Director Engineering- Internal Combustion Engine New Technology Introduction, Analysis and Simulation

Generac Power Systems Inc; Waukesha (WI); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Generac Power Systems Inc. seeks a Director of Engineering for Internal Combustion Engine Technology to guide advanced engine development, simulation, and testing. You will lead a global team, set technology strategy, and align investments with customer needs and business priorities.

The role oversees 1-D/3-D simulation, CFD/FEA, and predictive analytics, ensuring efficient workflows and robust product roadmaps. Requires strong leadership and deep engine expertise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or related degree.
• 15 years of progressive engineering experience related to internal combustion engines.
• 7 years management experience.

Responsibilities

• Designs and directs the work of the functional area.
• Lead engine analysis and simulation portions of product development life cycle.
• Develop and lead analysis and simulation capabilities to support technology introduction and new product development.
• Manage departments processes, benchmarking, and governance for analysis objectives.

Skills

Engineering leadership

Project management

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical or Electrical Eng

15 years progressive engineering experience

7 years management experience

Tools

GT-SUITE

GT-xCHEM

CHEMKIN

Converge

Ansys Fluent

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

Job description

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most. For more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future. The Director Engineering- Internal Combustion Engine New Technology Introduction, Analysis and Simulation will shape the future of engine technology by building a high-performing engineering organization, advancing engine technologies, and translating simulation and test insights into products that deliver measurable customer and business value. The Director of Engineering for Internal Combustion Engine Technology leads teams that develop and mature advanced engine technologies. The role sets technical strategy across engine hardware, controls, benchmarking, cost optimization, and advanced analysis and simulation. This leader guides technologies through progressive technology readiness levels (TRL) by integrating competitive benchmarking, design, prototyping, physical testing, and model-based development. The position also establishes analysis and simulation capabilities and processes that support technology introduction and new product development. Success requires deep technical expertise in internal combustion engines, a record of building and leading high-performing engineering teams, and the ability to translate complex engineering work into clear business and product decisions. The organization combines physical testing with 1-D and 3-D simulation, CFD, FEA, in-cylinder combustion modeling, MATLAB/Simulink, Python-based analytics, machine learning, and co-simulation to improve engine performance, emissions, thermal and structural reliability, cost, and development speed to market. Working closely with business leaders and partners in service, operations, supply chain, and finance, this leader aligns technology investments with customer needs and commercial priorities. The Director also develops and implements disciplined engineering methods that deliver superior products while fostering innovation, creativity, technical excellence, and accountability across the organization.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or related degree; 15 years of progressive engineering experience related to internal combustion engines 7 years management experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Master's Degree or PhD in related field preferred but not required. Experience in industrial/commercial products environment. Experience with global product releases throughout the entire product life cycle desired. Advanced experience leading engine analysis, simulation, or development teams supporting internal combustion engine and/or generator platforms. Expertise in advanced technology engine development, prototype, and testing. Expertise in internal combustion engine hardware, controls, and emissions. Experience with engine and engine system simulation tools and methods, including GT-SUITE, GT-xCHEM, CHEMKIN, Converge, Ansys Fluent, MATLAB/Simulink, Python, CFD, FEA, and predictive analytics or similar industry tools. Experience using advanced simulation insights to influence product roadmaps, power cylinder optimization, emissions strategy, thermal management, aftertreatment design, and system validation priorities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Designs and directs the work of the functional area. Selects, coaches, and develops the team, setting objectives that align with company strategy to inspire and motivate the team. Manages organizational talent through performance management, succession planning and development. Designs and directs processes by which team and individual performance are recognized, feedback is consistently delivered and performance is systematically improved. Establishes the vision and strategy to drive world-class excellence within the global engines engineering team, including advanced engine analysis, simulation, modeling, and data-driven engineering capabilities that support internal combustion engine design and development. Drives results that are specifically targeted to the industrial/commercial market and leads processes with corporate planning and new product development teams. Creates and maintains an organizational culture which encourages innovation, collaboration, excitement/commitment and a sense of urgency toward goals, and continuous improvement. Challenges team members to question the status quo and ensure that all aspects of the design, development, simulation, validation, and support process are optimal for the engine generator market. Effectively manage the development process, including time compression techniques, design/application standards for improved repeatability, global process alignment, and standardized modeling workflows and analysis best practices that improve simulation efficiency and accuracy. Lead department process and best practices documentation. Develop and lead the engine analysis and simulation portion of the product development life cycle which includes interaction from the various business segments throughout design, manufacturability, simulation, validation, and serviceability, providing customers the very best in innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Lead the application of 1-D and 3-D simulation, CFD, FEA, in-cylinder combustion analysis, co-simulation, and predictive analytics to evaluate thermal, structural, fluid dynamics, combustion, emissions, reliability, and system performance requirements. Ensure the optimal application of technology, simulation tools, data analytics, and engineering resources to meet engine product development requirements. Work directly with cross functional teams and product management in developing an advanced technology development roadmap for engines that targets specific customer needs. Use simulation results and modeling insights to influence technology roadmaps, emissions reduction strategies, power cylinder optimization, aftertreatment design direction, gaseous fuel system considerations, and product reliability improvements. Manage expenses to ensure regulatory compliance and support corporate goals (e.g. revenue growth, profitability, market penetration). Lead benchmarking activity for engine technology. Other Duties as assigned and the following: Foster collaboration between engineering, sales, operations, finance, and other departments to identify and harvest new engineering concepts, technologies, techniques, standards and procedures. Engage in and lead business planning processes, recruitment, retention, talent acquisition, development, and mentoring. Sponsor the development of standardized reporting formats and governance for analysis objectives, methods, results, and engineering recommendations. Stay informed on relevant technologies, tools, and industry trends in internal combustion engine simulation, emissions modeling, aftertreatment, co-simulation, and predictive analytics to support continuous improvement. Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Advanced level experience in team building and leadership skills; Demonstrated ability to deliver results while working on multiple global projects simultaneously, balancing resources, timing and quality of outcomes; Advanced understanding of engineering technical issues/needs, financial, sales, and marketing as related to product design and development; Deep understanding of internal combustion engine design, operation, testing, exhaust aftertreatment, thermal management, lubrication systems, crankcase ventilation, combustion phasing, turbochargers, exhaust gas recirculation, and gaseous fuel systems; Executive-level ability to interpret, challenge, and communicate complex simulation, CFD, FEA, combustion, co-simulation, machine learning, and predictive analytics results to technical and non-technical stakeholders; Ability to establish modeling workflows, analysis best practices, and data-driven decision-making standards that improve engineering efficiency, accuracy, and product reliability; Excellent communication skills; Self-driven, highly motivated, flexible and high capacity to learn; Previous experience with managing a departmental budget.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision and ability to adjust focus. Up to 10% travel and valid Driver’s License required.

Benefits

This position includes a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental and vision plans; life, long-term disability, flexible spending, and health savings accounts, accrued paid time off, 8 paid Holidays, opportunity for overtime and 401(k) retirement benefits. #LI-MH1

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most. For more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future. As one of the leaders and largest suppliers of power generation equipment and technology, the work we do touches millions of lives. Employees at Generac are encouraged to be innovative and are valued as an integral part of our global team. Our challenging goals develop knowledgeable employees dedicated to helping continue Generac’s success. Generac provides individuals the opportunity to work in a fast-paced agile work environment where their work makes a difference in people’s lives and their own.