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Powertrain Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Dynamic Manufacturing

Test Engineer

Hillside, IL · On-site

$65K - $120K/yr

... and powertrain parts. The Test Engineer is expected to have a demonstrable understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical, and electrical concepts. They should also be able to analyze test ...

Rivian

Sr. Series Engineer, Powertrain

Normal, IL · On-site

$98K - $123K/yr

About Rivian Rivian is on a mission to keep the world adventurous forever. This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous souls we seek to attract.

Rivian

Sr. Series Engineer, Powertrain

Normal, IL · On-site

$98K - $123K/yr

About Rivian Rivian is on a mission to keep the world adventurous forever. This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous souls we seek to attract.

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Powertrain information

See Illinois salary details

$21

$36

$63

How much do powertrain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain in Illinois is $36.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.29 and $41.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Powertrain vs Transmission Technician?

AspectPowertrainTransmission Technician
Primary FocusEngine, transmission, drivetrain componentsTransmission systems and repairs
Required CertificationsASE certifications in engine, drivetrain, or transmissionASE Transmission Specialist certification
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, repair shops, dealershipsDealerships, repair shops, service centers
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturing, repair, and designVehicle repair and maintenance

Powertrain technicians focus on the entire drivetrain system, including engines and transmissions, while Transmission Technicians specialize specifically in transmission systems. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in repair shops or dealerships. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service focus within the automotive industry.

What is a powertrain?

A powertrain refers to the main components that generate power and deliver it to the road surface in a vehicle. It typically includes the engine, transmission, driveshafts, differentials, and the final drive. The powertrain is responsible for converting the engine's energy into motion, making it one of the most crucial systems in automobiles, trucks, and other machinery. Understanding how the powertrain works is essential for diagnosing performance issues and ensuring the vehicle operates efficiently.

What are some typical challenges faced by powertrain engineers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Powertrain engineers often work closely with design, manufacturing, and testing teams, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and project timelines. Ensuring effective communication across these teams is essential to avoid misunderstandings about system integration, emissions standards, and performance targets. Additionally, balancing cost, efficiency, and regulatory compliance while incorporating feedback from various stakeholders can be complex. Successful powertrain engineers proactively engage in regular meetings and use collaborative tools to keep all teams informed and aligned.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a powertrain engineer?

To excel as a Powertrain Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, with expertise in internal combustion engines, electric drivetrains, and vehicle dynamics. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, and knowledge of industry regulations or certifications such as ISO/TS 16949 are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help drive innovation and facilitate collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing efficient, reliable powertrain systems that meet performance, safety, and environmental standards.

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, improve efficiency, and ensure integration with vehicle systems, often using CAD software and testing facilities. Strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems is essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Powertrain jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Powertrain jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Powertrain jobs in Illinois? For Powertrain jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Powertrain jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Powertrain jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Powertrain jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Powertrain job openings:
Powertrain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,056 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Powertrain Systems Engineer

Tachyon Technologies LLC

Peoria, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Overview:
Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Powertrain Systems Engineer to lead system-level analysis, requirement engineering, and functional decomposition for next-generation propulsion systems. The role involves working across mechanical, electrical, and software domains to define, analyze, and validate powertrain system behavior across the V-model development lifecycle. The candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams and support agile development of advanced propulsion technologies including conventional and hybrid systems.
Key responsibilities:
  • Perform powertrain system function analysis and functional decomposition for vehicle propulsion systems
  • Lead requirements elicitation, definition, and traceability from system level down to software level across the V-model lifecycle
  • Develop and maintain high-level propulsion system functional requirements using IBM DOORS / IBM DOORS Next Generation (DNG)
  • Define and document system attributes, interfaces, and requirements traceability in DNG
  • Identify, analyze, and document propulsion system operating modes and system behaviors
  • Understand and model energy conversion, storage, and delivery mechanisms in propulsion systems
  • Ensure compliance with automotive standards, including OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) requirements
  • Participate in Agile development processes, including backlog planning, sprint reviews, and risk identification
  • Develop simulation and virtual models for propulsion features/functions using MATLAB/Simulink
  • Create system architecture models using SysML tools such as IBM Rhapsody
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, calibration, validation, and hardware engineering teams
  • Support system validation, integration, and change management across the product lifecycle

Professional Skills:
  • Powertrain system engineering (conventional & hybrid propulsion systems)
  • System-level function analysis & functional decomposition
  • Requirements engineering & traceability (V-Model lifecycle)
  • IBM DOORS / DOORS Next Generation (DNG) for requirements management
  • Propulsion system operating modes definition & analysis
  • Automotive powertrain architecture & vehicle system understanding
  • Vehicle dynamics and overall vehicle behavior understanding
  • MATLAB / Simulink for simulation and virtual modeling
  • SysML / IBM Rhapsody for system modeling and architecture design
  • Automotive standards compliance (including OBD - On-Board Diagnostics)
  • Agile methodology (backlog planning, sprint participation, risk identification)
  • Cross-functional collaboration (software, calibration, validation, hardware teams)
  • Change management and vehicle development lifecycle understanding
  • Technical documentation and requirement specification development

Skills:
Powertrain systems engineering (ICE & hybrid) Requirements engineering & V-model traceability IBM DOORS / DOORS Next Generation (DNG) Vehicle dynamics & powertrain architecture MATLAB / Simulink modeling

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