1

Powertrain Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Must have extensive engine design experience (powertrain or driveline experience alone will not be considered) Reliance One, Inc. is seeking an experienced Design Engineer with a strong background in ...

Job Title: Powertrain Engineer Join a dynamic team where you will perform engineering work to ... Utilize high-level CAD systems for design purposes. * Work with vehicle control systems and ...

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 ...

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 ...

Product Design Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$99K - $166K/yr

The Propulsive Vehicle Controls Software Engineer position involves the design, implementation, and ... Develop & apply powertrain control system software validation test methods, tools, and processes to ...

Product Design Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$99K - $166K/yr

The Propulsive Vehicle Controls Software Engineer position involves the design, implementation, and validation of powertrain customer software components involving torque management and driver ...

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'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 ...

... Engineering • 4+ years in automotive design/development • Demonstrable CAD skills and a strong ... typical powertrain CAE design software (FEA, CFD, GT Power or similar). • Hands-on experience ...

Senior Designer

Auburn Hills, MI

$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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Powertrain Design Engineer information

See salary details

$33

$43

$65

How much do powertrain design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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.
More about Powertrain Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Powertrain Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Powertrain Design Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Powertrain Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Powertrain Design Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Powertrain Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,315 per year, or $43.9 per hour.
Staff Engine Design Engineer - Architect

Staff Engine Design Engineer - Architect

Generac

Waukesha, WI

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Generac Power Systems rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most.

Form more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future.


Ready to Power a Smarter World with us?


The Staff Engine Design Engineer - Architect plays an important role in advancing the design and performance of internal combustion engines (ICE), through engine design, data-driven analysis, simulation, and design of system components. This position leverages Creo, Python, and advance calculation tools to optimize system behavior, improve engine design and product reliability, and increase engine performance across a range of gaseous fueled applications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design engine systems and components for using design reviews, calculations, problem solving, and simulation input to support overall engine and generator design.

  • Evaluate the engine and systems designs relative to performance and emissions.

  • Conduct system analysis using calculations to aid in optimizing the peak and reliability performance of the engine/generator.

  • Interpret testing results and collaborate with cross-functional teams through design reviews and technical discussions to guide product development.

  • Contribute to the development of engine workflows and analysis best practices to improve group efficiency and accuracy.

  • Document project objectives, methods, and results using standardized reporting formats.

  • Apply data analysis techniques, including Matlab/Simulink or Python-based scripting, and machine learning to support predictive modeling and performance forecasting.

  • Stay informed on relevant technologies, tools, and industry trends to support continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or related discipline

  • 7+ years of relevant work experience

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Experience in an Automotive, Design, or a related engineering discipline.

  • Hands-on experience with engine and engine component design.

  • Experience in powertrain design and analysis - CREO or similar.

  • Hands-on experience with FEA as applied to engine design.

  • Broad experience in new IC engine design using Creo or equivalent.

  • Ability to create design for internal combustion engines, including cases, heads, valvetrain, rotating assembly, belt drives, exhaust systems, and intake systems.

  • History in designing, testing, and integration of complex components and evaluation of overall effectiveness, cost (including cost/benefit analysis), reliability (risk analysis), and safety.

  • Designs, develops, executes, and evaluates design, product specifications, process validation plans, and testing for a variety of complex products and/or components.

  • Ability to perform detail-oriented work with a high degree of accuracy on multiple projects.

  • Good knowledge of internal combustion engine performance design and specification.

  • Analytical and problem-solving skills, with a deep understanding of internal combustion engine design, operation, and testing.

  • Written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly interpret and present complex simulation results to technical and non-technical audiences.

  • Collaborate with internal manufacturing partners, contract manufacturers, designers, and product specialists to optimize complex and advanced designs for performance.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of internal combustion engines and effective engine design methods.

  • Experience with FEA.

  • Extensive Experience with internal combustion engine performance development and specification.

  • Demonstrated written communication and presentation skills.

  • Ability to apply engineering knowledge and experience to improve products, services and processes.

  • Data analysis and control/diagnostic feature creation skills.

  • Familiarity with systems engineering based problem solving.

  • Proven ability to work well with others as part of a diverse global team.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionallylift upto 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional Travel.


What Generac Power Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom