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Senior Engine Performance Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary We are seeking a Senior Performance Engineer to lead performance engineering initiatives for large-scale distributed systems and cloud-native applications. This role focuses on designing ...

Sr Performance Engineer

Charlotte, NC ยท On-site

$60K - $135K/yr

Job Title: Sr Performance Engineer City: Charlotte State/Province: North Carolina Posting Start Date: 3/3/26 Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO) is a leading technology services and ...

Performance Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

The analyst will own the cycle deck and be responsible for guidance on engine capability and ... engineers to develop the ultimate components. * Develop test procedures for determining performance ...

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Senior Engine Performance Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior engine performance engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior engine performance engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Senior Engine Performance Engineer do?

A Senior Engine Performance Engineer is responsible for analyzing, developing, and optimizing engine systems to ensure they meet performance, efficiency, and emissions standards. They work on testing and calibrating engines, interpreting data, and making recommendations for design improvements. These engineers often lead teams, collaborate with other departments, and use advanced tools and simulation software to achieve project goals. Their expertise is crucial in the automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries where engine performance is critical.

What is the difference between Senior Engine Performance Engineer vs Engine Calibration Engineer?

AspectSenior Engine Performance EngineerEngine Calibration Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, certifications like SAE or OEM-specific trainingBachelor's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, calibration-specific certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, testing facilities, vehicle development teamsEngine control units (ECU) calibration, testing labs, vehicle integration
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, motorsport teamsAutomotive OEMs, ECU calibration firms, aftermarket tuning companies

The Senior Engine Performance Engineer focuses on optimizing engine performance through testing and analysis, while the Engine Calibration Engineer specializes in ECU tuning and calibration to meet performance and emissions standards. Both roles require similar technical backgrounds but differ in their specific focus areas within engine development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Engine Performance Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Engine Performance Engineer, you need a deep understanding of thermodynamics, combustion, and engine calibration, typically supported by a degree in mechanical or automotive engineering. Proficiency with simulation software (like GT-Power), data acquisition systems, and engine management tools is essential, along with knowledge of industry standards such as ISO or SAE. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and presenting technical findings. These skills and qualifications are vital for optimizing engine performance, meeting regulatory requirements, and driving innovation in competitive automotive environments.

What are some of the main challenges a Senior Engine Performance Engineer faces when working on new engine designs?

One of the main challenges in this role is balancing competing requirements such as power output, fuel efficiency, emissions compliance, and durability. Senior Engine Performance Engineers often need to collaborate closely with calibration, validation, and design teams to optimize engine parameters while adhering to project timelines and regulatory standards. Additionally, keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies and integrating new components or control strategies can add complexity to the development process. Strong problem-solving skills and effective cross-functional communication are critical to successfully navigating these challenges.
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What cities are hiring for Senior Engine Performance Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Engine Performance Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Engine Performance Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Engine Performance Engineer jobs are:
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Infographic showing various Senior Engine Performance Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Lead Engineer, Internal Combustion Engine Performance

INNIO

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description
About INNIO Group:
INNIO Group is a global distributed energy solutions provider that delivers reliable, flexible, transient, decentralized, modular and efficient power. With a track record of innovation, INNIO designs, manufactures and services high-performance power systems under its Jenbacher and Waukesha brands. The company delivers power for applications including data centers, microgrids, grid stabilization, industrial energy and gas compression.
INNIO operates a global installed base across approximately 100 countries as of December 31, 2025, supported by a resilient, high-margin services business that delivers long-term, recurring revenues across the full equipment lifecycle. As electricity demand accelerates-driven by AI, electrification and grid constraints-INNIO enables scalable, behind-the-meter power generation with high efficiency, fast start capability, strong transient performance and fuel flexibility, including hydrogen-ready solutions. INNIO employs over 5,000 people worldwide and is committed to moving energy forward.
Position Overview:
The Senior Engineer, Combustion Engine Performance will specialize in combustion engine performance, focusing on the design, development, and optimization of advanced engine technologies to meet performance, efficiency, and regulatory requirements. In this role, the engineer will lead and execute product development activities, ensure technical alignment across functions and sites, and drive innovation within this critical domain. This position plays a key role in delivering high-performance solutions that support business and customer objectives.
This position will be based at our Houston, TX office.
Responsibilities:
Technical Expertise, Ownership and Accountability
โ€ข Plan, lead, and execute performance development and validation activities at customer sites
โ€ข Support engine commissioning and troubleshooting at customer site
โ€ข Analyze and resolve technical challenges encountered by project teams at customer locations
โ€ข Communicate effectively and deliver actionable recommendations through the analysis, preparation, and presentation of technical data to internal and external INNIO stakeholders
โ€ข Contribute to innovation by generating ideas for improved products, systems, and technologies, and support the creation of INNIO intellectual property
Planning and Project Management
โ€ข Set up and execute project & validation activities and monitor the status with involved parties to serve the needs of the business and the customer
โ€ข Define and execute work packages and tasks to improve products and technologies, support the planning process and analyze skill gaps within the business
โ€ข Support the Service Organization through technical training and expertise
Collaboration
โ€ข Foster an open and communicative team environment that encourages diverse perspectives and values critical-to-quality (CTQ) considerations
โ€ข Improve project efficiency through appropriate methods and processes - reducing duplication, minimizing handovers, and promoting task ownership
โ€ข Provide support and collaboration across internal engineering teams and external partners
โ€ข Act as a point of contact and facilitator for development teams in the USA and Europe
Requirements:
โ€ข Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
โ€ข Proven experience in the performance development and validation of internal combustion engines
โ€ข Proficiency in state-of-the-art engineering tools and methodologies used for controls development, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
โ€ข Strong hands-on approach with a willingness and ability to work engines at customer site
โ€ข Demonstrated project management capabilities to manage complex performance validation tasks and technically guide cross functional project teams
โ€ข Ability to travel up to 60% of the working time spent at customer sites
โ€ข Valid driver's license and passport
โ€ข Legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
โ€ข Knowledge of project management principles, including planning, execution, and monitoring
โ€ข Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present technical information to senior management and customers
โ€ข Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset
โ€ข Ability to lead and execute product development activities and ensure technical alignment across functions and sites
โ€ข Capability to define work packages, manage timelines, and guide cross-functional teams
โ€ข Ability to engage effectively across all organizational levels within the US and Headquarter in Jenbach / Austria