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Cummins Inc. is seeking a talented Current Product Powertrain - System Performance Technical Specialist in Columbus, IN. You will lead PPS projects focused on engine and aftertreatment performance, applying data-driven problem solving and system thinking across mechanical, thermal, and control domains.
You will mentor engineers, coordinate cross-functional inputs, and drive rigorous design decisions while improving tools and processes within the SPACE team.
We are looking for a talented Current Product Powertrain - System Performance Technical Specialist to join our team specializing in Engineering in Columbus, IN.
Lead Product Problem Solving (PPS) projects for complex components/systems, ensuring accountability, timely delivery, and alignment with project goals despite ambiguity
Engage and influence cross-functional stakeholders to gather inputs, align priorities, and drive informed decisions on design and feasibility
Make high-impact decisions on analysis, testing, and execution details that accelerate project progress while maintaining technical rigor and quality
Mentor engineers and contribute to continuous improvement of engineering tools and processes
Serve as a recognized subject matter expert, influencing technical direction, strengthening team decision-making, and advancing expertise within the discipline
Coordinate and guide technicians, students, and junior engineers, enabling effective execution while building team capability through mentorship and knowledge sharing
Plan, coordinate, and execute product development PPS Projects effectively, ensuring alignment to requirements, timelines, and quality targets across the full product lifecycle
Build strong technical depth in system performance and tuning of the engine and aftertreatment
Apply disciplined, data-driven problem-solving methods to diagnose issues, determine root causes, and implement sustainable corrective actions
Drive development and tuning of controls and diagnostics strategies
Plan and execute testing, simulations, and field data analysis to support product improvements
Use systems thinking to evaluate interactions across mechanical, thermal, and control systems
Proactively identify and mitigate failure modes using structured approaches to improve product reliability and reduce risk early in development
Demonstrate strong professional competencies—clear communication, sound decision-making, resourcefulness, and collaboration—while managing complexity and delivering results through diverse, cross-functional teams
College, university, or equivalent Bachelor's degree in Engineering or appropriate STEM field is required.
Post-graduate (Master's) degree relevant to this discipline area may be required for select roles.
This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations.
Prior Senior or Lead Engineer equivalent work experience in a relevant discipline area is required with a demonstrated track record of technical problem solving and quality decision making.
Knowledge of MS Office tools is preferred.
This position is in the System Performance, Aftertreatment, Controls, and Emissions (SPACE) team, which delivers product improvements for EBU platforms in North America, using the 7-step problem solving approach.
Lead PPS projects and investigations in the areas of on-board diagnostics (OBD), engine or aftertreatment performance, emissions, controls.
Apply system thinking and data analysis to identify and resolve the assignable cause for the product issue. Implement step 3 improvements where feasible.
Plan and execute/direct testing, simulations, and field data analysis.
Manage project schedule.
Provide coaching and mentoring to other engineers on the team.
Lead functional excellence initiatives to improve capability of tools/processes
Successful candidates will possess:
Strong critical thinking, analysis, project leadership and communication skills.
Working knowledge of engine systems with experience in delivering relevant subsystems/features. Prior experience in calibration, controls or on-board diagnostics projects is strongly desired.
Experience with Matlab and Simulink. Experience with simulation tools such as CROSS, GT-Suite, etc is desired.
Experience or interest in applying structured problem-solving approaches to projects.
At Cummins, we are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer dedicated to diversity in the workplace. Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, gender, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity and/or expression, or other status protected by law. Cummins validates the right to work using E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. Visit http://EEOC.gov to know your rights on workplace discrimination.