Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Housing options

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer for Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will lead design, development, testing, and calibration of engines, hybrids, and future powertrain tech, applying thermodynamics, combustion, and emissions knowledge to deliver durable, efficient systems.

The role requires hands-on testing with dynamometer facilities, use of GT-Power and MATLAB/Simulink, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and mentorship of junior engineers.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in automotive powertrain development, with a strong focus on engine design, calibration, and testing.
• In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, combustion physics, fuel injection, and emissions control technologies.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation and analysis software (e.g., GT-Power, MATLAB/Simulink, AVL Concerto).
• Experience with vehicle emissions testing procedures and compliance requirements (e.g., Euro standards).
• Strong understanding of vehicle integration and the interaction between powertrain and other vehicle systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and the ability to manage complex technical projects.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of new powertrain systems, including engines, transmissions, and hybrid components.
• Conduct performance, durability, and emissions testing of prototype and production powertrains using state-of-the-art dynamometer facilities.
• Develop and refine engine calibration strategies to meet performance targets, fuel economy requirements, and regulatory emissions standards.
• Utilize advanced simulation tools (e.g., GT-Power, AVL Concerto) for powertrain modeling, analysis, and optimization.
• Troubleshoot powertrain-related issues, identify root causes, and implement effective engineering solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including vehicle integration, software development, and manufacturing, to ensure seamless powertrain deployment.
• Author detailed technical reports, present findings to management, and contribute to design reviews.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on powertrain development best practices.

Skills

Powertrain leadership

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Ph.D. in Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-Power

MATLAB/Simulink

AVL Concerto

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in automotive innovation, has an exciting opening for a Senior Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This role is critical in the design, development, testing, and calibration of advanced internal combustion engines, hybrid systems, and future powertrain technologies. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in powertrain engineering, a strong understanding of thermodynamics, combustion processes, and emissions regulations. You will be responsible for leading complex powertrain projects, from concept to production, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and durability. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the cutting edge of automotive technology in a beautiful coastal location like Mossel Bay, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of new powertrain systems, including engines, transmissions, and hybrid components.
• Conduct performance, durability, and emissions testing of prototype and production powertrains using state-of-the-art dynamometer facilities.
• Develop and refine engine calibration strategies to meet performance targets, fuel economy requirements, and regulatory emissions standards.
• Utilize advanced simulation tools (e.g., GT-Power, AVL Cruise) for powertrain modeling, analysis, and optimization.
• Troubleshoot powertrain-related issues, identify root causes, and implement effective engineering solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including vehicle integration, software development, and manufacturing, to ensure seamless powertrain deployment.
• Author detailed technical reports, present findings to management, and contribute to design reviews.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on powertrain development best practices.
• Stay informed about emerging powertrain technologies, industry trends, and competitor advancements.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in automotive powertrain development, with a strong focus on engine design, calibration, and testing.
• In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, combustion physics, fuel injection, and emissions control technologies.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation and analysis software (e.g., GT-Power, MATLAB/Simulink, AVL Concerto).
• Experience with vehicle emissions testing procedures and compliance requirements (e.g., Euro standards).
• Strong understanding of vehicle integration and the interaction between powertrain and other vehicle systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and the ability to manage complex technical projects.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Significant impact on next-generation powertrain development in Mossel Bay, Western Cape.
• Access to world-class testing facilities and advanced simulation tools.
• Opportunities for professional growth and international collaboration.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Subsidized housing options may be available.