Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Access to state-of-the-art testingFaci

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer to join our client's team in Nelspruit. You will calibrate engine and transmission ECUs/TCUs to optimize performance, drivability, fuel economy and emissions.

You will use ETAS INCA, ATI Vision, CANape and data acquisition systems, work with dynamometers and test vehicles, and collaborate with design and test engineers to refine calibration strategies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 4 years of automotive powertrain calibration experience.
• Proficiency with ETAS INCA, ATI Vision, CANape and data acquisition tools.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engines, thermodynamics and emissions.
• Experience with manual/automatic transmission calibration.
• Familiarity with CAN/OBD-II and vehicle diagnostics.
• Analytical mindset and data-driven approach; good communication and teamwork.
• Ability to work on-site with hands-on testing.

Responsibilities

• Calibrate engine and transmission control modules for performance, fuel economy, and emissions.
• Develop and execute calibration test plans using dynamometers and test vehicles.
• Analyze real-time engine and vehicle data to identify calibration issues and opportunities for improvement.
• Modify engine control software parameters to achieve desired performance characteristics and drivability.
• Ensure compliance with emissions regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with powertrain design and development teams to integrate calibration requirements.
• Document calibration strategies, test results, and final calibration settings.
• Troubleshoot powertrain issues identified during testing or by customers.
• Stay updated on powertrain technologies, calibration tools, and regulatory changes.

Skills

Powertrain calibration

Data analysis

Problem solving

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering

Tools

ETAS INCA

ATI Vision

CANape

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent automotive manufacturer, is seeking a skilled Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer to join their dedicated team in Nelspruit . This role is integral to optimizing the performance, drivability, and emissions of vehicle powertrains. You will be responsible for calibrating engine and transmission control units (ECUs/TCUs) to meet stringent performance targets, fuel economy goals, and emissions regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of internal combustion engine principles, vehicle dynamics, and modern calibration tools and methodologies. This is an on-site position that requires hands‑on work with vehicles, dynamometers, and data acquisition systems. You will collaborate closely with powertrain design engineers, test engineers, and vehicle integration teams to refine powertrain software and ensure optimal vehicle operation across diverse driving conditions. Join a company that is committed to engineering excellence and innovation in powertrain technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Calibrate engine and transmission control modules for performance, fuel economy, and emissions.
• Develop and execute test plans for powertrain calibration using dynamometers and test vehicles.
• Analyze real-time engine and vehicle data to identify calibration issues and opportunities for improvement.
• Modify engine control software parameters to achieve desired performance characteristics and drivability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant emissions regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with powertrain design and development teams to integrate calibration requirements.
• Document calibration strategies, test results, and final calibration settings.
• Troubleshoot powertrain related issues identified during testing or by customers.
• Stay updated on the latest powertrain technologies, calibration tools, and regulatory changes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in automotive powertrain calibration.
• Proficiency with engine calibration tools (e.g., ETAS INCA, ATI Vision, CANape) and data acquisition systems.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engine operation, thermodynamics, and emissions control systems.
• Experience with manual transmission and/or automatic transmission calibration is required.
• Familiarity with vehicle diagnostic tools and communication protocols (CAN, OBD-II).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively on testing schedules.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company-sponsored retirement plan.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and training on new technologies.
• Access to state-of-the-art testing facilities.
• Career growth potential within the organization.