Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings

Vehicle benefits

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, seeks a Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to lead the design, development, testing and validation of advanced powertrain systems, including ICE and HEV/EV propulsion.

The role requires 6+ years of experience, expertise in powertrain simulation tools (GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink, AVL Concerto), and a strong grasp of thermodynamics, dynamics and durability, with a proven ability to collaborate across engineering and manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 6+ years of experience in automotive powertrain design, development, or testing.
• Proven experience with internal combustion engines (ICE) and/or hybrid/electric vehicle (HEV/EV) powertrains.
• Proficiency with powertrain simulation and analysis software (e.g., GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink, AVL Concerto).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mechanical design principles.
• Experience with data acquisition systems and powertrain testing procedures.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical and/or electrical components and systems for automotive powertrains.
• Conduct performance simulations and analysis using tools like GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar.
• Oversee and participate in powertrain testing and validation activities, both on dynamometers and in vehicles.
• Analyze test data to identify issues, optimize performance, and ensure compliance with regulations and specifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including vehicle integration, manufacturing, and sourcing, to ensure successful product development.
• Develop technical specifications and requirements for powertrain components and systems.
• Troubleshoot powertrain-related issues encountered during development, testing, or production.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in automotive powertrain development, including electrification and alternative fuels.
• Author technical reports, documentation, and presentations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team technical growth.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent automotive manufacturer known for its innovative powertrain technologies, is seeking a Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer . This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a combination of on-site work at their **East London, Eastern Cape, ZA** facility and remote flexibility. You will be responsible for the design, development, testing, and validation of advanced powertrain systems, including engines, transmissions, and hybrid/electric powertrains. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in internal combustion engines and/or electric vehicle powertrains, coupled with a strong understanding of performance, emissions, and durability requirements. You will play a key role in shaping the future of automotive propulsion for our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical and/or electrical components and systems for automotive powertrains.
• Conduct performance simulations and analysis using tools like GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar.
• Oversee and participate in powertrain testing and validation activities, both on dynamometers and in vehicles.
• Analyze test data to identify issues, optimize performance, and ensure compliance with regulations and specifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including vehicle integration, manufacturing, and sourcing, to ensure successful product development.
• Develop technical specifications and requirements for powertrain components and systems.
• Troubleshoot powertrain-related issues encountered during development, testing, or production.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in automotive powertrain development, including electrification and alternative fuels.
• Author technical reports, documentation, and presentations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team technical growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in automotive powertrain design, development, or testing.
• Proven experience with internal combustion engines (ICE) and/or hybrid/electric vehicle (HEV/EV) powertrains.
• Proficiency with powertrain simulation and analysis software (e.g., GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink, AVL Concerto).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mechanical design principles.
• Experience with data acquisition systems and powertrain testing procedures.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a hybrid team environment.
• Familiarity with automotive industry standards and development processes.
• Experience with battery management systems (BMS) or electric motor control is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement savings, and vehicle benefits. The hybrid work model supports a healthy work-life balance. Employees benefit from opportunities for continuous professional development, including advanced technical training and opportunities to attend industry conferences. Work on exciting projects that are shaping the future of automotive technology from our **East London, Eastern Cape, ZA** facility, with the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement. Join a team dedicated to automotive innovation and performance.