ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Powertrain Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Aep

Engineer Assc - Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$74K - $128K/yr

Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required ...

Holder Construction

Engineer

Ashburn, VA

About the Role We are looking for an MEP Engineer to join our MEP team on our project in Ashburn, VA. This is a full-time, in-person position. Key Responsibilities * Communicate with electrical and ...

Crestline Hotels and Resorts

Engineer

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The ultimate mission of the hospitality Engineering team will be to ensure our guests' satisfaction by exceeding their expectations. The position is primarily responsible for maintaining the building ...

Bowhead

Engineer

King George, VA · On-site

Overview Engineer (H40-2026-25251) Bowhead seeks a Engineer to support a newly awarded contract in Dahlgren, VA. This contract will provide configuration management (CM), logistics, mechanical and ...

USAJOBS - Search

General Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA

$70K/yr

To qualify for a General Engineer, your resume and supporting documentation must support: A. Basic Requirement: A bachelor's degree or higher in professional engineering. To be acceptable, the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPowertrain Engineer JobsPowertrain Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Powertrain Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$30

$44

$63

How much do powertrain engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineer in Virginia is $44.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.77 and $48.85 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 the most commonly searched types of Powertrain Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Powertrain Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Powertrain Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Powertrain Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Powertrain Engineer jobs in VA? For Powertrain Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Powertrain Engineer jobs near you
Engineer - Diver (49119)

Engineer - Diver (49119)

Collins Engineers, Inc

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.

Collins Engineers, Inc. is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Engineer Diver to join our team in Fairfax, Virginia. This is a unique opportunity to combine engineering expertise with underwater exploration, contributing to projects that ensure the safety and longevity of critical infrastructure. The ideal candidate will play a key role in waterfront and underwater bridge inspections and related engineering tasks, gaining valuable hands-on experience while working in a collaborative, employee-focused environment.


Typical Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Performs waterfront and underwater and topside bridge inspections.
  • Assists in the completion of inspection and assessment reports. 
  • Reviews and interprets plans and design drawings.
  • Documents findings and assists in the completion of inspection and assessment reports.
  • Supports the development of recommendations for maintenance or repairs. 
  • Collaborates with senior engineers/technicians on inspections.
  • Uses computer-assisted engineering and design software to prepare project deliverables.
  • Communicates effectively with engineering teams and project stakeholders.
  • Actively observes and acts in an appropriate manner related to safety.
  • Requires some travel (mostly regional). 
  • Participates in training programs to enhance inspection skills. 
  • Other duties may be assigned.

*Relocation is available

Click HERE to see the variety of benefits that Collins has to offer. 

Education and/or Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field from an accredited four-year university plus appropriate continuing education.
  • 0-5 years of experience. 
  • Engineer-In-Training (E.I.T.) or ability to obtain within one year. 
  • Open water diving experience required.
  • ADCI certification preferred.

Physical Demands:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee frequently is required to talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus

Apply