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Powertrain Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AVL LIST GmbH

System Design Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

The System Design Engineer is responsible for the design, integration, and technical execution of ... Design and develop emissions testing systems and laboratory solutions for engine, powertrain ...

AVL DiTEST

System Design Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site +1

$95K - $130K/yr

The System Design Engineer is responsible for the design, integration, and technical execution of ... Design and develop emissions testing systems and laboratory solutions for engine, powertrain ...

Canoo

eMotor Design Engineer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

Job Title eMotor Design Engineer About Canoo Canoo's mission is to bring EVs to Everyone and build ... Master's Degree (or higher) in Electrical Engineering * 5 years of Automotive powertrain ...

Astemo Ltd

ICE Design Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site +1

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

ICE Design Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

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 ...

Stellantis

Senior Designer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$96K - $103K/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 ...

Geoprobe Systems

Machine Design Engineer

Salina, KS

$72K - $97K/yr

The Machine Design Engineer works with a team to design, build, and test drill rigs for the ... powertrain, and control systems. They will also enjoy getting out in the shop to test and refine ...

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Powertrain Design Engineer information

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How much do powertrain design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain design engineer in the United States is $43.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.94 and $43.03 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.

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.

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.
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Powertrain Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,315 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

System Design Engineer

AVL LIST GmbH

Plymouth, MI • On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design and develop emissions testing systems and laboratory solutions for engine, powertrain, vehicle, and component testing applications.

  • Define system architectures, equipment specifications, and technical requirements based on customer needs and regulatory requirements.

  • Coordinate technical interfaces between emissions measurement equipment, automation systems, facility infrastructure, and test cell subsystems.

Job description

AVL Test Systems Inc offers a job in the United States (US) as
System Design Engineer
AVL Test Systems, Inc. is seeking a System Design Engineer to join our Emissions Design Services team. The System Design Engineer is responsible for the design, integration, and technical execution of advanced emissions measurement and test systems supporting automotive, heavy-duty, non-road, aerospace, and emerging powertrain applications.
Working within a multidisciplinary engineering team, the System Design Engineer develops complete emissions laboratory and test cell solutions that meet customer requirements, regulatory standards, and project objectives. This includes defining system architectures, specifying equipment and instrumentation, developing technical documentation, and ensuring seamless integration of emissions measurement systems with facility, automation, electrical, mechanical, and safety subsystems.
The System Design Engineer serves as the technical owner of complex emissions testing projects and is responsible for one or more subsystems throughout the project lifecycle. Responsibilities include managing technical interfaces between emissions analyzers, sample handling systems, dilution tunnels, particulate measurement equipment, automation systems, facility utilities, and customer-owned equipment while balancing engineering cost, quality, and schedule objectives.
The role collaborates closely with project managers, applications engineers, controls engineers, electrical and mechanical designers, and commissioning teams to ensure successful implementation and operation of the complete test solution. The System Design Engineer also supports system integration, troubleshooting, verification, validation, and customer acceptance activities, ensuring that delivered systems achieve required performance, accuracy, and compliance with applicable emissions testing standards.
Work Location & Travel
  • This position follows a hybrid work arrangement, allowing a combination of remote and office-based work.
  • Engineers are expected to periodically support onsite project activities, including system integration, commissioning, and customer acceptance testing.
  • Customer projects are primarily located in Michigan and the Midwest; therefore, occasional travel to customer locations may be required based on project needs.
  • Typical travel is expected to be less than 25%.

Applicants must have the unrestricted authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Employer will not sponsor an applicant for a work visa for this position.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and develop emissions testing systems and laboratory solutions for engine, powertrain, vehicle, and component testing applications.
  • Define system architectures, equipment specifications, and technical requirements based on customer needs and regulatory requirements.
  • Develop and review system layouts, process and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), functional descriptions, and technical documentation.
  • Coordinate technical interfaces between emissions measurement equipment, automation systems, facility infrastructure, and test cell subsystems.
  • Support equipment selection, procurement, factory acceptance testing, commissioning, and site acceptance activities.
  • Troubleshoot system design and integration issues and develop effective technical solutions.
  • Support verification and validation activities to ensure system performance and compliance with applicable industry standards.
  • Collaborate with project teams to manage technical risks, engineering schedules, and project deliverables.
  • Provide technical guidance to customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders throughout project execution.

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS:
Experience & Education
  • 3-5+ years of relevant engineering experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline; equivalent experience may be considered.
  • Master's degree in Engineering preferred.

Technical Knowledge
  • Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, thermodynamics, and chemical process calculations.
  • Experience with dew point analysis, air flow characterization, pressure loss calculations, duct sizing, calibration methods, and mass/chemical balance calculations.
  • Knowledge of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and emissions measurement principles is a plus.
  • Familiarity with automotive emissions regulations, testing standards, and laboratory quality systems, including ISO 9001 and ISO 17025, is a plus.
  • Understanding of mechanical, electrical, controls, automation, and facility infrastructure systems used in test laboratories.

Industry Experience
  • Experience with emissions measurement systems, engine or vehicle testing, laboratory design, test cell integration, or related engineering applications.
  • Working knowledge of emissions analyzers, particulate measurement systems, dilution systems, sample handling systems, and associated instrumentation.
  • Automotive experience, particularly with combustion engine, hybrid, or alternative powertrain technologies, is preferred.

Professional Skills
  • Strong systems engineering and analytical problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and develop practical solutions.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills for working across multidisciplinary engineering teams.

AVL provides a competitive compensation and benefits package to all direct hires. Specific benefit details and offer packages will be communicated during the interview and/or offer stage.
We look forward to receiving your details; please use our online application form or send your application to AVL North America, Inc. / AVL Test Systems, Inc. / AVL Mobility Technologies, Inc. EOE Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled. Click Here to see the EEO is the Law poster.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access www.avl.com as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by calling (734)-446-4106.
ABOUT AVL NORTH AMERICA
AVL North America has a staff of more than 550 people and has four technical centers in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the Metro Detroit area, and Lake Forest, California.
About AVL
AVL is one of the world's leading mobility technology companies for development, simulation and testing in the automotive industry, and beyond. We provide concepts, solutions and methodologies in fields like vehicle development and integration, e-mobility, automated and connected mobility (ADAS/AD), and software for a greener, safer, better world of mobility.
Find out more: www.avl.com
Reimagining Motion. For a greener, safer, better world of mobility.
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