Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Bonuses

Medical + retirement benefits

Leave entitlement

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, is seeking an experienced Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer to design, simulate, test, and calibrate engines and hybrid powertrains for performance and emissions compliance.

You will work with cross-functional teams, optimize for durability and fuel efficiency, and contribute to advanced R&D in a state-of-the-art facility in Rustenburg.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related discipline.
• 6+ years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain development, focusing on engine or transmission design.
• Expertise in powertrain simulation and modeling tools.
• Hands-on experience with powertrain testing, data acquisition, and analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and internal combustion engine principles.
• Knowledge of hybrid powertrain architectures and EV powertrain components is advantageous.
• Familiarity with emissions regulations and standards in automotive industry.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop advanced powertrain components, including engines, transmissions, and hybrid systems, optimizing for performance, durability and fuel efficiency.
• Conduct detailed simulations using GT-Power and AVL Cruise to predict powertrain behavior.
• Develop and execute testing strategies for prototype and production powertrains, including dynamometer testing and on-road validation.
• Analyze test data, identify issues, and implement design modifications to resolve performance or emissions concerns.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless powertrain integration into the vehicle chassis and systems.
• Calibrate engine control units (ECUs) to meet performance targets and emissions regulations.
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements affecting powertrain development.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for project reviews and stakeholder updates.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing and quality teams during production phases.

Skills

Powertrain design

Powertrain simulation

Testing & data analysis

Project management

Engineering communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-Power

AVL Cruise

Data acquisition systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the automotive industry, is actively recruiting for an experienced Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer to join their advanced research and development facility in Rustenburg, North West . This pivotal role involves the design, analysis, and optimization of internal combustion engines and hybrid powertrain systems, driving performance, efficiency, and emissions compliance. You will be at the forefront of innovation, working with cutting‑edge technologies to shape the future of vehicle propulsion. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and testing teams to ensure the successful integration and validation of powertrain components. This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated engineer passionate about automotive engineering to make a tangible impact in Rustenburg, North West . Our client is committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and providing pathways for career advancement within a globally recognized organization. We seek a candidate with a strong technical foundation and a proactive approach to problem‑solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop advanced powertrain components, including engines, transmissions, and hybrid systems, optimizing for performance, durability, and fuel efficiency.
• Conduct detailed simulations and analyses using advanced software tools (e.g., GT-Power, AVL Cruise) to predict and improve powertrain behavior.
• Develop and execute testing strategies for prototype and production powertrains, including dynamometer testing and on‑road validation.
• Analyze test data, identify potential issues, and implement design modifications to resolve performance, emissions, or reliability concerns.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure seamless integration of the powertrain into the vehicle chassis and systems.
• Contribute to the calibration of engine control units (ECUs) to meet performance targets and emissions regulations.
• Stay current with industry trends, new technologies, and regulatory requirements affecting powertrain development.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for project reviews and stakeholder updates.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing and quality teams during production phases.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain development, with a focus on engine or transmission design.
• Demonstrated expertise in powertrain simulation and modeling tools.
• Hands‑on experience with powertrain testing, data acquisition, and analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and internal combustion engine principles.
• Knowledge of hybrid powertrain architectures and electric vehicle (EV) powertrain components is a significant advantage.
• Familiarity with emissions regulations and standards relevant to the automotive industry.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in project management and strong communication skills.
• Must be willing to work on‑site in Rustenburg, North West .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance coverage.
• Generous annual leave entitlement and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training courses and conference attendance.
• Access to state-of-the‑art R&D facilities and equipment.
• Employee discounts on vehicles and related services.
• A stimulating work environment focused on innovation and technical excellence in Rustenburg, North West .