Powertrain Engineer

AirQ; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

AirQ in Abu Dhabi is seeking a highly capable Powertrain Engineer to join the R&D Mechanical Engineering team, focused on ICE integration, drivetrain systems, and full powertrain architecture development for complex platforms.

The role emphasizes end-to-end system ownership, engine integration, gearbox design, and validation across testing and cross-functional collaboration with controls, electrical, and manufacturing teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• 5+ years in powertrain, ICE, or drivetrain engineering.
• Hands-on experience with internal combustion engines (2-stroke or 4-stroke).
• Experience in prototype assembly, integration, and troubleshooting.
• Exposure to multidisciplinary engineering environments.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end ICE powertrain system integration within mechanical platforms.
• Define and maintain propulsion and drivetrain system architecture.
• Ensure full system integration, reliability, and performance compliance.
• Integrate engines into new and existing platforms.
• Design gearboxes and CVT interfaces; optimize gear ratios.
• Perform torque, power, vibration, and thermal analyses.
• Contribute to testing, validation, and root-cause analysis.
• Collaborate with controls, electrical, and manufacturing teams.
• Prepare assembly drawings and interface documentation.

Skills

Powertrain

CAD tools

Drivetrain dynamics

Engineering calculations

PDM/PLM

Cross-functional

Documentation

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

NX or equivalent

Job description

We are seeking a highly capable Powertrain Engineer to join our advanced R&D Mechanical Engineering team in Abu Dhabi. This role is central to our propulsion development activities, focusing on internal combustion engine (ICE) integration, drivetrain systems, and full powertrain architecture development for complex mechanical platforms.

Key ResponsibilitiesPowertrain System Ownership

• Own end-to-end integration of ICE powertrain systems within mechanical platforms
• Define and maintain system architecture for propulsion and drivetrain subsystems
• Ensure full system integration, reliability, and performance compliance

Engine Integration & Mechanical Systems

• Integrate internal combustion engines into new and existing platforms
• Manage engine mounting, alignment, cooling, intake, exhaust, lubrication, and accessory systems
• Support engine selection, adaptation, and tuning for performance, efficiency, and durability

Drivetrain & Transmission Design

• Design and integrate gearboxes, reduction drives, clutches, belts, chains, and CVT systems
• Perform gear ratio selection, torque capacity calculations, and efficiency optimization
• Develop mechanical interfaces between engine, gearbox, and driveline components

Engineering Analysis & Validation

• Perform calculations for torque, power, vibration, fatigue, thermal loads, and drivetrain losses
• Conduct CAD-based design, packaging studies, motion analysis, and basic FEA validation
• Ensure compliance with performance, safety, and reliability requirements

Testing & System Validation

• Participate in bench testing, integration testing, and system validation activities
• Analyze test data and identify root causes of performance or reliability issues
• Drive iterative design improvements based on validation results

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work with controls/software teams for engine control, torque response, and safety logic
• Coordinate with electrical teams for starter systems, alternators, and hybrid interfaces
• Engage with manufacturing partners and suppliers for prototyping and component development

Documentation & Engineering Control

• Prepare technical documentation, assembly drawings, and integration instructions
• Maintain interface control documentation and system traceability
• Ensure configuration control using PDM/PLM systems

Qualifications & ExperienceEducation

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master’s preferred)

Experience

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in powertrain, ICE systems, or drivetrain engineering
• Strong hands-on experience with internal combustion engines (2-stroke or 4-stroke)
• Experience in prototype assembly, integration, and troubleshooting
• Exposure to multidisciplinary engineering environments

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX or equivalent)
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems and drivetrain dynamics
• Experience with engineering calculations and system-level analysis
• Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems (preferred)

Soft Skills

• Strong ownership and accountability mindset
• Excellent communication and technical documentation skills
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving ability
• Ability to work in cross-functional engineering teams
• High attention to detail and engineering discipline

Why Join Us

• Work on advanced propulsion and drivetrain systems in a high-impact R&D environment
• Take full ownership of system-level engineering challenges
• Collaborate with highly skilled mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers
• Engage in complex engineering problems beyond conventional applications
• Opportunity to contribute to real-world high-performance systems development