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Powertrain Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Tekshapers

Powertrain engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Powertrain Systems Engineer (PMM) Location: Auburn Hills, Michigan Duration: Full Time Responsibilities: • Performing powertrain function analysis and function decomposition • Requirement ...

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Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$154 - $192.50/hr

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. The position is ...

Rivian

Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

Role Summary The Staff Powertrain NVH Engineer is part of the NVH Attributes team and plays a critical role in driving the noise, & vibration refinement of Rivian electric powertrains. This position ...

Ilmor

Marine Powertrain Design Engineer

New Hudson, MI

$75K/yr

MARINE POWERTRAIN DESIGN ENGINEER At Ilmor Engineering, innovation runs as deep as our passion for performance. Proudly named a Crain's Top 100 Places to Work, we pair world‑class engineering with ...

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Powertrain information

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$37

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How much do powertrain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for powertrain in Detroit, MI is $37.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.91 and $41.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Powertrain jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Powertrain jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Powertrain jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Powertrain jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Powertrain jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Powertrain job openings:

Powertrain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,699 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Powertrain Systems Engineer

Ford Motor Company

Allen Park, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Ford Motor Company rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 527 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 45 rated automakers

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.
Racing is where our story began.
In 1901, Henry Ford climbed into a car he built himself-"Sweepstakes"-and beat America's most famous driver. He wasn't a racer, but he had to win. He did. Ford Motor Company was born from that victory.
That fighting spirit lives on in Ford Racing today. We're the engineers, strategists, and competitors who bring Ford's track-tested edge into every vehicle we build. Every track, every stage, every proving ground-that's where we prove ourselves.
The result: one of the world's most iconic brands, legendary nameplates, and a team unmatched in the industry.
Our mantra: Race to win, engineer to lead.
If you're a competitor, innovator, or performance obsessive, Ford Racing is where you belong. Help us write the next chapter.
In this position...
Ford Racing is seeking a highly motivated Powertrain Systems Engineer to support the development and delivery of the Mustang GTD 5.2L powertrain program. This role is responsible for powertrain systems integration and execution from development through production launch, ensuring achievement of quality, performance, cost, weight, and timing targets.
The successful candidate will work across engine, transmission, controls, calibration, vehicle, manufacturing, and supplier teams to help deliver world-class high-performance powertrain systems. This position requires strong technical aptitude, systems thinking, and the ability to effectively coordinate activities across multiple engineering disciplines.
We are looking for an engineer with a passion for high-performance vehicles, strong problem-solving skills, and experience in powertrain development, validation, and launch support.
Responsibilities
What you will do...
  • Support development and integration of the Mustang GTD 5.2L powertrain system.
  • Coordinate powertrain system activities to achieve program targets for quality, performance, cost, weight, timing, and manufacturability.
  • Work closely with engine, transmission, controls, calibration, and vehicle engineering teams to ensure efficient system integration.
  • Support definition, tracking, and execution of powertrain program deliverables and engineering milestones.
  • Lead and coordinate investigation and resolution of powertrain technical issues throughout development and launch phases.
  • Support prototype engine and vehicle build activities, including issue identification, root cause analysis, and corrective action implementation.
  • Interface with manufacturing engineering, vehicle assembly plants, and engine production facilities to ensure successful production implementation.
  • Track and manage system-level concerns, validation results, and development actions through established Ford processes.
  • Support powertrain testing activities including development, durability, performance, and validation programs.
  • Prepare and present technical status updates, issue resolution plans, and program reviews to engineering management and cross-functional teams.
  • Collaborate with suppliers and internal stakeholders to support component and system development activities.
  • Ensure engineering deliverables align with Ford GPDS and Ford Racing program requirements.

Qualifications
You'll have...
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience in automotive engine or propulsion systems engineering.
  • Experience supporting powertrain development programs from concept through validation and production launch.
  • Working knowledge of internal combustion engine systems and vehicle powertrain integration principles.
  • Experience with engineering problem-solving methodologies including root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
  • Experience working in a cross-functional engineering environment involving design, manufacturing, testing, and supplier teams.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to analyze technical data and make data-driven engineering recommendations.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team environment and drive issue resolution.
  • Understanding of product development processes, engineering deliverables, and automotive launch activities.

Even better, if you have...
  • Master's Degree in Engineering or related technical discipline.
  • Experience with high-performance vehicle or racing powertrain programs.
  • Knowledge of Ford GPDS processes and vehicle development systems.
  • Experience with powertrain validation, durability testing, or vehicle testing.
  • Working knowledge of engine controls, calibration, or powertrain software development.
  • Experience using CAD and/or CAE tools (CATIA, Teamcenter).
  • Experience supporting low-volume, specialty, or performance vehicle programs.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing launch support and quality processes.
  • Passion for motorsports and high-performance vehicle development.

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.

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.
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.
#LI-Onsite
#FR1 #LI-DH1

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