Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive annual salary

Professional development opportunities

Health and retirement benefits

Global assignments potential

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, seeks an Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer to fine-tune engine and transmission control systems for optimal performance, fuel economy, and emissions using state-of-the-art tools.

You will develop calibration strategies with INCA, CANape, HSV, ETAS or similar, perform on-vehicle tests, analyze data, document parameters, and collaborate with engine and vehicle teams to ensure seamless integration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Automotive Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years in automotive powertrain calibration.
• Proficiency with calibration tools such as INCA, CANape, HSV and dSPACE.
• Strong understanding of IC engines, thermodynamics and control systems.
• Experience with engine and transmission control strategies.
• Ability to analyze complex data sets and interpret test results.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills.
• Willing to work in Vereeniging, Gauteng with travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Calibrate ECMs and TCMs for performance, fuel economy and emissions.
• Develop calibration strategies using INCA, ETAS or similar tools.
• Conduct on-vehicle and in-lab testing to validate parameters.
• Analyze test data to identify trends and implement solutions.
• Optimize engine/transmission behavior for drivability and NVH.
• Maintain calibration documentation and parameter definitions.
• Collaborate with engine and vehicle teams for system integration.
• Stay updated with powertrain tech and emissions rules.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex calibration issues.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of calibration processes.

Skills

Powertrain calibration

Engine control

Data analysis

Teamwork

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical / Electrical / Automotive Engineering

Tools

INCA

CANape

HSV

dSPACE

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in automotive powertrain development, is seeking a highly skilled Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer to join their advanced engineering team in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This critical role involves the calibration of engine and transmission control systems to optimize performance, fuel efficiency, emissions, and drivability. You will work with state-of-the-art equipment and sophisticated modeling tools to fine-tune control strategies for a variety of vehicle platforms. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical foundation in internal combustion engines, control systems, and a practical understanding of calibration tools and methodologies. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation powertrains within a dynamic and innovative company located in Vereeniging .

Key Responsibilities

• Calibrate engine control modules (ECMs) and transmission control modules (TCMs) for performance, fuel economy, and emissions targets.
• Develop and execute calibration strategies using industry-standard tools such as INCA, ETAS, or similar software.
• Conduct on-vehicle and in-lab testing to validate calibration parameters and gather data.
• Analyze test data to identify trends, diagnose issues, and implement effective calibration solutions.
• Optimize engine and transmission behavior for drivability, responsiveness, and NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness).
• Develop and maintain calibration documentation, including reports, test procedures, and parameter definitions.
• Collaborate with engine and vehicle integration teams to ensure seamless system integration.
• Stay updated with the latest powertrain technologies, emissions regulations, and calibration techniques.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex powertrain calibration issues.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of calibration processes and tools.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in automotive powertrain calibration.
• Proficiency with automotive calibration tools and software (e.g., INCA, CANape, HSV, dSPACE).
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engine principles, thermodynamics, and control systems.
• Experience with engine and transmission control strategies.
• Ability to analyze complex data sets and interpret test results.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience with emissions testing and regulations is a plus.
• Must be willing to work in Vereeniging, Gauteng , and occasionally travel for testing.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge powertrain technology.
• Professional development and advanced training opportunities.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Be part of a leading automotive R&D team.
• Exposure to global automotive standards.
• Potential for international assignments.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.