Automotive Powertrain Engineer - Calibration

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Comprehensive benefits

Hybrid role

Continuous development

Cutting-edge technology

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Automotive Powertrain Engineer focusing on Calibration in East London, Eastern Cape. You will optimize engine and transmission control units to improve performance, emissions, and drivability using state-of-the-art tools.

The role combines hands-on calibration on-site with remote data analysis, requires 5+ years in powertrain calibration, and offers a competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.
• Minimum 5 years in automotive powertrain calibration.
• Proficiency with ETAS INCA, dSPACE ControlDesk, Vector CANape.
• Strong knowledge of IC engines, thermodynamics, and control systems.
• Experience with hybrid/electric powertrains is a plus.
• Knowledge of emissions regulations and testing procedures.
• Analytical, problem-solving and data interpretation skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Calibrate engine and transmission control modules for performance, fuel economy, and emissions.
• Develop calibration strategies for new powertrain development.
• Use dynamometers, test vehicles, and simulations for calibration testing.
• Analyze test data and recommend calibration adjustments.
• Troubleshoot powertrain performance issues related to calibration.
• Ensure calibrations comply with emissions regulations.
• Collaborate with system, hardware, and validation teams.
• Maintain detailed calibration records and methodologies.
• Stay updated on powertrain technologies and calibration techniques.
• Contribute to calibration tools and processes development.

Skills

Powertrain calibration

Data analysis

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Automotive Engineering

Tools

ETAS INCA

dSPACE ControlDesk

Vector CANape

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant contributor to the automotive supply chain, is seeking a specialized Automotive Powertrain Engineer focusing on Calibration to join their team in East London. This role is pivotal in optimizing the performance, emissions, and drivability of vehicle powertrains through expert calibration of engine and transmission control units. You will work with state‑of‑the‑art tools and technologies to fine‑tune complex systems, ensuring they meet stringent regulatory standards and customer expectations. If you have a deep understanding of internal combustion engines, hybrid systems, and calibration tools, this is an exceptional opportunity in East London, Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Calibrate engine and transmission control modules to optimize performance, fuel economy, and emissions characteristics.
• Develop and execute calibration strategies for new powertrain development and existing product improvements.
• Utilize dynamometers, test vehicles, and simulation tools to conduct calibration testing.
• Analyze test data and provide recommendations for calibration adjustments.
• Troubleshoot powertrain performance issues related to calibration.
• Ensure powertrain calibrations comply with all relevant emissions regulations (e.g., Euro standards).
• Collaborate with system engineers, hardware engineers, and validation teams to achieve project goals.
• Maintain detailed records of calibration settings, test results, and methodologies.
• Stay updated on the latest powertrain technologies, calibration techniques, and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of calibration tools and processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive powertrain development, with a strong focus on calibration.
• Proficiency with powertrain calibration tools and software (e.g., ETAS INCA, dSPACE ControlDesk, Vector CANape).
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engine operation, thermodynamics, and control systems.
• Experience with hybrid or electric vehicle powertrains and their calibration is a significant advantage.
• Knowledge of vehicle emissions regulations and testing procedures.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Valid driver's license.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for testing and project needs.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package.

This hybrid role offers flexibility, allowing for both on‑site work in East London for hands‑on calibration and remote work for data analysis and reporting.

You will have access to continuous professional development and cutting‑edge technology.

Join a leading company in the automotive sector and contribute to the future of powertrain engineering.