Lead Automotive Powertrain Engineer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 2,470,000 - 3,623,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary

Equity options

Global health, dental, vision

Stock options

Professional development budget

Home office stipend

Flexible working hours

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Automotive Powertrain Engineer to spearhead the design, development, and optimization of next‑gen hybrid and electric powertrains for a remote development team. The role emphasizes strategic leadership, cross‑functional collaboration, and cutting‑edge propulsion technology.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in powertrain engineering, strong leadership skills, and deep knowledge of internal combustion and electric propulsion systems.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in automotive powertrain engineering with hybrid/electric focus.
• Experience leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in powertrain design, simulation, and performance analysis.
• Knowledge of motors, batteries, and energy management systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, simulation, development, and validation of advanced powertrains (HEV, PHEV, BEV).
• Define architecture and KPIs aligned with vehicle objectives.
• Mentor a team of powertrain engineers and foster collaboration.
• Oversee control strategies for optimal performance and emissions compliance.
• Collaborate with chassis, electrical, and software teams for integration.
• Test and validate powertrain components both virtually and physically.
• Analyze data and drive design iterations; stay updated on trends.
• Prepare technical reports and project updates for senior management.

Skills

Powertrain engineering

Team leadership

Remote collaboration

Strategic thinking

Education

Master’s or PhD in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering

Tools

GT-SUITE

MATLAB/Simulink

Power electronics

Vehicle dynamics analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in automotive innovation, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Automotive Powertrain Engineer to join their cutting-edge, fully remote development team. This pivotal role will involve steering the design, development, and optimization of next-generation hybrid and electric vehicle powertrains. You will be instrumental in driving technological advancements and ensuring our client remains at the forefront of sustainable automotive solutions. As a remote-first company, we empower our engineers with the flexibility and resources to excel from anywhere, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented environment. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a proven history of leading complex powertrain projects from concept to production, possessing a deep understanding of both internal combustion engines and electric propulsion systems. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of automotive technology and contribute to a cleaner, more efficient world.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, simulation, development, and validation of advanced automotive powertrains (HEV, PHEV, BEV).
• Define powertrain architecture and key performance indicators (KPIs) in alignment with vehicle objectives.
• Manage and mentor a team of powertrain engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Oversee the development of powertrain control strategies, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and emissions compliance.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including chassis, electrical, and software engineering to ensure seamless integration.
• Conduct rigorous testing and validation of powertrain components and systems, both virtually and physically.
• Analyze test data and simulation results to identify areas for improvement and drive design iterations.
• Stay abreast of emerging powertrain technologies, industry trends, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and project updates to senior management.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain engineering, with a significant focus on hybrid and electric vehicle technology.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in powertrain design, simulation (e.g., GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink), and performance analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of electric motors, batteries, power electronics, and energy management systems.
• Familiarity with internal combustion engine technology and emissions standards.
• Strong understanding of automotive systems integration and vehicle dynamics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to thrive in a fully remote, collaborative work setting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive-level salary and bonus structure.
• Equity options in a leading automotive technology company.
• Comprehensive global health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous stock options and long-term incentive plans.
• Significant professional development budget and opportunities for advanced training.
• Executive-level home office setup and technology stipend.
• Flexible working hours and ample paid time off.
• Chance to lead transformative projects in the future of mobility.
• A dynamic, inclusive, and globally distributed team culture.