Powertrain Design Engineer — Lower End

Harley-Davidson Motor Company; Wauwatosa, Northern (WI, KY); Hybrid; USD 74,900 - 112,200; Full time

Job summary

Harley-Davidson Motor Company in Wauwatosa, WI is seeking a Design Engineer - Powertrain Lower End to own lifecycle design of crankshafts, rods, bearings, and related powertrain components.

This role requires experience in ICE and powertrain, strong problem‑solving abilities, and the ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver robust, optimized powertrain solutions.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of related experience.
• Experience in the fundamentals of internal combustion engine (ICE) and powertrain operation.
• Solid understanding of ICE performance, durability and emissions tradeoffs.
• Demonstrated the ability to develop and follow a test plan to ensure project requirements are met.
• Understanding of data acquisition systems and techniques through successful execution of projects.
• Understanding of design and release controls as well as PPAP.

Responsibilities

• Collaborates with cross‑functional teams to design, develop, and deliver powertrain components and systems from concept through production.
• Proactively seeks out and maintains expertise in state‑of‑the‑art design methodologies, analysis tools, materials, and testing techniques related to crankshafts, connecting rods, bearings, and associated components.
• Diagnoses and resolves complex technical issues, applying both innovative thinking and rigorous analytical methods to develop effective solutions.
• Influences project outcomes by delivering optimized designs that meet performance targets while balancing quality, weight, cost, and timing constraints.
• Supports creation and execution of DFMEAs and DVP&Rs.
• Analyzes test data and drives closure of findings for both internally executed and supplier‑led validation activities.
• Communicates project status, risks, key metrics, and recommended actions clearly and effectively to cross‑functional partners and leadership.
• Identifies and implements continuous improvement opportunities within component design processes, tools, and methodologies.

Skills

Component design

Simulation

Testing methodologies

System interactions

Problem solving

Data analysis

Education

B.S. in Engineering

Tools

DFMEA

DVP&R

PPAP

Job description

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Auto req ID:54142
Title:Design Engineer - Base Powertrain
Job Function:Engineering
Location:PDC
Workplace Category:Onsite
Company:Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Full or Part-Time:Full Time
Shift:SHIFT1

At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It’s our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley-Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join us?

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra – You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a Design Engineer - Base Powertrain.

Job Summary

This Design Engineer role will support the design, development, validation, and launch of base powertrain components and systems. This entry-level role works within an experienced engineering team to help translate requirements into robust designs, evaluate technical options, support analysis and testing, and communicate results clearly to cross-functional partners. The role is intended for an early-career engineer who is building foundational capability in product development, design tools, problem solving, and production release processes.

Job Responsibilities

• Support design and delivery of powertrain components and systems from concept through production launch under the guidance of experienced engineers. Examples of supported components include crankshafts, casings, covers, cylinder heads, balancers, gears, and bearings.
• Develop and maintain fundamental knowledge of engineering calculations, CAD tools, drawings, materials, manufacturing processes, and validation methods.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners to define requirements, evaluate design alternatives, and support decisions that balance performance, quality, cost, weight, and timing.
• Assist with engineering analysis, tolerance reviews, component packaging, design reviews, and documentation needed to demonstrate design robustness.
• Support creation and execution of Design Failure Modes and Effects Analyses (DFMEAs), Design Verification Plans and Reports (DVP&Rs), and related engineering deliverables.
• Review test data, summarize findings, and help drive closure of issues identified through development, validation, supplier, or production activities.
• Communicate project status, risks, open issues, and recommended next steps clearly to team members, cross-functional partners, and leadership.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes, engineering tools, documentation practices, and team standards.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Required

Education Specifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or a related technical field required.
• Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical degree preferred.

Experience Requirements

• Typically requires a minimum of 3 years of related experience.
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical systems, powertrain operation, product design, engineering drawings, and basic analytical methods.
• Basic familiarity with CAD tools and product data management systems; experience with Creo, Windchill, or similar tools preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly, solve problems using data and sound engineering judgment, and follow structured development or test plans.
• Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional engineering environment.
• Interest in motorcycle, automotive, powersports, or mobility product development preferred.

The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.

We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more.Learn more about Harley-Davidson here .

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Direct Reports: No
Travel Required: 0 - 10%
Pay Range:$74,900 - 112,200
Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer
Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)

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