Vehicle Engineer

Actalent; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent in Detroit, MI is seeking a Vehicle Test Engineer to support the development and validation of advanced powertrain systems for on-highway trucks. This hands-on role blends vehicle testing, data analysis, troubleshooting, and performance validation.

You will work with diesel engines and aftertreatment technologies, install instrumentation, collect CAN data, and generate reports to drive improvements. Travel and field testing across North America are part of the role.

Qualifications

• Experience with engine/powertrain or vehicle validation testing.
• Hands-on automotive engineering experience with instrumentation and data acquisition.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support vehicle test activities focused on diesel engines, aftertreatment systems, transmissions, and controls.
• Troubleshoot performance issues and perform root cause analysis.
• Install and validate test instrumentation and support electrical troubleshooting.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret vehicle data using CAN-based diagnostic and calibration tools.
• Generate performance reports and validation summaries to communicate test results.

Skills

Engine testing

Powertrain testing

Vehicle validation

Data acquisition

Instrumentation

CANape

CANalyzer

MATLAB

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Vector CANape

CANalyzer

INCA

MATLAB

Job description

Are you passionate about diesel engines, vehicle performance, and solving complex engineering challenges in real-world conditions?

We're seeking a Vehicle Test Engineer to support the development and validation of advanced powertrain systems for on-highway trucks. This hands-on role combines vehicle testing, data analysis, troubleshooting, and performance validation, offering the opportunity to work directly with cutting‑edge diesel engine and powertrain technologies.

If you enjoy being in the field, analyzing vehicle performance, and driving engineering improvements from test data, this is a great opportunity to make a tangible impact.

What You'll Do

• Lead and support vehicle test activities focused on diesel engines, aftertreatment systems, transmissions, and controls.
• Troubleshoot vehicle and powertrain performance issues and perform root cause analysis.
• Install and validate test instrumentation and support electrical troubleshooting activities.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret vehicle data using CAN-based diagnostic and calibration tools.
• Generate performance reports, graphs, and validation summaries to communicate test results.
• Identify system concerns, elevate issues, and recommend performance improvements.
• Work closely with technicians, drivers, and engineering teams to achieve testing objectives.
• Support remote summer and winter testing programs across North America.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Experience with engine testing, powertrain testing, or vehicle validation testing.
• Hands‑on automotive engineering experience, including instrumentation and data acquisition.

Proficiency with:

• Vector CANape and/or CANalyzer
• INCA
• MATLAB
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage testing activities with minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, or Controls Engineering.

Strong understanding of:

• Aftertreatment systems and emissions controls
• Engineering thermodynamics
• Experience with engine dynamometer testing.
• Experience working in a union manufacturing or testing environment.

Travel & Schedule

This role offers the opportunity to participate in extensive real-world vehicle testing programs.

• Approximately 40% travel annually
• Summer testing season: 6-18 weeks
• Winter testing season: 6-18 weeks
• Typical rotation: 2 weeks on the road / 2 weeks home
• Overtime expected during testing seasons (approximately 200-400 hours annually)

Why Join Us?

• Work on next-generation commercial vehicle technologies.
• Gain exposure to advanced diesel and powertrain development programs.
• Participate in high-profile field testing initiatives across diverse operating environments.
• Collaborate with experienced engineers, technicians, and industry experts.
• Play a direct role in improving vehicle performance, quality, and reliability.

Top Skills

• Self-Starter / Independent Contributor