Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Pension fund

Access to R&D facilities

Career advancement

Collaborative, innovative environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal to lead the design, development, calibration, and testing of advanced powertrain systems, including engines and transmissions. You will drive performance, emissions, and efficiency improvements while aligning with regulatory standards.

The role requires hands-on testing with dynamometers, strong thermodynamics knowledge, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust, innovative

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in automotive powertrain development.
• Strong knowledge of IC engines, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
• Hands-on experience with engine dynamometers and emissions measurement.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of powertrain systems including engine and transmission components.
• Perform detailed performance and emissions testing on engine test benches and prototypes.
• Conduct thermodynamic and combustion analyses to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
• Develop and refine engine control strategies and calibration parameters using industry tools.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure powertrain integration meets performance targets.
• Analyze test data, troubleshoot issues, and implement design solutions.

Skills

Powertrain development

Thermodynamics

Combustion analysis

Data analysis

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-Power

AVL BOOST

INCA

Engine dynamometers

Emissions testing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of automotive innovation, committed to developing efficient and powerful powertrain solutions. They are actively seeking a highly motivated Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer to join their esteemed engineering team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is crucial for the design, development, calibration, and testing of advanced internal combustion engines, hybrid systems, and potentially electric powertrains. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of thermodynamics, combustion processes, and engine control systems, coupled with hands-on experience in a dynamic automotive R&D environment. You will be responsible for optimizing powertrain performance, emissions, and fuel economy, ensuring compliance with evolving global regulations. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on the performance and sustainability of future vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of automotive powertrain systems, including engine and transmission components.
• Perform detailed performance and emissions testing on engine test benches and in-vehicle prototypes.
• Conduct complex thermodynamic and combustion analysis to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
• Develop and refine engine control strategies and calibration parameters using industry-standard tools.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure powertrain integration meets vehicle performance targets.
• Analyze test data, troubleshoot issues, and implement design solutions to enhance powertrain reliability and durability.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management and project stakeholders.
• Stay updated on emerging powertrain technologies, including electrification and alternative fuels.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience specifically in automotive powertrain development.
• Strong theoretical knowledge of internal combustion engines, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Hands-on experience with engine dynamometers, emissions measurement equipment, and data acquisition systems.
• Proficiency in engine simulation software (e.g., GT-Power, AVL BOOST) and calibration tools (e.g., INCA).
• Experience with hybrid or electric vehicle powertrains is a significant advantage.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Must be legally eligible to work in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• An annual salary package of up to .
• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• Contribution to a reputable pension fund.
• Access to advanced research and development facilities.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment.