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Powertrain Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Navier

Senior Electric Powertrain Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Work with vendors and contractors to design and build custom powertrain components. * Lead Navier's EE team and grow it into the premier electric boat engineering team. Required Experience & Skills:

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 ...

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How much do powertrain design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,315 per year, or $43.9 per hour.
ENGINEER - RESEARCH ENGINEER - Computer Aided Design (CAD)

ENGINEER - RESEARCH ENGINEER - Computer Aided Design (CAD)

Southwest Research Institute - Fulltime

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 57 rated research

Job description

Who We Are: The Powertrain Design section works with the Powertrain Analysis section as well other development groups within the Powertrain Engineering division to provide robust combustion engine and electric powertrain solutions for both research and production intent clients around the world. Objectives of this Role: Collaborate with Principal Engineers and senior design staff to develop and refine concepts, while also supporting design projects with minimal supervision. Identify opportunities to improve and streamline the design and prototyping processes.

Follow established design processes and maintain required documentation for each project, including handling of government or Department of Defense (DOD) information when necessary. Daily and Monthly Responsibilities: Create and modify 3D CAD models using modern CAD software, preferably CREO or SolidWorks. Apply Top-Down or Skeleton modeling techniques to create robust and easily modifiable designs.

Develop and implement new CAD capabilities, such as Model-Based Definition (MBD) and Product Manufacturing Information (PMI). Requirements: Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or related engineering degree field with computer-aided engineering experience. 2 years: Experience in design, manufacturing, and/or product development environment.

2 years: Proven proficiency with modern 3D CAD systems, such as CREO or SolidWorks, demonstrated through work, academic, or hobby projects. A valid/clear driver's license is required

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