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Powertrain Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

WesTech Engineering

Project Engineer 2

Ames, IA · On-site

Summary Project Engineer 2 is an intermediate level working in a developing capacity with increased responsibilities performing a range of duties with core members of the engineering team and a key ...

WesTech Engineering

Project Engineer 2

Ames, IA · On-site +1

Summary Project Engineer 2 is an intermediate level working in a developing capacity with increased responsibilities performing a range of duties with core members of the engineering team and a key ...

McClure Engineering Co

Senior Traffic Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

Description: Senior Traffic Engineer (Senior PE) McClure is currently searching for a skilled Senior Traffic Engineer to help live our mission of Making Lives Better through our growing ...

FIT Midwest

Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Our Engineers work together on all levels of challenges across dozens of clients, which provides each engineer full exposure to different environments and projects. We offer an industry leading ...

FIT Solutions

Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Engineer Reports To: Principal Engineer Status: Regular, Full-Time, Exempt Location: Des Moines, IA - Hybrid POSITION SUMMARY Our culture is performance-oriented, goals driven, collaborative and fun.

FIT Midwest

Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Engineer Reports To : Principal Engineer Status : Regular, Full-Time, Exempt Location : Des Moines, IA - Hybrid POSITION SUMMARY Our culture is performance-oriented, goals driven, collaborative and ...

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Powertrain Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$29

$42

$60

How much do powertrain engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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.

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?

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
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What are popular job titles related to Powertrain Engineer jobs in IA? For Powertrain Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Powertrain Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,167 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Project Engineer 2

WesTech Engineering

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

WesTech Engineering rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 446 rated engineering

Job description

Our mission at WesTech is to help communities thrive by delivering high-quality water solutions with superior service - safely and sustainably. To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services and more.
As one of the leading operating brands of Swire Water, our values of integrity, humility, endeavor, excellence and continuity make this an outstanding working environment. Our continuing success creates attractive opportunities for purpose-driven professionals to develop new skills, support vital industries, and grow their careers.
Summary
Project Engineer 2 is an intermediate level working in a developing capacity with increased responsibilities performing a range of duties with core members of the engineering team and a key part of project teams. They have a basic understanding of WesTech products, and they possess the engineering skills to complete the common design work which will be peer reviewed in accordance with company procedures. Day-to-day work activities will be focused on supporting production work through completing design calculations and clearly communicating the completed design to internal customers and external customers when required.
Some of the work you will do:
  • Execute engineering deliverables using common methodologies, procedures, and practices to ensure designs are congruent with national and local standards and codes
  • Perform common design tasks and calculations for several projects at a time
  • Receive and incorporate comments and changes to designs including adjusting work practices where necessary
  • Prepare and review technical reports when required
  • Provide complete and clear design packages for use by internal and external customers
  • Reviews and stamps calculations and drawings (where applicable)
  • Focused on expanding experience and proficiency in applicable products, with solid understanding of relevant design practices
  • Creates good designs that meet company best practices, customer requirements and industry standards
  • Mastering ability to break down tasks, plan, estimate and manage work to meet or beat project deadline
  • Collaborates professionally with teammates and peers.
  • Communicates clearly at team events, clarifying requirements and sharing areas of concern

Here are the skills that you need:
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in the following disciplines:

    • Civil/Structural Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering

  • Experience: Generally at least 1 year or more of related experience
  • Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) certification or able to obtain within 6 months of the start date (if relevant to area of discipline)
  • Strong math skills, specifically trigonometry and geometry, understanding of chemistry and physics
  • Excellent computer skills: MS Word, Excel, and other Windows applications
  • Detail oriented, well organized
  • Strong communication skills
  • Self-motivated with detailed and complete follow-through

Here are the skills and qualifications that will set you apart:
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or Structural Engineer (SE) license or able to obtain within 6 months of the start date (if relevant to area of discipline)
  • Knowledge of software such as Mathcad, Inventor, STAAD, Plant 3D, and/or Navisworks as relevant to area of discipline
  • Knowledge of design codes such as AISC, ASCE, ACI as they apply to steel structures.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to use a workstation using computer/phone
  • Some lifting may be involved (up to 40 lbs.)

Benefits and perks we offer:
  • Competitive salary and performance-based annual bonuses.
  • Dollar for dollar 401K match of 6%.
  • Flexible work hours, hybrid schedules with remote work options.
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package with an on-site medical facility
  • Company HSA contribution, Paid Parental Leave, Employee Assistance Program
  • Company-paid Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and Long-term Disability.
  • PTO plan and Paid Holidays.
  • Tuition Reimbursement.
  • Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

WesTech considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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