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Powertrain Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Contribute to a culture of engineering excellence, serving as a technical resource and subject matter contributor for powertrain systems and validation practices. Location & Travel Expectations

Senior Powertrain Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

Define system architecture and key tradeoffs across performance, range, efficiency, thermal ... Engineering, or related field * 5+ years of experience in electric powertrain, battery systems, or ...

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Powertrain Systems Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do powertrain systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for powertrain systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Powertrain Systems 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 is often associated with senior positions, specialized expertise, or working for large corporations with competitive benefits.

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

To thrive as a Powertrain Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, with expertise in powertrain integration, control systems, and vehicle dynamics. Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, CAN communication protocols, and experience with industry standards or certifications like ISO 26262 are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams help distinguish top performers. These skills ensure the development of efficient, reliable, and compliant powertrain systems that meet performance and regulatory demands.

What does a powertrain engineer do?

A powertrain engineer designs, develops, and tests components and systems related to vehicle propulsion, including engines, transmissions, and drivetrains. They analyze performance data, use CAD software, and ensure systems meet safety and efficiency standards throughout the development process.

How does a Powertrain Systems Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during the vehicle development process?

Powertrain Systems Engineers work closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical, software, chassis, and manufacturing engineers, to ensure seamless integration of powertrain components into the overall vehicle design. Regular meetings and design reviews are common, where they align on system requirements, troubleshoot issues, and validate performance targets. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as the work often involves coordinating complex timelines and balancing competing technical constraints from different departments.

What does a Powertrain Systems Engineer do?

A Powertrain Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and integrating the components that deliver power in vehicles, such as engines, transmissions, and electric drive units. They work on optimizing performance, efficiency, and reliability of the powertrain system while ensuring it meets regulatory and safety standards. Their role often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, conducting simulations, and testing prototypes to improve vehicle functionality and reduce emissions.

What engineers make $500,000?

Powertrain Systems Engineers in the automotive and aerospace industries can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in systems design, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in senior or executive positions, or in companies with competitive benefits and stock options.

How much do powertrain engineers get paid?

Powertrain systems engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.
More about Powertrain Systems Engineer jobs
Powertrain OBD Calibration Engineer

Powertrain OBD Calibration Engineer

Ford Motor Company

Dearborn, MI โ€ข Hybrid

$99K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

We made history and now we work to transform the future - for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.


Product Development uses design thinking & user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We bring innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life.We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to advancements in autonomy, electrification, smart mobility technologies, and more!

You'll have...

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (BSME, BSEE, BSAE, BSE Computer Science, BS Computer Engineering)

  • 3+ year's experience of powertrain calibration with vehicle and/or dyno testing.
  • Valid Driver's license required

Even better, you may have...

  • Master of Science in Engineering; Electrical, Mechanical, or similar.
  • Proficient with Matlab and Calibration Tools including ETAS and/or ATI.

  • Strong fundamental knowledge of engine and vehicle operation.
  • Understanding of Emission Regulatory requirements, particularly OBD.
  • Demonstrated ability to create or invent solutions to new or changing requirements.
  • Ability to read and understand powertrain control strategies (C-code & model-based.

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!

As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day
Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.
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This position is a salary grade 7 and ranges from $86,600-$144,900.

This position is a salary grade 8 and ranges from $99,100-$166,200.ย ย 
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Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.
For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/GSR

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.

This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week. #LI-Hybrid

#LI-FordCreditย  ย #LI-JF1ย 

In this position...

Vehicle Powertrain Systems Engineering (VPSE) product development team is looking for qualified candidates to support the powertrain OBD Calibration for Diesel applications. VPSE works in a team environment to help deliver production ready powertrain calibrations on time with efficiency, meet regulatory requirements, and achieve Best in Industry high quality. This position involves evaluating and assessing vehicle attributes, as well as conducting vehicle testing and development at remote locations. This role is located in Dearborn, MI.
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What you'll do...

This Diesel Diagnostic Powertrain Calibration position involves evaluating and assessing vehicle attributes, as well as conducting vehicle testing and development at remote locations.

Calibrate and sign-off OBD Monitor Features for future MY Diesel Programs.

Use models and simulation to reduce testing and optimize powertrain calibrations.

Evaluate and assess vehicle attributes (diagnostics, performance, emissions, NVH) on vehicles and in engine dynamometer test cells.

Modify vehicle and powertrain control calibrations to improve performance, emissions, and diagnostics.

Document progress and methods used to calibrate / validate diagnostic monitors within responsibility.

Interface with software algorithm suppliers (internal and external) to evaluate new OBD Monitors prior to sign-off.

Position can require travel to remote development locations (Arizona/Canada/Denver/Florida) for vehicle testing - about 2 weeks per trip.


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About Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Doral, FL, US

Year founded

1982