1

Powertrain Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer - NVH

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Works closely with CAE, design, powertrain, chassis, and vehicle integration teams to deliver accurate, repeatable NVH data that supports engineering decision‑making. Job Responsibilities

Sr Engineer - Controls

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$94K - $125K/yr

Our engineering and product innovation help keep soldiers and firefighters safe, is critical in ... Experience testing complex vehicle, mobile equipment, electrification, powertrain, hydraulic, or ...

Sr Engineer - Controls

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$94K - $125K/yr

Our engineering and product innovation help keep soldiers and firefighters safe, is critical in ... Experience testing complex vehicle, mobile equipment, electrification, powertrain, hydraulic, or ...

Engine Controls Engineer IV

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

The Engine Controls Engineer IV plays an important role in advancing the design and performance of ... Experience in powertrain calibration software - ATI/CAN or similar. * Hands-on experience with ATI ...

This Applications Engineer position is based at the Auburn plant and supports approximately $160M ... Industrial Powertrain Solutions, Power Efficiency Solutions, and Automation & Motion Control. Regal ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$78K - $105K/yr

The Electrical Controls Engineer is a key member of the ETE engineering group responsible for the ... Experience with transmission, powertrain, or drivetrain testing. * Experience with testing ...

As a Principal Calibration Engineer on the Engine and Vessel Calibration team you will be ... engine powertrain control and vessel propulsion. Some potential areas of development include ...

This Applications Engineer position is based at the Florence plant and supports approximately $160M ... Industrial Powertrain Solutions, Power Efficiency Solutions, and Automation & Motion Control. Regal ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$76K - $102K/yr

The Electrical Controls Engineer is a key member of the ETE engineering group responsible for the ... Experience with transmission, powertrain, or drivetrain testing. * Experience with testing ...

Sr Engineer - Controls

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Experience testing complex vehicle, mobile equipment, electrification, powertrain, hydraulic, or ... Engineering.Familiarity with HIL platforms such as dSPACE, NI, Vector, ETACORE COMPETENCIES:

Principal Calibration Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$103K - $144K/yr

As a Principal Calibration Engineer on the Engine and Vessel Calibration team you will be ... engine powertrain control and vessel propulsion. Some potential areas of development include ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Kohler, WI · Hybrid

$109K - $142K/yr

Bachelor's of Science in Computer Science/ Electrical Engineering/Mechanical Engineering with an ... Minimum 8 years of experience in automotive, powertrain, or other commercial vehicle application ...

Showing results 21-40

Powertrain Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$31

$45

$64

How much do powertrain engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineer in Wisconsin is $45.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.49 and $49.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

How much do powertrain engineers make in the US?

Powertrain engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior or specialized engineers with advanced skills in CAD, engine design, or control systems can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000 annually.
More about Powertrain Engineer jobs

What are popular job titles related to Powertrain Engineer jobs in Wisconsin?

For Powertrain Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Powertrain Engineer jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Powertrain Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,746 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Test Engineer - NVH

Wauwatosa, WI • On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Auto req ID: 54158 
Title: Test Engineer - NVH 
Job Function: Engineering 
Location: PDC
Workplace Category:Onsite 
Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company 
Full or Part-Time: Full Time 
Shift: SHIFT1 

At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It’s our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley-Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join us?

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra – You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a  Test Engineer - NVH.

Job Summary

Supports noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) testing activities within the Product Development Engineering test lab. Plans and executes NVH tests at the component, system, and vehicle levels in support of product development, validation, quality, and regulatory needs. Works closely with CAE, design, powertrain, chassis, and vehicle integration teams to deliver accurate, repeatable NVH data that supports engineering decision‑making.

Job Responsibilities
  • Executes NVH tests in laboratory and track test environments following established procedures and standards.
  • Installs, configures, and verifies NVH instrumentation including accelerometers, microphones, tachometers, and supporting hardware.
  • Operates NVH data acquisition and analysis systems (e.g., Siemens Testlab) to collect and validate vibration and acoustic data.
  • Processes and analyzes NVH data using standard methods such as FFTs, order tracking, and time‑domain analysis.
  • Prepares clear and timely test reports documenting objectives, setups, results, and conclusions for engineering stakeholders.
  • Supports correlation of laboratory, track, road, and field data under guidance from senior engineers.
  • Troubleshoots test setup, instrumentation, and data quality issues to ensure reliable results.
  • Follows calibration, verification, and documentation practices to maintain test accuracy and traceability.
  • Participates in 5S and Continuous Improvement activities within the NVH test lab.
  • Collaborates with cross‑functional engineering teams to support root cause investigations and design improvements.
Education Requirements
Bachelor's Degree Required
Education Specifications
  • This position requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering with coursework, training, or specialization in NVH, or a Master’s degree with an NVH focus.

Experience Requirements

Required

  • Proficient with NVH data acquisition and analysis fundamentals.
  • Working knowledge of Siemens Testlab or similar NVH software tools.
  • Hands‑on experience with NVH sensors, instrumentation, and test setups.
  • Typically requires 3+ years of related engineering or test lab experience.
  • Ability to execute moderately complex tests with general supervision and direction.

Preferred

  • Experience with automotive or powersports NVH testing.
  • Exposure to engine, transmission, drivetrain, or chassis noise and vibration analysis.
  • Basic knowledge of sound quality evaluation methods.
  • Experience supporting correlation between CAE predictions and physical test results.

The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.

We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here. 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Direct Reports: No  
Travel Required: 0 - 10%  
Pay Range: $74,900 - $112,200
 
Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer  
Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)