Senior Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Presencial; ZAR 900.000 - 1.200.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive annual salary

Medical aid, dental, and optical

Pension fund contribution

Advanced training and certifications

Access to engine test facilities

Paid time off and holidays

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer to join our dynamic Port Elizabeth team. You will calibrate ECUs across gasoline, diesel and alternative fuels to optimize performance, emissions, and drivability while meeting global standards.

You will work with cutting-edge engine technologies, develop robust test plans on dynamometers and in-vehicle platforms, and mentor junior engineers. A strong background in engine thermodynamics and data analysis is essential.

Formación

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering required.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on engine calibration experience.
• Strong knowledge of ECUs, calibration methods, and drivability.
• Experience with emissions regulations and engine test cycles.
• Proficiency with calibration tools like ETAS INCA, ATI Vision, dSPACE.

Responsabilidades

• Calibrate ECM/ECUs for gasoline, diesel, and alternative fuel engines.
• Optimize parameters for performance, fuel economy, and emissions.
• Develop test plans on dynamometers and in-vehicle testing.
• Collaborate with design teams and mentor junior engineers.
• Maintain calibration documentation and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Stay updated on new engine technologies and calibration techniques.

Conocimientos

Engine calibration

ECU programming

Data analysis

Thermodynamics

Emissions standards

Educación

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Herramientas

ETAS INCA

ATI Vision

dSPACE

Descripción del empleo

About the Role Our client is a dynamic and rapidly growing automotive solutions provider, renowned for its cutting-edge engine technology and commitment to performance excellence. We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Automotive Powertrain Calibration Engineer to join our innovative team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This key position involves the meticulous calibration of engine control units (ECUs) to optimize performance, fuel efficiency, emissions, and drivability for a diverse range of vehicle models. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring our powertrains meet stringent global standards while delivering an exceptional driving experience. This is an exciting opportunity to work with advanced engine technologies and contribute directly to the development of high-quality automotive products. We are dedicated to fostering a collaborative and results-oriented work environment where your expertise will be highly valued and rewarded. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of internal combustion engines and sophisticated calibration methodologies. We are committed to professional growth and provide ample resources for continuous learning and skill development.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform in-depth calibration of engine control modules (ECMs) for gasoline, diesel, and alternative fuel engines.
• Optimize engine parameters for performance, fuel economy, emissions, and drivability using advanced calibration tools.
• Develop and execute test plans on dynamometers and in-vehicle, collecting and analyzing critical performance data.
• Collaborate with engine design and development teams to provide feedback on component design and performance.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant emissions regulations and standards (e.g., Euro VI, EPA standards).
• Utilize data acquisition systems and calibration software (e.g., ETAS INCA, ATI Vision) to tune engine strategies.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose powertrain performance issues, implementing effective calibration solutions.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of calibration strategies, test results, and changes made.
• Mentor junior calibration engineers, sharing expertise and best practices.
• Stay abreast of new engine technologies and calibration techniques.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a closely related field. Master's degree is a strong plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in automotive engine calibration.
• Proven expertise in calibrating ECUs for performance, emissions, and drivability.
• Proficiency with calibration software and tools such as ETAS INCA, ATI Vision, dSPACE, or similar.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engine principles, thermodynamics, and combustion processes.
• Experience with data acquisition systems and engine dynamometers.
• Familiarity with emissions regulations and testing procedures.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to interpret complex engine data and translate it into actionable calibration adjustments.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, dental, and optical coverage.
• Generous pension fund contribution.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Access to cutting‑edge engine test facilities and equipment.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• A supportive and innovative work environment in Port Elizabeth .