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Powertrain Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Characteristics/Skills All Subcontractor engineers assigned to this project are required to meet the minimum qualifications described in the Engineering Services MTA; between Collins Aerospace and ...

Characteristics/Skills All Subcontractor engineers assigned to this project are required to meet the minimum qualifications described in the Engineering Services MTA; between Collins Aerospace and ...

We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing value for our clients through IT automation and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life ...

We're seeking a Full-Stack AI Engineer to help scale our next-generation AI capabilities across sales, marketing, finance, risk management, product development, claims, and enterprise productivity.

As an Engineer III you will be responsible for assisting in the production and modification of design calculations, technical reports, engineering plans, and specifications for ITS, Transit, Traffic ...

We're seeking a Full-Stack AI Engineer to help scale our next-generation AI capabilities across sales, marketing, finance, risk management, product development, claims, and enterprise productivity.

Senior Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$103K - $141K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - Senior Engineer The primary purpose of this position is to perform project engineering activities including the design, procurement, installation, commissioning, and start-up ...

Senior Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Review engineering work of others. * Perform engineering analysis using company and industry methodologies. * Make geotechnical recommendations and prepares engineering reports for senior review.

Senior Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - Senior Engineer The primary purpose of this position is to perform project engineering activities including the design, procurement, installation, commissioning, and start-up ...

Senior Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Review engineering work of others. * Perform engineering analysis using company and industry methodologies. * Make geotechnical recommendations and prepares engineering reports for senior review.

Senior Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$103K - $141K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - Senior Engineer The primary purpose of this position is to perform project engineering activities including the design, procurement, installation, commissioning, and start-up ...

Senior Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

We're growing and looking for a Senior Building Automation Engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, designing innovative control solutions, and collaborating with talented engineers ...

Municipal Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Municipal Engineer Department: Civil Employment Type: Full Time Location: Des Moines, IA Compensation: $75,000 - $150,000 / year Description Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi-disciplinary, full-service ...

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Showing results 1-20

Powertrain Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$29

$42

$60

How much do powertrain engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineer in Iowa is $42.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.61 and $46.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often include bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing that contribute to total compensation.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Powertrain engineers in the automotive and aerospace industries can reach annual salaries of $300,000 or more, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves specialized skills in engine design, systems integration, and working in companies with competitive pay structures or in senior management positions.

What does a powertrain engineer do?

A powertrain engineer designs, develops, and tests components of vehicle propulsion systems, including engines, transmissions, and drivetrains. They analyze performance data, use CAD software, and ensure systems meet safety and efficiency standards, often working closely with manufacturing and testing teams.

How much do powertrain engineers get paid?

Powertrain engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in engine design or control systems can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $130,000 annually.

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

Engineer I, Engineer II, Engineer III Grid Planning

Alliantenergy

Cedar Rapids, IA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Bring YOUR energy to Alliant Energy!

At Alliant Energy, our purpose is to serve customers and build stronger communities. We are passionate about powering beyond the market challenges of today, while powering what's next in energy. When our employees say "I am energy", it means they take pride in the work we do when disaster strikes, as well as all the days in between. We want you to be safe, happy and healthy. That's why we prioritize safety, offer volunteer opportunities and provide competitive pay, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement and paid time off.

Engineer I - Grid Planning, Engineer II - Grid Planning, Engineer III - Grid Planning:

From early-career engineers to seasoned planning leaders, we're building our Grid Planning team-join us at the level that fits your experience and help design the grid of tomorrow.


***This position can be hired as either an Engineer I Grid Planning, Engineer II Grid Planning or an Engineer III Grid Planning depending on experience***

What you will do

  • What You Will Do (Developmental Progression)

    Safety, Risk & Compliance

    • Foundational: Learns and follows safety standards; develops awareness of risk and regulatory requirements.

    • Intermediate: Identifies and mitigates unsafe conditions, applies risk methodologies, and interprets regulations to address system issues.

    • Advanced: Leads safety and compliance efforts, proactively mitigates complex risks, and influences standards and practices.

    Customer Focus & Problem Solving

    • Foundational: Learns customer needs and supports identification of basic issues and solutions.

    • Intermediate: Proactively identifies and resolves moderately complex problems aligned to customer needs.

    • Advanced: Anticipates needs and leads resolution of complex system and operational challenges.

    Communication, Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

    • Foundational: Builds relationships and develops communication skills with support.

    • Intermediate: Communicates technical concepts clearly, facilitates discussions, and collaborates across teams.

    • Advanced: Leads stakeholder engagement, influences decisions, and drives alignment across functions.

    Technical Application, Standards & Continuous Improvement

    • Foundational: Applies engineering standards and processes to solve routine problems with guidance.

    • Intermediate: Applies standards independently and recommends process improvements.

    • Advanced: Leads technical direction, shapes standards, and drives continuous improvement initiatives.

    Planning, Financial & Work Management

    • Foundational: Learns budgeting, planning, and basic financial concepts (capital vs. O&M).

    • Intermediate: Supports budgeting and multi-year planning; develops moderately complex scopes of work with cost, sequencing, and prioritization.

    • Advanced: Leads planning and budgeting efforts, manages complex scopes, and guides investment decisions.

    Systems Analysis, Modeling & Technical Studies

    • Foundational: Learns system modeling tools and performs basic analyses with support.

    • Intermediate: Builds moderately complex models and supports technical studies, including interconnection and power quality.

    • Advanced: Leads complex system analysis, modeling, and technical decision-making.

    Agreements, Projects & Organizational Contribution

    • Foundational: Develops understanding of agreements, project processes, and team roles.

    • Intermediate: Supports development of agreements, contributes to cross-functional work, and executes moderately complex projects.

    • Advanced: Leads agreement development, cross-functional initiatives, and delivers strategic outcomes aligned to organizational goals.

Requirements:

Engineer III Grid Planning:

  • Bachelor's Degree Engineering program that is accredited through the Engineering Accreditation Commission Required

  • 5 years of related experience


Engineer II Grid Planning:

  • Bachelor's Degree Engineering program that is accredited through the Engineering Accreditation Commission Required

  • 2 years of related experience

Engineer I Grid Planning:

  • Bachelor's Degree Engineering program that is accredited through the Engineering Accreditation Commission Required

Preferred Experience:

  • Project management experience, along with ability to deal with subcontractors and cross-functional teams; may have expertise in a particular area of the discipline.

  • Previous technical and/or professional experience

  • An internship or co-op in engineering

Key Skills

  • Cost Optimization Data Analysis Feasibility Studies Grid Interconnection Studies Power Engineering Power Flow Analysis and Modeling Power Systems Performance Monitoring Power Systems Planning Short Circuit Simulation and Analysis Standards Compliance Transient Analysis


Our people are passionate about what they do, the product they sell, and the customers they serve. If you're looking for an opportunity to be a part of a work family that values collaboration, innovation and dedication, we're the right company for you.

Alliant Energy offers a comprehensive total rewards package including competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information on these benefit programs is available on our Careers site.

Pay Range:

This position is eligible to participate in the annual incentive program. The final salary offered will generally fall within this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to the responsibilities of the position, experience, skill set, internal pay equity and other relevant qualifications of the applicant.

It's not just what we do; it's how we do it.

Live Safety. Everyone. Always | Make Things Better | Care For Others | Do The Right Thing | Act For Tomorrow | Think Beyond. Be Bold

Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries are committed to creating a culture of belonging and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by law.

All candidates selected for employment with Alliant Energy will be required to successfully complete a background check, and a drug screen where applicable.

Disclaimer:
The above information on this description has been crafted to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not crafted to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Applicants in need of a reasonable accommodation for any part of the hiring process, please email talent@alliantenergy.com.