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Powertrain Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ElDorado National California, Inc

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Senior Powertrain Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Senior Powertrain Engineer Location: Riverside, CA Salary Range: $145,000 - $175,000 Position Summary: Responsible for the development of eDrive components for ENC's current and future electric ...

ROUSH

Powertrain Product Engineer II

Allen Park, MI · On-site

The Powertrain Product Engineer II will be responsible for component and sub-system design & release activities within the Powertrain Engineering department. The Powertrain Product Engineer II will ...

Ilmor

Marine Powertrain Design Engineer

New Hudson, MI

$75K/yr

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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How much do powertrain engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineer in the United States is $45.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.11 and $49.28 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, 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 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.

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Powertrain Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,868 per year, or $45.1 per hour.
Project Engineer, Engine and Hybrid Powertrain Development

Project Engineer, Engine and Hybrid Powertrain Development

FEV North America Inc

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description

FEV is a global engineering consultancy providing services within the complete mobility space, including the passenger car and heavy-duty commercial industry. If you are interested in joining a team of experienced engineers developing advanced powertrain systems, that leverage both conventional combustion engines and electrification to address future performance, fuel economy and emissions requirements, FEV is where you want to be.


The Engine, Hybrid and Fuel Cell Powertrains group at FEV North America, Inc is seeking a Project Engineer with specialization in internal combustion engine and hybrid powertrain systems. This Project Engineer position is an opportunity for the right candidate to experience state-of-the-art powertrain technology and get involved in a wide range of development tasks that move application solutions from concept to production.


As a Project Engineer specializing in the development of both conventional and hybrid powertrains, you will be responsible for supporting testing programs that are focused on a wide range of development activities, including calibration, aftertreatment system development, performance evaluation and certification. Additionally, you will be responsible for developing test plans, supporting test cell debug and issue resolution, test execution, data processing and evaluation, and reporting and customer communication. Working with highly motivated individuals from across the globe on a variety of powertrain systems and markets, the Project Engineer will be able to increase their scope of experience with technology used across the globe. This Project Engineer position requires a highly motivated individual with an eagerness to learn and make a positive contribution. 

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Support the installation and commissioning of new powertrain test setups, including conventional combustion engine and hybrid configurations.
  • Support the identification and implementation of necessary connections, measurement points and instrumentation to support testing efforts.
  • Coordinate and execute the testing of engines, aftertreatment systems and powertrain systems on dynamometer or in application.
  • Analysis of measured parameters and system performance relative to project targets.
  • Support the calibration and validation of electronic control unit parameters to satisfy program objectives.
  • Summarize findings and prepare presentations/reports for internal and customer review.
  • Manage customer hardware and project component inventory and logistics.
  • May involve work onsite at customer facilities, vehicle test trips to support ongoing development programs

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering, Electrical/Electronics Engineering or related field, Masters preferred. 
  • 1 to 3 years of experience in engine, vehicle and/or powertrain testing.
  • Strong fundamentals in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and internal combustion engines.
  • Strong knowledge of CI and SI combustion processes.
  • Strong knowledge of aftertreatment systems.
  • Professional communication skills (oral and written English).
  • Must be a motivated team player to perform in fast paced development environment.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Experience using commercially available calibration and development tools (i.e., ETAS INCA, ATI Vision, Vector CANape/CANalyzer, Matlab/Simulink).
  • Exposure to engine and aftertreatment calibration concepts and calibration tools. 
  • Exposure to base engine, aftertreatment and/or hybrid electronic control system strategies, knowledge on software logic implementation and control system functionality.
  • Knowledge of control strategies employed on Bosch and/or GPEC controllers.
  • Knowledge of hybrid powertrain systems.
  • Exposure to US emission regulations and certification test procedures. 
  • Exposure to US OBD regulations and monitoring approaches.
  • Hands-on experience with engine hardware - engine assembly or rebuilding.
  • US citizen or Permanent Residence a plus.

Apply