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Powertrain Engineering Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

SAPA Transmission

Powertrain Engineer

Utica, MI · On-site

Validate analytical predictions using test data, simulation tools, and cross-functional engineering ... Develop and maintain powertrain analysis tools, models, and best practices. * Contribute to ...

SAPA Transmission

Powertrain Engineer

Utica, MI · On-site

Validate analytical predictions using test data, simulation tools, and cross-functional engineering ... Develop and maintain powertrain analysis tools, models, and best practices. * Contribute to ...

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

This role will be located at Rivian's Plymouth, MI engineering offices, with expected travel to ... Lead powertrain NVH development across electric drive units, including electric motors, gearboxes ...

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI

This role will be located at Rivian's Plymouth, MI engineering offices, with expected travel to ... Lead powertrain NVH development across electric drive units, including electric motors, gearboxes ...

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

This role will be located at Rivian's Plymouth, MI engineering offices, with expected travel to ... Lead powertrain NVH development across electric drive units, including electric motors, gearboxes ...

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All JobsPowertrain Engineering JobsPowertrain Engineering Jobs in Detroit, MI

Powertrain Engineering information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$30

$44

$63

How much do powertrain engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineering in Detroit, MI is $44.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.67 and $48.80 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 Detroit, MI? For Powertrain Engineering jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain Engineering jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain Engineering jobs in Detroit, MI are:
Powertrain Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineering job openings in Detroit, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,926 per year, or $44.7 per hour.
Powertrain Engineer

Powertrain Engineer

SAPA Transmission

Utica, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 hours ago

Job description

SAPA Transmission, a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) contractor, is seeking a Powertrain Engineer to support the modeling, simulation, and system-level integration of the Advanced Combat Transmission (ACT) across a wide range of vehicle architectures.

This role serves as a technical subject-matter expert for analytical activities, concept evaluations, and customer-focused solution studies involving multiple engine configurations, hybridization strategies, and mission profiles. The ideal candidate combines deep powertrain systems expertise with strong analytical, communication, and customer-engagement skills.

Join a team developing advanced drivetrain technology for military applications and play a direct role in improving the mobility, performance, and reliability of next-generation combat vehicles.


Why Join SAPA Transmission?

✔ Support next-generation U.S. military vehicle programs

✔ Work on advanced transmission and powertrain technologies

✔ Collaborate directly with OEM and defense customers

✔ Influence vehicle architectures, integration strategies, and analytical development

✔ Competitive benefits, retirement contributions, and growth opportunities

Responsibilities
  • Develop concept-level powertrain architectures utilizing various engine technologies, including diesel, gasoline, hybrid, turbine, and alternative fuels.
  • Design prototype powerpacks including heat exchanger sizing and selection, fan and fan drive sizing and selection, final drive ratio and PTO power definition.
  • Develop and maintain vehicle-level powertrain models (1D, multi-physics, and control-oriented) to evaluate ACT transmission integration.
  • Perform performance, efficiency, thermal, durability, and drivability analyses across diverse vehicle platforms.
  • Conduct trade studies comparing engine configurations, torque curves, gear ratios, cooling strategies, and system boundaries.
  • Validate analytical predictions using test data, simulation tools, and cross-functional engineering inputs.
  • Prepare and present technical analyses, performance projections, and integration assessments to OEM and defense customers.
  • Serve as a key technical contact supporting customer powertrain integration inquiries.
  • Support business development efforts through technical input for proposals, technical responses, and feasibility assessments.
  • Provide technical guidance to vehicle OEMs on ACT packaging, mounting, lubrication, cooling loops, and control system interfaces.
  • Mentor junior engineers through technical guidance in modeling, simulation, and powertrain analysis.
  • Develop and maintain powertrain analysis tools, models, and best practices.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance integration efficiency and analytical accuracy.
  • Other duties as assigned.
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience in powertrain systems engineering, vehicle integration, or transmission/engine modeling.
  • Strong expertise with modeling tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Creo, Siemens NX, or equivalent.
  • Deep understanding of internal combustion engines, vehicle dynamics, drivelines, and control systems.
  • Demonstrated experience performing tradeoff analyses, concept studies, and customer-facing technical presentations.
  • Ability to interpret complex data, lead technical discussions, and provide clear recommendations.
  • Experience with military/defense vehicle systems or heavy-duty powertrains.
Preferred
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Knowledge of hybrid-electric powertrain integration and control strategy development.
  • Familiarity with thermal modeling, NVH, and durability prediction techniques.
Benefits
  • 6% Retirement Plan Contribution by SAPA Transmission (regardless of employee contribution to the 401(k) plan)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Sick Time
  • Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance with minimal employee contribution
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability



SAPA Transmission is an Equal Opportunity Employer




This position requires regular on-site attendance at our facility and is not a remote or hybrid role. Candidates must be able to work on-site during scheduled hours.