Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

State-of-the-art testing facilities

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Generous annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking a Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer to design, develop, test and validate advanced powertrains for ICE, hybrid, and EV systems. This hands-on role requires leading engineering activities at our Port Elizabeth facilities and delivering high-performance, efficient propulsion solutions.

The ideal candidate will have 7+ years in powertrain development, a relevant Mechanical or Automotive Engineering degree, and strong skills in

Qualifications

• 7+ years of automotive powertrain development experience.
• Experience in ICE design, calibration and emissions control.
• Experience with hybrid and EV powertrain components.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation tools and data acquisition.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new powertrain systems, including engine components, transmission systems, and electric drive units.
• Develop and optimize powertrain control strategies to achieve target performance, fuel economy, and emissions levels.
• Plan and execute powertrain testing programs, including dynamometer testing, vehicle testing, and component durability testing.
• Analyze test data, identify potential issues, and implement design modifications to resolve them.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and calibration engineers.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant automotive standards, regulations, and emissions requirements.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations on powertrain development progress and findings.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance throughout the development process.
• Stay abreast of emerging powertrain technologies, including advanced combustion concepts, electrification, and alternative fuels.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of powertrain development processes and methodologies.

Skills

Powertrain development

Engine calibration

Emissions control

Hybrid & EV powertrains

GT-SUITE

Amesim

Data acquisition

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-SUITE

Amesim

Data acquisition systems

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent automotive manufacturer based in Port Elizabeth , is actively seeking a highly skilled Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer. This critical role will involve the design, development, testing, and validation of advanced internal combustion engines, hybrid powertrains, and electric vehicle powertrains. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in powertrain systems, a deep understanding of thermodynamics and mechanical engineering principles, and a passion for driving innovation in sustainable mobility. You will be instrumental in ensuring our powertrains meet stringent performance, efficiency, and emissions targets, contributing significantly to the future of automotive technology in the Eastern Cape region and beyond. This position requires hands-on involvement in testing and development activities at our facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new powertrain systems, including engine components, transmission systems, and electric drive units.
• Develop and optimize powertrain control strategies to achieve target performance, fuel economy, and emissions levels.
• Plan and execute powertrain testing programs, including dynamometer testing, vehicle testing, and component durability testing.
• Analyze test data, identify potential issues, and implement design modifications to resolve them.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and calibration engineers.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant automotive standards, regulations, and emissions requirements.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations on powertrain development progress and findings.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance throughout the development process.
• Stay abreast of emerging powertrain technologies, including advanced combustion concepts, electrification, and alternative fuels.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of powertrain development processes and methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive powertrain development.
• Proven expertise in internal combustion engine design, calibration, and emissions control.
• Experience with hybrid and electric vehicle powertrain components and systems.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation tools (e.g., GT-SUITE, Amesim) and data acquisition systems.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mechanical design principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead technical teams.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments.
• Experience working in a test and development environment in Port Elizabeth is advantageous.
• A valid driver's license is required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge powertrain technologies for future vehicles.
• Access to state-of-the-art testing facilities and equipment.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plan.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• Continuous learning and professional development opportunities.
• A collaborative and performance-driven work culture.
• The chance to make a significant impact on automotive innovation in Port Elizabeth .