Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Retirement planning

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to lead design, development, and calibration of ICE, EV, and HEV powertrains, driving efficiency and emissions reductions while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The role blends on-site work with remote collaboration, requiring strong analytical skills, leadership experience, and a track record in powertrain simulations and dynamometer testing.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain development.
• Knowledge of ICE, EV, or HEV powertrains.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation tools (GT-SUITE, AVL Concerto, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Experience with dynamometer testing and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, combustion, and vehicle dynamics.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Hybrid work experience and collaborative mindset.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and calibration of powertrain components and systems.
• Conduct performance analysis, simulations, and testing to optimize efficiency and emissions.
• Collaborate with chassis, electrical, and software teams for integration.
• Develop and implement testing strategies for powertrains and vehicles.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex powertrain issues across development stages.
• Prepare design specs, test reports, and validation plans.
• Stay abreast of trends in powertrain tech, fuels, and electrification.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership.
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards and emissions regulations.

Skills

Powertrain engineering

Analytical problem-solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-SUITE

AVL Concerto

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent name in the automotive manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to join their innovative team in Benoni, Gauteng. This role is critical in the design, development, and optimization of advanced powertrain systems, focusing on performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction. You will leverage your expertise to drive cutting-edge powertrain technology forward. This is a hybrid role, offering a blend of collaborative work at our Benoni, Gauteng facility and flexible remote work arrangements. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in internal combustion engines, electric vehicle powertrains, or hybrid systems, with a strong analytical and problem-solving aptitude. Join a company that is committed to shaping the future of automotive mobility through technological excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and calibration of automotive powertrain components and systems, including engines, transmissions, and hybrid/electric drivetrains.
• Conduct in-depth performance analysis, simulations, and experimental testing to optimize powertrain efficiency, power output, and emissions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including chassis, electrical, and software engineering, to ensure seamless integration of powertrain systems.
• Develop and implement testing strategies for powertrain components and complete vehicles.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex powertrain-related issues throughout the development lifecycle.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and validation plans.
• Stay current with emerging trends in powertrain technology, such as alternative fuels, advanced battery systems, and electrification strategies.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership within the powertrain engineering group.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant automotive standards and regulations related to powertrain performance and emissions.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain development.
• In-depth knowledge of internal combustion engine (ICE) technology, electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, or hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) systems.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation tools (e.g., GT-SUITE, AVL Concerto, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Experience with dynamometer testing and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, combustion principles, and vehicle dynamics.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective team collaboration.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, retirement planning support, and excellent opportunities for professional development and career growth. This hybrid role provides a great work-life balance and the chance to work on exciting, future-focused automotive projects in Benoni, Gauteng . Join a team dedicated to innovation and excellence in automotive engineering.