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Powertrain Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$60K - $95K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Support manufacturing and assembly operations for engines, powertrain systems, cast components, and ...

Quality/Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Support quality, validation, and testing activities for engine, powertrain, and off-highway ...

Mechanical Engineer - Purchased Components & Product Health (Electrified Powertrain) This Mechanical Engineer role supports the Purchased Finished and Product Health team, focusing on components used ...

Mechanical Engineer - Purchased Components & Product Health (Electrified Powertrain) This Mechanical Engineer role supports the Purchased Finished and Product Health team, focusing on components used ...

Test Engineer

Hillside, IL · On-site

$65K - $120K/yr

... and powertrain parts. The Test Engineer is expected to have a demonstrable understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical, and electrical concepts. They should also be able to analyze test ...

Mechanical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... powertrain, and machine systems. Projects may include diesel and natural gas engines, axles, drives ...

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Powertrain Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$30

$43

$61

How much do powertrain engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineer in Illinois is $43.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.86 and $47.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Powertrain Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during the vehicle development process?

Powertrain Engineers work closely with a variety of teams, including electrical, software, chassis, and manufacturing engineers, to ensure the integration and performance of the powertrain system within the overall vehicle architecture. Collaboration often involves regular meetings, cross-functional design reviews, and troubleshooting sessions to address interface issues and optimize system efficiency. Effective communication skills and a proactive approach are essential, as Powertrain Engineers must coordinate requirements, resolve conflicts, and align project timelines with other departments throughout the development cycle.

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

To thrive as a Powertrain Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, with expertise in powertrain systems and vehicle dynamics, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, and knowledge of emissions and fuel efficiency standards are important, as is experience with testing equipment. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and address complex engineering challenges. These skills ensure you can design, develop, and optimize powertrain systems that meet performance, regulatory, and customer requirements.

What is the difference between Powertrain Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPowertrain EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Aerospace Engineering; often requires experience in vehicle systemsBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering; broad engineering background
Work EnvironmentAutomotive or aerospace industries, R&D labs, manufacturing plantsManufacturing, product design, R&D across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery sectorsWidely used across multiple industries including automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing

Powertrain Engineers focus on designing and developing vehicle propulsion systems, including engines and transmissions, mainly in automotive and aerospace sectors. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across industries. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Powertrain Engineers specialize in vehicle propulsion, whereas Mechanical Engineers work on diverse mechanical projects.

What does a Powertrain Engineer do?

A Powertrain Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and improving the components that make up a vehicle’s powertrain system, such as the engine, transmission, driveline, and related electronics. They work to optimize performance, efficiency, and emissions, ensuring that vehicles meet regulatory standards and customer expectations. Powertrain Engineers collaborate with other engineering teams, use simulation tools, and often participate in prototype testing to refine their designs. Their work is essential in both traditional internal combustion and electric/hybrid vehicle systems.

What Does a Powertrain Engineer Do?

A powertrain engineer works in the automotive industry to design transportation, such as cars, motorbikes, or commercial vehicles. In this career, you focus on the aesthetics and technical performance of powertrain components as well as the electronics and software used in modern vehicles. Your job duties include calculating project budgets and timescales, building prototypes and conducting tests, interpreting data, finding high-quality materials to use, and conducting research on parts. You are also responsible for answering client questions and complying with their needs. Qualifications for this career include an engineering degree and experience with design.

More about Powertrain Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Powertrain Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Powertrain Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,960 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Powertrain Application Engineer

Fiat Powertrain Technologies of North America, Inc.

Willowbrook, IL • On-site

$80K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Fiat Powertrain Technologies of North America, Inc. (a global Brand under our parent company, Iveco Group) is looking for a Powertrain Application Engineer to join our team! The Powertrain Application Engineer performs testing on engines and vehicles to validate new Fiat Powertrain Engine applications and provides technical advice to the brand team to develop and successfully implement product or service solutions that will meet the customer's needs. This is a salary-exempt position.

Internal candidates MUST notify their HR Department before applying. Position will be located in Burr Ridge, Illinois testing lab facility.

Our flexible work arrangements policy requires employees to work in the office 12 days per month.

Responsibilities Include:

  • Perform vehicle testing per application sign-off documents. Complete testing reports and sign-off documents in a timely manner.
  • Participate with functional groups and engineers in maintaining application and certification requirements in support of product launch milestones.
  • Develop, evaluate, and review integration and installation procedures and standards to ensure that work is of a consistently high quality.
  • Evaluate project proposals to ensure they are technically accurate, consistent with the organization's quality and product standards, and aligned with the organization's overall strategy for its products and services.
  • Liaise with hardware, software, and systems design engineers to ensure that products are modified, configured, and installed according to customer needs.
  • Prepare simple technical documentation to guide system users and to assist with the ongoing operation, maintenance, and development of the system.
  • Coordinate testing activities with the customer and supporting team members as necessary.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally (50%).
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering and three or more years of experience in engine or equipment engineering.
  • Powertrain engineering experience a plus.

Preferred qualifications:

  • Experience testing diesel engines, including use of industry standard tools: Inca, MatLab, CANalyzer
  • Vehicle integration
  • OBD-related testing
  • Engine and equipment testing and data review
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Detail oriented

Physical Requirements:

  • 50% travel by airplane and car
  • Critical thinking to write thorough and detailed reports
  • Sitting for long periods of time
  • Using a computer for long periods of time
  • Able to lift +/- 5Ibs.

Working with a global company offers competitive benefits for this position. Here are just a few benefits we are proud to offer:

  • Immediate medical, dental and vision coverage on date of hire
  • Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave
  • Stellantis vehicle discount program
  • Tuition assistance
  • Employee Resource Groups
  • Flexible Paid Time Off
  • Amazing holiday schedule including shutdown between Christmas and New Year's
  • Generous 401k match
  • Potential opportunities to visit our Global HQ in Turin, Italy

About our Salary Ranges

Please note that our salary range mentioned in this job description should serve simply as a guide. The final compensation offered may vary based on a variety of factors, including bonuses and/or incentives, or a candidate’s experience, skills, budget and location. Our company is committed to providing a fair, equitable, and competitive package that reflects the value an individual brings to the organization.

EEO Statement

US applicants: Fiat Powertrain Technologies of North America, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. This company considers candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Applicants can learn more about their rights by viewing the Federal "EEO is the Law" poster and its supplement at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/posters. Fiat Powertrain Technologies of North America, Inc participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. You can view additional information https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/posters.