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Powertrain Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 · 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 ...

Dtna

Systems Integration Engineer III

Portland, OR · On-site

$142K/yr

Serve as engineering lead for Powertrain Systems Reliability Growth in-vehicle validation. Drive and support the daily operation of a vehicle test fleet, failure root cause analysis, and to ...

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How much do powertrain engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain engineering 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 much do powertrain engineers get paid?

Powertrain engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior or specialized engineers with advanced skills in CAD tools and engine design can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

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 vehicle propulsion systems, including engines, transmissions, and drivetrains. They analyze performance data, use CAD software, and ensure systems meet safety and efficiency standards throughout the development process.

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?

Senior powertrain engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in engine design, and leadership roles in automotive or aerospace industries can earn $500,000 or more annually. Such compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, typically in large companies or executive positions.

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 specialized positions, such as chief engineers or technical directors, and may include bonuses and stock options.

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.

More about Powertrain Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Powertrain Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Powertrain Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Powertrain Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Powertrain Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain Engineering jobs are:
Powertrain Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,868 per year, or $45.1 per hour.
Senior Powertrain Engineer - San Antonio, Texas

Senior Powertrain Engineer - San Antonio, Texas

JCB North America

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Work on the 1-million sq. ft. factory is now under way on the 400-acre site. It will be the company's second largest plant, rivalled only by JCB's world headquarters in Rocester, Staffordshire, England, and create 1,500 new jobs over five years. The factory will make Loadall telescopic handlers and aerial access equipment, with production scheduled to start in 2026. The factory will also have the capacity to expand and build other products in the future.
Company Profile
80 years and countless innovations later, JCB is the world's largest privately-owned manufacturer of construction and agricultural equipment. At 23 plants spanning four continents-and countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, India and Brazil-JCB manufactures a range of more than 300 products including telescopic handlers, backhoeloaders, excavators, wheel loaders, compact excavators, skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, Accessaerial work platforms, rough terrain forklifts, and tractors.
JCB people are at the heart of our business and as a family-owned business we answer to our customers, not a group of shareholders. That freedom allows us to concentrate on developing the latest technologies and incorporating them into our equipment. We focus on what our customer needs on the jobsite - a machine that holds up in the toughest environment and increases their productivity.
At JCB, we stand behind our products - and our name.
Position Purpose
The Senior Powertrain Engineer - JCB Access will be the technical authority for powertrain systems across the Aerial Work Platform (AWP) portfolio, covering internal combustion engines, electric drivetrains, battery systems, propulsion components, cooling systems, and power distribution. This role ensures powertrain performance, reliability, thermal stability, efficiency, and compliance with global regulatory requirements. The position will be based at JCB World Headquarters in Rocester, UK until Q1 2027, working closely with global engineering teams. In Q1 2027, it will transition permanently to the new JCB San Antonio, Texas facility as part of the establishment of the Access engineering centre.
Position Type
Full Time, Exempt
Major Tasks, Responsibilities & Key Accountabilities
Powertrain Engineering Leadership
  • Lead the design, integration, and optimisation of powertrain systems for boom and scissor AWP products.
  • Develop powertrain architectures that meet performance, efficiency, thermal, and regulatory requirements.
  • Select and validate engines, motors, inverters, batteries, cooling systems, and energy management components.
  • Ensure robust integration between powertrain, hydraulic systems, control software, vehicle stability systems, and machine architecture.

Technical Execution & Compliance
  • Ensure all powertrain systems comply with global AWP and emissions standards including ANSI, CSA, CE, ISO, EPA, and EU Stage regulations.
  • Conduct system-level DFMEAs, thermal analysis, duty-cycle modelling, and performance simulations.
  • Develop and release high-quality engineering documentation including design reviews, validation plans, and technical reports.
  • Lead root-cause investigations for powertrain-related failures and implement corrective actions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work with NPIP teams to ensure new product programmes achieve powertrain performance and efficiency targets.
  • Partner with Current Product Engineering to resolve field issues related to engines, motors, drivetrains, cooling systems, or energy storage.
  • Collaborate with Hydraulic, Electrical, Structure, and Vehicle Integration engineers to ensure seamless system compatibility.
  • Support Manufacturing Engineering on assembly processes, packaging constraints, and production readiness.

Prototyping, Testing & Validation
  • Participate in prototype builds to ensure proper integration, routing, and commissioning of powertrain systems.
  • Define and execute validation plans including thermal and pressure mapping, motor characterization, drive testing, and endurance cycles.
  • Review test results, analyse data, and drive iterative design improvements.
  • Support on-machine tuning and calibration where applicable.

Technical Mentorship & Influence
  • Act as the subject matter expert for powertrain systems within the Access division.
  • Mentor engineers on propulsion concepts, thermal management, efficiency optimisation, and testing methodology.
  • Contribute to the development of engineering standards, simulation models, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Automotive, or related engineering discipline.
  • Extensive experience with powertrain systems for off-highway equipment, AWPs, or comparable mobile machinery.
  • 7+ years of relevant engineering experience including engines, hydrostatic drivetrains, electric drivetrains, battery systems, or hybrid architectures.
  • Strong understanding of cooling systems, driveline components, energy management, and power distribution.
  • Experience working with global standards (ANSI, CSA, CE, ISO, EPA).
    Strong analytical ability including duty cycle modelling, thermal analysis, and performance evaluation.
  • Ability to work effectively with global engineering teams.
  • Experience with powertrain simulation tools, thermal analysis software, or energy modelling tools.
  • Background in prototype builds, powertrain commissioning, and validation test execution.
  • Knowledge of DFM, DFA, and manufacturing processes.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with NX and Teamcenter.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) designation.

Knowledge, Skills & Competencies
  • Strong engineering judgement and technical decision-making
  • Excellent cross-functional communication
  • System-level problem-solving and root-cause analysis capability.
  • Leadership in design reviews and technical discussions
  • Continuous improvement mindset

Location & Transition Timeline
  • Primary location (2026-Q1 2027): JCB World Headquarters, Rocester, UK
  • Permanent relocation (Q1 2027 onward): JCB San Antonio, Texas, USA
  • International travel may be required to support global engineering and manufacturing teams.

Job Conditions
  • Both office environment and occasionally manufacturing/factory environment
  • Subject to noise and temperature changes

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:
  • Sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

JCB is an equal employment opportunities (EEO) employer in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. JCB complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. EEO EMPLOYER/VET/DISABLED.
JCB Inc. is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status; however, as a global company, JCB offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S. which can be found through our website at https://www.jcb.com/en-gb/about/careers.
Disclaimer: This job description is general in nature and is not designed to contain or to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

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