Senior Powertrain Engineer

TRS Staffing Solutions; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 155,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

TRS Staffing Solutions is looking for a Senior Powertrain Engineer in San Antonio, TX, to serve as the technical authority for powertrain systems. This role requires a Bachelor's or Master's degree and over 7 years of experience in powertrain engineering, ensuring performance, reliability, and compliance.

The engineer will lead powertrain design and integration for Aerial Work Platforms (AWPs) and collaborate with global teams. Benefits include a competitive salary between $155k and $170k and a permanent position.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in powertrain engineering for off-highway equipment.
• Experience with regulatory standards (ANSI, CSA, ISO, EPA, etc.).
• Proven ability to mentor and guide engineering team members.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and integration of powertrain systems.
• Ensure compliance with global standards and perform system-level analysis.
• Support prototype builds and validate powertrain architectures.

Skills

Powertrain engineering

Hands-on experience with engines and drivetrains

Analytical capabilities in modeling

Collaboration with global teams

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive, or related field

Tools

Siemens NX

Teamcenter

Job description

Job Title: Senior Powertrain Engineer

Location: San Antonio, TX

Industry: Equipment Manufacturing

Status of Hire: Direct Placement – Permanent

Pay: $155k – $170k; Exempt

We are seeking a Senior Powertrain Engineer to serve as the technical authority for powertrain systems across an expanding Aerial Work Platform (AWP) portfolio. This role leads the design, integration, and optimization of both internal combustion and electrified propulsion systems, ensuring best‑in‑class performance, reliability, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

Based in San Antonio, this position plays a key role in building and scaling North American engineering capabilities as part of a newly established engineering center, working closely with global teams across product development, quality, and operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Powertrain Leadership & Architecture:
  • Lead end‑to‑end design and integration of powertrain systems across boom and scissor lift platforms.
  • Develop and validate powertrain architectures, including:
    • Internal combustion engines
    • Electric drivetrains and hybrid systems
    • Battery systems and energy management
  • Drive optimisation of system performance, efficiency, and thermal management.
  • Ensure seamless integration with hydraulics, controls, vehicle systems, and overall machine architecture.
• Technical Execution & Compliance:
  • Ensure compliance with global standards and regulations (ANSI, CSA, CE, ISO, EPA, EU Stage, etc.).
  • Perform system‑level:
    • DFMEA
    • Thermal analysis
    • Duty‑cycle modelling
    • Performance simulation
  • Produce and review engineering documentation (design reviews, validation plans, technical reports).
  • Lead root‑cause analysis and corrective actions for powertrain‑related issues.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration:
  • Partner with NPI/NPIP teams to meet program targets for performance and efficiency.
  • Support current product engineering to resolve field issues across powertrain systems.
  • Collaborate with:
    • Electrical, hydraulic, and structural engineering
    • Vehicle integration teams
    • Manufacturing engineering for production readiness and packaging constraints.
• Prototyping, Testing & Validation:
  • Support prototype builds and commissioning activities.
  • Define and execute validation plans, including:
    • Thermal and pressure mapping
    • Motor characterization
    • Drive cycle and endurance testing
  • Analyse test data and drive continuous design improvements.
  • Support system tuning and calibration as required.
• Technical Leadership & Mentorship:
  • Act as a subject‑matter expert for all powertrain‑related systems.
  • Mentor and guide engineering team members.
  • Contribute to engineering standards, modelling methods, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Influence design decisions through technical leadership and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in powertrain engineering for off‑highway equipment, AWPs, or similar mobile machinery.
• Hands‑on experience with:
  • Engines, electric drivetrains, or hybrid systems
  • Cooling systems and energy management
  • Power distribution and driveline components
• Strong analytical capabilities in modelling, simulation, and system evaluation.
• Experience with global regulatory standards (ANSI, CSA, ISO, EPA, etc.).
• Proven ability to collaborate with global engineering teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Siemens NX and Teamcenter.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Experience in electrification or hybrid powertrain systems.

Core Competencies

• Strong engineering judgment and technical decision‑making.
• Systems‑level thinking and problem‑solving.
• Root‑cause analysis and data‑driven decision‑making.
• Effective cross‑functional communication and collaboration.
• Leadership in technical reviews and product development.
• Continuous improvement mindset.

Work Environment

• Combination of office, lab, and manufacturing environments.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, noise levels, and shop conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
• Occasionally stand and walk.
• Frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Employment Conditions

• Must be authorized to work in the United States; client is not able to offer sponsorship at this time.
• Must be able to pass a pre‑employment drug test and background check to be eligible for hire.

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by governing law.