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Powertrain Engineer Jobs in Novi, MI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Powertrain Engineer information

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How much do powertrain engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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.

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.
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Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineer job openings in Novi, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,066 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Marine Powertrain Design Engineer

Ilmor Engineering

New Hudson, MI • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop high-quality 3D models and 2D drawings of marine powertrain components using SolidWorks.

  • Support mechanical product design and development throughout the full product lifecycle, from concepts to production-ready components.

  • Collaborate with manufacturing teams to transition designs into volume production and support testing, validation, and launch activities.


Job description

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 a collaborative culture where great ideas are encouraged, and excellence is expected. From championship-winning powertrain solutions to cutting-edge marine technology, our teams shape the future of high-performance engineering every day.
We're looking for a Marine Powertrain Design Engineer who's excited to turn bold concepts into production-ready reality. If you're energized by solving complex design challenges, thrive in a hands-on engineering environment, and want your work powering some of the the most powerful boats and fun family experiences the summer can offer, this is your moment to make waves.
Essential Job Functions (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities):
  • Develop high-quality 3D models and 2D drawings of marine powertrain components using SolidWorks, ensuring accuracy, manufacturability, and adherence to engineering standards.
  • Support mechanical product design and development across the full product lifecycle, from early-stage concepts to production-ready components.
  • Evaluate and optimize design alternatives for performance, weight, packaging, quality, benchmarking, geometry creation, and functional requirements.
  • Apply detailed understanding of gasoline engine operation and associated subsystems, including:
  • Exhaust systems
  • Cooling systems (heat exchangers, cooling pumps)
  • Intake systems
  • Electrical and control systems
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of gearboxes/drive systems and their integration with the engine and powertrain.
  • Incorporate strong design-for-manufacturing (DFM) and design-for-assembly (DFA) principles into all work to ensure efficient and cost-effective production.
  • Generate creative, forward-thinking design concepts to support future product development and innovation initiatives.
  • Manage designs from concept through validation and successful production implementation, ensuring alignment with program timing and quality targets.
  • Collaborate closely with the Ilmor Manufacturing Team to transition designs into volume production, resolving issues and supporting production readiness.
  • Support product testing, validation, and launch activities, including documentation and engineering changes as needed.

Required Qualifications
  • Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
  • 1-3+ years of professional experience is highly desired.
  • NOTE: An exceptionally motivated recent college graduate with a Solidworks Certification and prior internship experience may also be considered.
  • Proven experience in mechanical design, preferably within powertrain or related mechanical systems
  • Demonstrated innovative spirit
  • Verifiable SolidWorks capabilities, Certification highly desirable
  • Self-motivated and accountable with strong problem-solving skills
  • Mechanical aptitude/capability
  • Proficient in Solidworks
  • Proficient in GD&T
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills with a team player mentality
  • Quality systems experience (ISO 9001)

Nuts & Bolts
  • FLSA: Exempt (Salaried)
  • Salary Range: $75,000+ based on experience
  • Medical, Dental, Vision: Eligible
  • 401K: 3% Safe Harbor Company Contribution
  • Profit Sharing Annual Bonus: Eligible
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability & Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • General Schedule: M-F 8am - 5pm
  • Paid Time Off
  • Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.