Principal Automotive Powertrain Specialist

Placements24; Pretoria; Remote; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Bonuses

Health insurance

Professional development

Global brand

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Automotive Powertrain Specialist to drive strategy and lead a high‑performing engineering team in a fully remote capacity. You will shape powertrain architectures across ICE and electrified platforms, mentor engineers, and influence product roadmaps with a focus on efficiency, emissions, and durability.

The role demands a Master’s/PhD in a relevant field, 10+ years of experience, and strong leadership in powertrain design and simulations.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in mechanical/automotive engineering.
• 10+ years in powertrain design, development, and integration.
• Expertise in engine design, performance tuning, and hybrid/electric systems.
• Proven leadership of complex engineering programs from concept to production.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of new powertrain technologies and architectures.
• Oversee design, simulation, testing, and validation of subsystems.
• Provide mentorship to powertrain teams and guide career growth.
• Define strategies aligned with business goals and market trends.
• Analyze performance data to optimize efficiency and emissions.
• Collaborate with R&D, vehicle integration, and manufacturing.
• Stay abreast of electrification, hybrids, and advanced combustion.
• Represent company in technical forums and industry groups.
• Ensure compliance with global regulations and emissions standards.

Skills

Powertrain strategy

Team leadership

Engine design

Hybrid/EV powertrains

Simulation tools

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-SUITE

AMESim

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

About the Role

Our client is searching for a Principal Automotive Powertrain Specialist to join their world-class engineering division, operating in a fully remote capacity. This senior role is crucial for driving innovation and excellence in the design, development, and optimization of our advanced automotive powertrains, encompassing both internal combustion engines and emerging electric/hybrid technologies. You will be responsible for defining the technical strategy, leading complex engineering challenges, and ensuring our powertrains meet performance, efficiency, emissions, and durability targets. As a key technical authority, you will influence product roadmaps and mentor a high-performing team of engineers. This is an exceptional opportunity for a visionary leader in automotive powertrain technology to make a significant impact from the convenience of their remote workspace.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of new automotive powertrain technologies and architectures.
• Oversee the design, simulation, testing, and validation of powertrain components and systems.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to powertrain engineering teams.
• Define and drive powertrain development strategies aligned with long-term business objectives and emerging market trends.
• Analyze performance data and identify opportunities for optimization in efficiency, emissions, and power delivery.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, vehicle integration, and manufacturing.
• Stay abreast of advancements in powertrain technology, including electrification, alternative fuels, and advanced combustion strategies.
• Represent the company in technical forums and industry working groups.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and emissions standards globally.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain design, development, and integration.
• Demonstrated expertise in engine design, performance tuning, hybrid systems, or electric powertrain components.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in powertrain simulation tools (e.g., GT-SUITE, AMESim, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Proven track record of leading complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Deep understanding of combustion principles, thermodynamics, and vehicle dynamics.
• Experience with electric vehicle powertrains and battery systems is highly desirable.
• Ability to thrive in a fully remote work environment, demonstrating self-discipline and proactive communication.

Benefits

• Highly attractive compensation package, including potential for significant bonuses.
• Flexibility of a fully remote work arrangement.
• Top-tier health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
• Generous budget for professional development and conference attendance.
• Opportunity to shape the future of sustainable automotive mobility.
• Work with a globally recognized and innovative automotive brand.
• Significant influence on technical direction and product strategy.