Automotive Powertrain Control Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & dental coverage

Professional development

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, seeks an Automotive Powertrain Control Engineer to optimize engine and HEV/BEV powertrains through advanced control strategies. You will calibrate and validate control systems for engines, transmissions, and hybrid powertrains, contributing to future vehicle development.

The role requires a strong background in control theory, embedded systems, and powertrain dynamics, with hands-on experience in calibration, testing, and data analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering with a focus on control systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced powertrain control algorithms for engines, transmissions, and HEV/BEV powertrains (≤140 chars).
• Calibrate control parameters to optimize performance, fuel economy, and emissions across conditions (≤140 chars).
• Design and execute test plans using dynamometers, vehicle tests, and simulations (≤140 chars).
• Analyze test data, identify issues, and modify strategies accordingly (≤140 chars).
• Collaborate with hardware and system engineers for seamless integration (≤140 chars).
• Maintain documentation for control strategies, calibration data, and test reports (≤140 chars).
• Troubleshoot control-related issues during development and validation (≤140 chars).
• Stay updated on new powertrain tech and regulatory requirements (≤140 chars).
• Contribute to model-based control system development and validation (≤140 chars).

Skills

C/C++ programming

Embedded systems

Control theory

Powertrain dynamics

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering (control)

Tools

INCA

CANape

ETAS

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in automotive engineering, is seeking a highly skilled Automotive Powertrain Control Engineer to join their advanced development team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This role is central to optimizing the performance, efficiency, and emissions of vehicle powertrains through sophisticated control strategies. You will be responsible for developing, calibrating, and validating control systems for engines, transmissions, and hybrid/electric powertrains. This is an exceptional opportunity for an engineer passionate about powertrain technology to make a significant impact on future vehicle development. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in control theory, embedded systems, and automotive powertrain dynamics, coupled with practical experience in calibration and testing. We are looking for a results-oriented individual who thrives in a collaborative engineering setting and is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of powertrain performance for our client.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement advanced control algorithms for internal combustion engines, transmissions, and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) powertrains. Calibrate powertrain control parameters to optimize performance, fuel economy, emissions, and drivability across various operating conditions. Design and execute test plans for powertrain control systems, utilizing dynamometers, vehicle testing, and simulation tools. Analyze test data, identify performance issues, and implement corrective actions through control strategy modifications. Collaborate with powertrain hardware engineers and system engineers to ensure the effective integration of control systems. Develop and maintain documentation for control strategies, calibration data, and test reports. Troubleshoot and resolve powertrain control-related issues encountered during development, validation, and production. Stay abreast of new powertrain technologies, control methodologies, and regulatory requirements. Contribute to the development and validation of model-based control systems.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on control systems. Minimum of 6 years of experience in automotive powertrain control development and calibration. Proficiency in C/C++ programming for embedded systems and real-time control applications. Strong understanding of internal combustion engine principles, transmission systems, and/or hybrid/electric powertrains. Experience with powertrain control calibration tools (e.g., INCA, CANape, ETAS). Familiarity with automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, UDS) and data acquisition systems. Knowledge of control theory, state machines, and feedback control systems. Experience with simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink) for control system development and analysis. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills. Strong communication and teamwork abilities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits program including health, dental, and retirement plans. Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and conference attendance, are readily available. This role provides a chance to work with cutting-edge powertrain technology in a stimulating environment. Generous paid time off, including annual leave and sick days, ensures a healthy work-life balance. The role is situated in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape , a key automotive manufacturing region. Performance-related bonuses are also a component of the compensation structure. We are committed to fostering career growth and providing a supportive workplace for our employees.