ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Powertrain Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optimal Inc.

Powertrain OBD Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

We are seeking a talented and innovative Hybrid Powertrain OBD Subsystem Engineer to join our team ... Lead and resolve software and calibration OBD issues with internal and external stakeholders in a ...

Humble Robotics

Senior Powertrain Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

Position Overview The Senior Powertrain Engineer owns the architecture, design, and delivery of the ... Lead battery system integration, including pack design requirements, thermal strategy, HV safety ...

Archer

Powertrain Operations Manager

San Jose, CA

$152K - $190K/yr

As the Powertrain Operations Manager, you will lead day-to-day operations for the Electric Engine Technician and Battery Technician teams supporting electric powertrain manufacturing. This role ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPowertrain Lead Jobs

Powertrain Lead information

See salary details

$30K

$156.3K

$206K

How much do powertrain lead jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for powertrain lead in the United States is $156,348.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Powertrain Lead?

A Powertrain Lead is an engineering professional responsible for overseeing the design, development, and integration of a vehicle’s powertrain system, which includes the engine, transmission, driveline, and related components. They coordinate teams, manage projects, and ensure that the powertrain meets performance, efficiency, and regulatory requirements. Powertrain Leads work closely with other engineering disciplines to deliver high-quality, innovative solutions for automotive or transportation products.

What are some common challenges faced by a Powertrain Lead when coordinating cross-functional teams during vehicle development?

As a Powertrain Lead, one frequent challenge is ensuring effective communication and alignment between engineering, manufacturing, and testing teams. Because powertrain systems are closely integrated with other vehicle components, balancing conflicting requirements—such as performance, emissions, and cost—requires continuous collaboration and negotiation. Additionally, managing tight project timelines while adapting to evolving regulatory standards can add complexity. Proactive project management and strong interpersonal skills are essential to successfully navigate these challenges and keep development on track.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Powertrain Lead positions in the automotive or aerospace industries can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities. High-level engineering roles often require specialized knowledge of propulsion systems, project management, and relevant certifications, and may include bonuses or stock options that contribute to total compensation.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Powertrain Lead typically requires specialized engineering knowledge and experience, and such roles usually demand a degree or equivalent technical training. However, some high-paying trades or entrepreneurial ventures in automotive repair, custom modifications, or consulting can potentially reach $10,000 monthly without a formal degree, especially with extensive experience and a strong client base.

What is the difference between Powertrain Lead vs Powertrain Engineer?

AspectPowertrain LeadPowertrain Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project management, cross-functional collaborationDesign, analysis, testing, and development of powertrain components
Industry UsageOversees powertrain projects, coordinates teams, ensures project deliveryDevelops and tests powertrain systems, supports design improvements

The Powertrain Lead typically manages teams and oversees project execution, while the Powertrain Engineer focuses on designing and developing powertrain components. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the Lead emphasizes leadership and coordination within the industry.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-level executive roles such as Chief Executive Officers, Chief Operating Officers, and specialized roles like Powertrain Leads in the automotive industry can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve leadership responsibilities in large organizations or corporations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Powertrain Lead, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Powertrain Lead, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, extensive experience with powertrain systems, and often a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, powertrain simulation tools, and industry standards, as well as certifications like Six Sigma or PMP, are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient development, integration, and management of powertrain projects within cross-functional teams.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in technology and energy sectors.
More about Powertrain Lead jobs
What states have the most Powertrain Lead jobs? States with the most job openings for Powertrain Lead jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain Lead jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain Lead jobs are:
Powertrain Lead jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Lead job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% As Needed. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,348 per year, or $75.2 per hour.
Powertrain OBD Engineer

Powertrain OBD Engineer

Optimal Inc.

Dearborn, MI • Hybrid

Contractor

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Description:

We are seeking a talented and innovative Hybrid Powertrain OBD Subsystem Engineer to join our team and work on the development of next-generation powertrain diagnostic software. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in control systems engineering and testing, a passion for automotive technology, and a drive to push the boundaries of innovation in the field. Deliver, validate, and maintain on-board diagnostic (OBD) solutions for hybrid powertrain technologies needed to meet global diagnostic regulatory requirements.

Skills Required:

  • C++, Jira, Product Development, Data Acquisition, Microsoft Word, Software Testing, Data Analysis, Calibration, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Excel, Engine, Microsoft Office
  • C/C++, Matlab, or Simulink - must be able to read/understand, but won't be doing any software coding
  • Jira has some familiarity (will be a Developer/User)
  • Product Development 2+ years of proven experience in automotive product development, preferably in hybrid propulsion diagnostics
  • Data Acquisition 2+ years of data acquisition experience, preferably with ATI Vision Microsoft Word, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office
  • 2+ years of experience in Software Testing, 2+ years of experience Calibration
  • 2+ years of experience Engine working level knowledge of hybrid propulsion and diagnostics

Experience Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Control Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • 2+ years of proven experience in automotive product development, preferably in hybrid propulsion diagnostics
  • 2+ years experience in analyzing / reviewing programming languages such as C/C++, MATLAB, or Simulink
  • Develop and deliver on-board diagnostic (OBD) solutions for hybrid propulsion technologies needed to meet global diagnostic regulatory requirements.
  • Use Simulink to develop signal processing algorithms for requirements analysis and validation; leverage these prototype algorithms for future translation to production embedded software.
  • Perform/oversee HIL, on-road, and dynamometer data collection to calibrate and validate sensor performance and diagnostic monitoring capability of new powertrain technologies.
  • Collaborate with cross functional teams to manage the design, development, and validation of engine diagnostic software. Lead and resolve software and calibration OBD issues with internal and external stakeholders in a timely manner.
  • Author scripts using Matlab, Python and/or other scripting languages to analyze system/diagnostic behavior and support the calibration process.
  • Write calibration guides, regulatory required documentations, and co-author Work Shop Manuals.

Position is HYBRID / 4 days per week in the office


Apply