1

Powertrain Engineer Jobs in Novi, MI (NOW HIRING)

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

MARINE POWERTRAIN DESIGN ENGINEER At Ilmor Engineering, innovation runs as deep as our passion for performance. Proudly named a Crain's Top 100 Places to Work, we pair world‑class engineering with ...

Be Seen First

Long Term Contract Fully On-Site As a Calibration Engineer, you will primarily be responsible for conducting Bench/Vehicle Evaluations and Software Calibration of Powertrain and Thermal Systems, such ...

Role Summary In this role, you will join the Powertrain Engineering team to design, track, and execute robust validation strategies for our next-generation electric vehicle drive units. You will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Powertrain Engineer information

See Novi, MI salary details

$29

$42

$59

How much do powertrain engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineer in Novi, MI is $42.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.56 and $46.25 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.

More about Powertrain Engineer jobs

What are popular job titles related to Powertrain Engineer jobs in Novi, MI?

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

What job categories do people searching Powertrain Engineer jobs in Novi, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Powertrain Engineer jobs in Novi, MI are:

What cities near Novi, MI are hiring for Powertrain Engineer jobs?

Cities near Novi, MI with the most Powertrain Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineer job openings in Novi, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,066 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Powertrain Engineer

MSR Technology Group

Ann Arbor, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

What you bring
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering- Yes/No
  • Strong project management and organization skills 0-2 yrs
  • Software management experience 0-2 years
  • Willingness and ability to travel, domestically as required (~10%). Yes/No
  • Willingness to work overtime (20%) as required. Yes/No
What you may bring
  • Experience with complex system evaluation including sensor instrumentation, data acquisition, and data processing. 0-2yrs 40%
  • Experience joining test trips & collecting vehicle data in the chassis dyno and/or test course. 0-2yrs- 40%
  • Genuine interest in automobiles and basic knowledge of automotive design. Yes/No 10%
  • Experience working in multi-cultural environment- Yes/No 10%