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Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer Jobs in California

Karma Automotive

Sr. Engineer I - Battery Software

Irvine, CA · On-site

$130K - $172K/yr

Powertrain system knowledge including engine, motor, inverter, powertrain control, and brake ... Compensation: $125,000 - 150,000 /annual salary. Compensation will vary DOE. At Karma, our base pay ...

Tutor Perini

Quality Control Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Expected salary range for this position is $125,000 - $150,000 depending on experience. Applicants ... Tutor Perini Corporation is seeking a Quality Control Engineer for our office in Los Angeles, CA ...

Automationtechies

Control Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

Our client's Control Engineers design, develop, and commission automation solutions across a wide ... Matching, competitive salaries, profit sharing, and bonuses. * They foster an inclusive ...

Automationtechies

Control Engineer

San Diego, CA

$88K - $114K/yr

Our client's Control Engineers design, develop, and commission automation solutions across a wide ... Matching, competitive salaries, profit sharing, and bonuses. * They foster an inclusive ...

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Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer information

What does a salaried powertrain control engineer do?

A Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes the electronic and software control systems that manage a vehicle's powertrain, which includes the engine, transmission, and related components. Their work involves calibrating control algorithms to ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate new technologies and troubleshoot issues during the development and testing of vehicles. This role typically requires expertise in automotive engineering, control systems, and programming.

What are some common challenges a salaried powertrain control engineer faces when integrating new technologies into existing vehicle platforms?

A Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer often encounters challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility between advanced control systems and legacy vehicle platforms. This may involve extensive calibration, troubleshooting unforeseen software or hardware interactions, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like software developers, hardware engineers, and vehicle validation specialists. Adapting to evolving industry standards and testing protocols also requires continuous learning and flexibility. These challenges are typically addressed through rigorous validation processes, iterative testing, and open communication across departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a salaried powertrain control engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer, a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, along with experience in automotive systems and control theory, is essential. Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, CAN communication protocols, and engine calibration software, as well as relevant certifications like Six Sigma or automotive-specific credentials, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure the engineer can design, optimize, and troubleshoot complex powertrain systems to meet performance, efficiency, and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer vs Powertrain Systems Engineer?

AspectSalaried Powertrain Control EngineerPowertrain Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Automotive Engineering; certifications varyBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Automotive Engineering; certifications may include SAE or OEM-specific
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test engine control systems in automotive or manufacturing settingsDevelop and integrate powertrain systems, focusing on system architecture and integration
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, suppliers, and OEMsAutomotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and engineering consultancies

The Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer primarily focuses on developing and testing engine control algorithms, while the Powertrain Systems Engineer concentrates on system integration and architecture. Both roles require similar technical backgrounds but differ in scope and daily responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Powertrain Control Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Powertrain Control Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer job openings:

Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Salaried Powertrain Control Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

PERFORMANCE POWERTRAIN CALIBRATION ENGINEER

034Motorsport

Fremont, CA

$50K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

PERFORMANCE POWERTRAIN CALIBRATION ENGINEER

034Motorsport is a widely known engineering and manufacturing firm of high performance Audi and Volkswagen automotive solutions. We are a company made up of automotive enthusiasts dedicated to delighting our customers with excessive levels of speed through innovative performance products and exceptional application expertise. We are currently seeking an experienced Performance Powertrain Calibration Engineer to complement our staff and bring the same level of excitement, expertise and performance to our Engineering team.

Responsibilities

  • Working with our software calibration and marketing teams to develop world class performance engine and transmission software.
  • Hands-on calibration of engine and transmission control units.
  • Methodically test and calibrate powertrain control systems (engine and transmission control units primarily).
  • Testing/data collection both on a dynamometer and in real-world situations.
  • Taking calibration projects from a concept to deliverable software and test results.
  • Ownership of engine calibration for a platform, managing the product from advanced engineering through development and into maintenance activities.
  • Some travel required for testing, events, and certification work.
  • Working with a passionate team of enthusiasts. In a fun, but driven atmosphere.

Requirements

  • 2+ years of experience in vehicle calibration.
  • Experience with aftermarket powertrain calibration tools, methods, and requirements.
  • Ability to work directly with calibration software to modify, program, and log required variables.
  • Self driven project completion.
  • Able to read and interpret complex technical documentation and data.
  • Customer focused project development.
  • A thirst for in-depth technical collaboration with team members.
  • Ability to take and provide feedback on projects and methods.
  • Advanced problem-solving skills and an aptitude for striking a balance between the application of academic theory and engineering judgment for a given project.
  • Fundamental understanding of compression ignition combustion.
  • Experience with compression ignition engine technologies.
  • Experience with Mechatronic systems and power delivery in vehicle applications (automated transmissions and drivetrain controls).
  • Strong communication skills both written and verbal.
  • Legally able to drive.

Preferred Experience

  • Familiarity with engine testing in an engine and/or chassis dynamometer.
  • Familiarity with OEM style calibration tools and technologies
  • In-depth knowledge of the Volkswagen and Audi product line and aftermarket.
  • In-depth knowledge of Bosch (MED/MDG) and Siemens (Simos) engine control systems.
  • In-depth knowledge of automated transmission control systems (Temic, ZF, Bosch).
  • Familiarity with compliance certifications and testing procedures (CARB, EPA, etc).
  • Racing/track experience on both short straight tracks and longer less-straight tracks.
  • Software development experience in any of the following:
    • C#
    • C
    • C++
  • Embedded software reverse engineering (TriCore, MPC/PowerPC).

If you are interested in this exciting and influential position, please click the Apply For This Position button below, upload a detailed resume and cover letter, and fill out the application. Soon after you complete these steps, you will receive an email thanking you for applying that will also have a link to the next step in the candidate review process.

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