Principal Engineer – Propulsion Systems

JCB, Inc.; Pooler, Northern (GA, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Job summary

JCB Inc. in Savannah, GA is seeking an experienced Principal Propulsion Systems Engineer to design, develop, and integrate propulsion systems for heavy machinery. This onsite role reports to the Engineering Manager and focuses on system performance, reliability, and safety.

The position requires leadership of cross-functional teams, deep propulsion knowledge, and the ability to mentor junior engineers while driving continuous improvements in hydraulic system design.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Agricultural Engineering.
• 7+ years of propulsion systems engineering experience, preferably in off-highway or heavy equipment industries.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (Unigraphics NX) and system simulation tools (AMESim, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Familiarity with Teamcenter Engineering and engineering data management systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of propulsion systems for heavy machinery and equipment.
• Create and review component specifications and system layouts.
• Perform system-level analysis and simulations to ensure performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers.
• Oversee integration and testing of propulsion systems in prototype and production environments.

Skills

Propulsion systems

Leadership

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Mechanical Engineering

Agricultural Engineering

Tools

Unigraphics NX

AMESim

MATLAB/Simulink

Automation Studio

Teamcenter Engineering

Job description

Company Profile

With over 80 years of innovation, JCB is the world's largest privately owned manufacturer of construction and agricultural equipment. Operating 23 manufacturing facilities across four continents- including the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and Brazil- JCB produces a diverse portfolio of more than 300 products. These include telescopic handlers, backhoe loaders, excavators, wheel loaders, compact excavators, skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, access aerial work platforms, rough terrain forklifts, and tractors.

At the heart of JCB's success are its people. As a family-owned business, we are accountable to our customers—not shareholders—which gives us the flexibility to focus on long-term innovation and delivering real value. This independence allows us to continuously develop advanced technologies and integrate them into equipment designed to perform in the toughest environments while maximizing customer productivity.

At JCB, we stand behind our products—and our name—with pride and commitment to quality.

Position Purpose

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Principal Propulsion Systems Engineer to join our engineering team at our Savannah, GA location. This position is in the construction equipment OEM industry and will report directly to the Engineering Manager. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in Propulsion systems design, development, and integration for heavy machinery.

Position Type

Full Time, Exempt

Location

Onsite in Pooler, GA

Benefits and Other Compensation

JCB offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401 (k) retirement plan; paid time off and paid holidays.

Major Tasks, Responsibilities & Key Accountabilities

• Lead the design and development of propulsion systems for heavy machinery and equipment.
• Create and review component specifications, and system layouts.
• Perform system-level analysis and simulations to ensure performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers.
• Oversee the integration and testing of propulsion systems in prototype and production environments.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal engineering guidelines.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical leadership within the organization.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in hydraulic system design and development processes.
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Agricultural Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in propulsion systems engineering, preferably in off-highway or heavy equipment industries.
• Proficiency in design tools and CAD software (e.g., Unigraphics NX).
• Understanding of thermodynamics, component selection, and system integration.
• Experience with system simulation tools such as AMESim, MATLAB/Simulink and/or Automation Studio.
• Familiarity with Teamcenter Engineering and engineering data management systems.
• Must pass any drug screens, background checks, and any pre-employment tests, which will be conducted in accordance with applicable law.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with prototype development and field testing of propulsion systems.
• Understanding of control systems and electro-hydraulic integration.
• Project management experience and ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Strong documentation and technical writing skills.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong leadership & communication skills.
• Ability to work in a high-stress environment.
• Detail-oriented and able to work independently.
• Collaborative approach to resolving issues impacting various groups across the enterprise.
• Ability to understand processes (system and non-system), troubleshoot, develop, and recommend solutions.
• Enjoy working in a dynamic environment and be a self-motivated team player.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Microsoft Project.

Job Conditions

• Both office environment and occasionally manufacturing/factory environment.
• Subject to noise and temperature changes.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those required of an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:

• Remain stationary, operate hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear.
• The employee is occasionally required to stand and move and/or walk.
• The employee must frequently move and/or transport up to 10 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Equal Opportunity Employer

JCB is an equal employment opportunity (EEO) employer in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. JCB complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment at every location where the company has facilities. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability statute, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, and local laws.

EEO EMPLOYER/VET/DISABLED.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

JCB complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the JCB Human Resources team at [e-mail].

JCB Inc. is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status; however, as a global company, JCB offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S., which can be found through our website at https://www.jcb.com/en-gb/about/careers.

Disclaimer: This job description is general in nature and is not designed to contain or to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.