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Powertrain Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 Sep 1, 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.

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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Powertrain Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,868 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Powertrain Systems & Diagnostics Engineer

Singer Vehicle Design

Torrance, CA • On-site

$86K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Join Our Relentless Pursuit of Excellence
At Singer Vehicle Design, we believe Everything is Important. That's why every nut, bolt, stitch, and finish matters when we restore and reimagine Porsche 911s into some of the most beautiful and respected cars in the world.
We're looking for a Powertrain Systems & Diagnostics Engineer to bring their passion and attention to detail to our team in Torrance, CA. If you share our passion for beautiful cars, thrive on details, and want to be part of something extraordinary, this is your chance.
Why You'll Love This Role:
  • Perform high performance engine calibration, tuning, and data analysis for Singer's engine and powertrain projects and programs in a manner that demonstrates, "Everything is Important."

What You'll Do:
  • Diagnose and root cause powertrain issues and apply corrective actions.
  • Review data logs and telemetry from multiple sources for performance tracking and issue diagnostics on development cars as well as in the field.
  • Develop, document, and implement test procedures for engine calibration and performance development, including releasing process
  • Strong knowledge of internal combustion engine fundamentals
  • Provide guidance on test reports to help create and review for production planning
  • Read and understand electrical pin out diagrams and schematics as part of root causing.
  • Support engine dyno, chassis dyno, on-road drive tuning as well as track testing activities
  • Support and maintain ECU and PDM programming and functionality
  • Interface with cross-functional teams to support powertrain performance and software testing, validation and systems integration
  • Self-motivated and able to perform tasks and projects with little supervision
  • Occasional travel to support testing, certification work and track events

Who We're Looking For:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or relevant field
  • 1-3 years of experience of related experience in systems engineering, advanced technical diagnostics, test validation, or control systems engineering
  • Strong fundamental understanding of internal combustion engine operations and electrical systems.
  • Experience working with professional data acquisition, telemetry, or control software tools (e.g., MoTeC, ETAS INCA, Emtron, PCAN, MATLAB or equivalent logging software).
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced high-pressure environment
  • Ability to work effectively in a small group of focused and talented engineers
  • Experience working with sensors and sensor interfaces with good understanding of electrical principles.
  • Understanding of in-vehicle engine calibration and verification support of ongoing development programs
  • Experience with data analysis and interpretation
  • Team oriented, with a strong ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment to meet multiple deadlines
  • Excellent time management with an ability to balance multiple projects and timelines
  • Bonus points for experience with Porsche air cooled engines
  • Bonus points for broad experience with emissions tuning as well as an understanding of preliminary requirements, including CARB and EURO standards
  • Bonus points for strong experience with professional engine control and data acquisition systems, hardware, and software tools

Location & Schedule:
This position is based onsite in Torrance, CA. This is an exempt role, with the general schedule as Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4pm.
What We Offer - Benefits Driven by You:
The starting pay range for this position is between $86,953 - 108,691 plus bonus. Actual compensation will be determined by skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
Our mantra Everything is Important guides us every day, so naturally we also believe Everyone is Important. Our benefits and perks are thoughtfully curated to invest in the well-being, growth, and long-term success of our team both inside and outside the shop.
Health & Wellness
  • 80% employer-covered medical, dental, and vision premiums for employees and family with choices for HMO & PPO plans
  • Tax-free savings options via HSA and FSA, including employer HSA contributions
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage

Time Off & Flexibility
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 13 paid holidays annually, including the week between Christmas and New Year's

Financial Benefits
  • Annual bonus plan
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Annual merit increases following performance reviews (when eligible)
  • Monthly cell phone reimbursement

Perks & Extras
  • Free snacks! (monthly snack stipend at our mini-mart)
  • "Working Advantage" employee discount program for travel, entertainment, amusement parks, and more
  • Tools provided for technicians
  • Team events and company gatherings throughout the year
  • Discounted pet insurance through MetLife
  • Employee-led clubs based on interest: books, movies and (of course) cars!
  • Access to exclusive Singer-branded merch!

Growth & Development
  • Annual performance reviews to provide feedback and aid employee development
  • Ongoing learning and development opportunities
  • Access to Singer's learning platform (Singer Learn) containing over 115,000 courses on a wide variety of topics - coming soon!
  • Transparent leadership communication through quarterly town halls

Equal Employment Opportunity
We are committed to building a team that includes individuals from different cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, ages, sexual orientation, and physical abilities, reflecting the diversity of the communities where we work and live.
Do you want to Reimagine your career? Apply now and join us!

Apply