; broad engineering fundamentals
Work EnvironmentAutomotive or aerospace R&D, manufacturing facilitiesVarious industries including manufacturing, aerospace, energy
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, heavy machineryMultiple sectors including automotive, industrial, consumer products

Powertrain Design Engineers focus specifically on designing and developing vehicle propulsion systems, such as engines and transmissions, within automotive and aerospace industries. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Powertrain Design Engineers specialize in powertrain components, making their skills more targeted for automotive propulsion systems.

What are popular job titles related to Powertrain Design Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Powertrain Design Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain Design Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain Design Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Powertrain Design Engineer jobs in MI? For Powertrain Design Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Marine Powertrain Design Engineer

Marine Powertrain Design Engineer

Ilmor Engineering

New Hudson, MI • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

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 a collaborative culture where great ideas are encouraged, and excellence is expected. From championship-winning powertrain solutions to cutting-edge marine technology, our teams shape the future of high-performance engineering every day.
We're looking for a Marine Powertrain Design Engineer who's excited to turn bold concepts into production-ready reality. If you're energized by solving complex design challenges, thrive in a hands-on engineering environment, and want your work powering some of the the most powerful boats and fun family experiences the summer can offer, this is your moment to make waves.
Essential Job Functions (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities):
  • Develop high-quality 3D models and 2D drawings of marine powertrain components using SolidWorks, ensuring accuracy, manufacturability, and adherence to engineering standards.
  • Support mechanical product design and development across the full product lifecycle, from early-stage concepts to production-ready components.
  • Evaluate and optimize design alternatives for performance, weight, packaging, quality, benchmarking, geometry creation, and functional requirements.
  • Apply detailed understanding of gasoline engine operation and associated subsystems, including:
  • Exhaust systems
  • Cooling systems (heat exchangers, cooling pumps)
  • Intake systems
  • Electrical and control systems
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of gearboxes/drive systems and their integration with the engine and powertrain.
  • Incorporate strong design-for-manufacturing (DFM) and design-for-assembly (DFA) principles into all work to ensure efficient and cost-effective production.
  • Generate creative, forward-thinking design concepts to support future product development and innovation initiatives.
  • Manage designs from concept through validation and successful production implementation, ensuring alignment with program timing and quality targets.
  • Collaborate closely with the Ilmor Manufacturing Team to transition designs into volume production, resolving issues and supporting production readiness.
  • Support product testing, validation, and launch activities, including documentation and engineering changes as needed.

Required Qualifications
  • Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
  • 1-3+ years of professional experience is highly desired.
  • NOTE: An exceptionally motivated recent college graduate with a Solidworks Certification and prior internship experience may also be considered.
  • Proven experience in mechanical design, preferably within powertrain or related mechanical systems
  • Demonstrated innovative spirit
  • Verifiable SolidWorks capabilities, Certification highly desirable
  • Self-motivated and accountable with strong problem-solving skills
  • Mechanical aptitude/capability
  • Proficient in Solidworks
  • Proficient in GD&T
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills with a team player mentality
  • Quality systems experience (ISO 9001)

Nuts & Bolts
  • FLSA: Exempt (Salaried)
  • Salary Range: $75,000+ based on experience
  • Medical, Dental, Vision: Eligible
  • 401K: 3% Safe Harbor Company Contribution
  • Profit Sharing Annual Bonus: Eligible
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability & Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • General Schedule: M-F 8am - 5pm
  • Paid Time Off
  • Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.