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Powertrain Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

As a collaborative team player, you will create impact by working across the Electrified Powertrain Engineering organization and with key stakeholders of the battery business. Experience Required ...

As a collaborative team player, you will create impact by working across the Electrified Powertrain Engineering organization and with key stakeholders of the battery business. Experience Required ...

As a collaborative team player, you will create impact by working across the Electrified Powertrain Engineering organization and with key stakeholders of the battery business. Experience Required ...

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Powertrain Engineering information

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How much do powertrain engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineering in Michigan is $39.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.82 and $42.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Powertrain engineers in the automotive industry can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and simulation tools, and working for major manufacturers or in senior roles. High compensation often correlates with specialization, leadership positions, or working in regions with higher living costs.

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 a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools (such as MATLAB/Simulink), and industry standards is commonly required, along with certifications like FE or PE being advantageous. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and drive innovation. These skills ensure the development of efficient, reliable, and regulatory-compliant powertrain systems essential for modern vehicles.

What does a powertrain engineer do?

A powertrain engineer designs, develops, and tests components of a vehicle's powertrain system, including engines, transmissions, and drivetrains. They analyze performance data, improve efficiency, and ensure compliance with safety and emissions standards, often using CAD software and testing facilities. Strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems is essential for this role.

What is powertrain engineering?

Powertrain engineering is a specialized field of automotive engineering focused on the design, development, and integration of the systems that generate power and deliver it to the road, such as engines, transmissions, drivetrains, and related components. Powertrain engineers work to optimize performance, efficiency, and emissions of vehicles, including traditional internal combustion engines as well as hybrid and electric powertrains. Their work is crucial for advancing vehicle technology, meeting regulatory standards, and improving overall driving experience.

What engineers make $500,000?

Powertrain engineers in senior or executive roles, especially those working in automotive or aerospace industries, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills in design and testing, and often involve leadership responsibilities or specialized expertise. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

What are the typical challenges faced by powertrain engineers when working on new vehicle models?

Powertrain engineers often encounter challenges balancing performance, fuel efficiency, emissions compliance, and cost when developing powertrains for new vehicle models. They must work closely with cross-functional teams—such as design, testing, and manufacturing—to ensure that the powertrain integrates seamlessly with the overall vehicle architecture. Keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, such as electrification and hybrid systems, also requires ongoing learning and adaptability. Additionally, meeting tight project deadlines while managing complex simulations and prototype testing can be demanding but rewarding.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Powertrain engineers in the automotive and aerospace industries can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and simulation tools, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in senior or managerial positions, or in companies with a focus on high-performance or luxury vehicles.

What is the difference between Powertrain Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectPowertrain EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Mechanical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentAutomotive or aerospace industries, R&D labs, manufacturing plantsVarious industries including manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and product design
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive OEMs, suppliers, motorsport teamsBroad industry applications across sectors

Powertrain Engineering focuses specifically on designing and developing vehicle propulsion systems, such as engines and transmissions, primarily in the automotive industry. Mechanical Engineering is a broader field covering various mechanical systems and devices across multiple industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Powertrain Engineers specialize in vehicle propulsion, whereas Mechanical Engineers work on a wider range of mechanical systems.

What are popular job titles related to Powertrain Engineering jobs in Michigan? For Powertrain Engineering jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain Engineering jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain Engineering jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Powertrain Engineering jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Powertrain Engineering job openings:

Engineering Manager - Powertrain Testing Laboratory

Hyundai Motor Company

Superior Township, MI

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Engineering Manager - Powertrain Testing Laboratory

The Company

Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center, Inc. ("HATCI") is the North American headquarter of Hyundai Motor Company's R&D, serving the North American market needs of Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands. HATCI's activities include product planning, design, quality, testing/evaluation, new technology development and innovation for vehicle systems. In addition to the Michigan HQ, HATCI also operates engineering test & development facilities and proving ground in California.

Our Team

Powertrain Testing Lab is the Engineering Departments Electrified Propulsion Test (ePST) division at HATCI. PTL focuses on testing for energy efficiency, durability, and performance improvement of Hyundai/Kia/Genesis propulsion.

The Position

HATCI is currently seeking an Engineering Manager - Powertrain Testing Laboratory (PTL) for our Superior Township, MI facility (near Ann Arbor). This position will lead a team of Engineers and Technicians in the testing of new vehicle propulsion technology and the validation of new vehicle propulsion hardware. Work with and support all Powertrain team members (calibration, certification, and manufacturing) to accomplish the project targets. Collaborate with internal and external teams (Design, Vehicle Evaluation, & Planning) to support the strategic goals established by the Hyundai/Kia senior management.

This position reports to ePST Department's Sr. Manager.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

 Core Responsibilities

  • Understand ICE and EV/HEV applications from system to components.
  • Responsible specifically for lab components such as the dyno controller, dyno, high power and high voltage power supply, thermal management systems/chambers, data acquisition system and dyno mechanical setup/alignment.
  • Vehicle propulsion dyno validation supporting manufacturing and quality of new vehicle propulsion technology and NAFTA content.
  • Conducting competitive assessments and benchmarking of new vehicle propulsion technologies, defining how competitive technologies work, and providing recommendations on how these types of concepts could be applied.
  • Provide supplier support (product engineering perspective) to aid in the manufacturing and quality issues of components and systems.
  • Support manufacturing to assure supplier readiness for production.
  • Manage teams focused on vehicle propulsion mapping, calibration, and development of current production as well as R&D projects.
  • Manage, train, evaluate, discipline, and make recommendations for hire, pay changes, promotions, or terminations.
  • Perform administrative functions such as completing purchasing requests, and approvals of timecards, vacation requests, travel requests, etc.
  • Provide planning and monitoring of department budget and fixed assets as well as establishing requirements for future years.
  • Lead, motivate, and mentor team members.
  • Collaborate and coordinate activities with other staff members (Engineers/ Managers) and overseas R&D.
  • Issue bi-weekly reports to management staff and project summary reports to top management.
  • Track project timing and status to targets based on established project deliverables.
  • Collaborate with other HATCI and Korean development teams, share information, generate execution plans, and manage the project deliverables including project targets and timing.
  • Participate in meetings with preferred test system component suppliers.
  • Interface with suppliers to review system and component functional requirements and ensure alignment with specific requirements.
  • Travel up to 10% (Domestic and International).
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

Core Capabilities

  • History of strong project leadership and a proven track record for timely project delivery and project management
  • Experience and detailed understanding of vehicle propulsion systems, propulsion system operation, interactions and performance under various driving conditions, and calibration/control of propulsion systems for simulation of vehicle/propulsion system.
  • Effective communication and people skills to develop/keep good relationships with tech experts from R&D Center and counterpart teams.

 

Basic Qualifications

  • A.S. or B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or other related fields.
  • 8+ years of automotive testing experience.
  • 2+ years of project management experience.
  • Knowledge in vehicle propulsion/powertrain principle/operation and propulsion control system.
  • A proven history of engineering projects related to development, testing or simulation of vehicle propulsion/powertrain systems.
  • Knowledge of standardized vehicle test procedures such as EPA, and SAE.
  • Good written, oral communication and people skills.
  • Valid Driver's License with satisfactory driving record.

 

Preferred Qualifications

  • 2+ years of people management experience (as an supervisor or a manager).
  • 2+ years of experience managing a test lab.
WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU
  • Zero-dollar employee premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for you and your family
  • 100% employer-paid disability and life insurance
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, sick and abundant holidays
  • A global environment that fosters diversity
  • Competitive salaries
  • Retirement savings and planning benefits
  • Access to health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts
  • Opportunity to shape the success of a growing R&D organization
  • Direct exposure to senior leadership and strategic initiatives
  • High-impact role with visible results
OTHER DETAILS
  • Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
  • HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.
STILL INTERESTED? WHY NOT APPLY?