Remote Lead Automotive Powertrain Engineer

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 2,470,000 - 3,787,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Flexible remote work

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Lead Automotive Powertrain Engineer to drive the design, simulation, testing, and optimization of ICE, hybrid, and EV powertrains. You will define architectures, targets, and roadmaps while mentoring a global team of engineers in a fully remote setting.

The role requires 10+ years in powertrain engineering with at least 4 years in a leadership position, along with strong expertise in engine control, emissions, and battery management systems.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering or related field
• 10+ years of automotive powertrain experience
• At least 4 years in a leadership/lead engineer role
• Experience with ICE, hybrid, EV powertrains
• Strong knowledge of engine control, emissions, and battery management systems
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation and data acquisition
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills
• Excellent problem-solving and communication abilities

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end development of powertrain systems (ICE, hybrid, EV)
• Define architecture, performance targets, and roadmaps
• Mentor a team of powertrain engineers
• Oversee design, simulation, and testing of components and systems
• Develop calibration strategies for ECUs and energy management
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for integration
• Stay updated on technologies, trends, and regulations
• Conduct technical reviews and analyze test data
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards and emissions

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Analytical skills

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-SUITE

MATLAB/Simulink

Data acquisition

Job description

About the Role Our client is looking for an accomplished and forward-thinking Remote Lead Automotive Powertrain Engineer to spearhead the development of advanced powertrain systems. This is a critical, fully remote position focused on the design, simulation, testing, and optimization of internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicle powertrains. You will lead a global team of engineers, setting technical direction, driving innovation, and ensuring that our powertrain solutions meet the highest standards of performance, efficiency, and emissions compliance. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of automotive propulsion from anywhere in the world, contributing to groundbreaking projects within a leading automotive technology company.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end development lifecycle of automotive powertrain systems, including ICE, hybrid, and EV powertrains.
• Define powertrain architecture, performance targets, and technology roadmaps.
• Manage and mentor a team of powertrain engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Oversee the design, simulation (e.g., using GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink), and testing of powertrain components and systems.
• Develop and implement calibration strategies for engine control units (ECUs) and energy management systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including vehicle integration, chassis, and manufacturing, to ensure seamless powertrain integration.
• Stay abreast of emerging powertrain technologies, market trends, and regulatory requirements globally.
• Conduct technical reviews, analyze test data, and provide solutions to complex engineering challenges.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant automotive standards and emissions regulations.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders, presenting technical findings and project status updates in a remote setting.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain engineering, with at least 4 years in a leadership or lead engineer role.
• Extensive experience with powertrain design, simulation, and testing methodologies.
• Proven expertise in ICE, hybrid, and/or electric vehicle powertrain architectures and components.
• Strong knowledge of engine control systems, fuel injection, emissions control, and battery management systems.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation tools and data acquisition systems.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively and independently in a fully remote, global team environment.
• Strong understanding of automotive industry trends and future mobility challenges.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, substantial performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package. Employees enjoy significant flexibility, professional development opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge powertrain technologies. Join a dynamic team that is at the forefront of automotive innovation and contribute to shaping the future of sustainable mobility.