Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Comprehensive medical and retirement

Generous annual leave

relocation assistance may beAvailable

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is seeking a Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to lead design, development, calibration and validation of ICE, hybrid and EV powertrains. The role emphasizes performance, efficiency and emissions control, with a hybrid work model balancing on-site collaboration and remote days.

You will analyze powertrain performance, optimize control strategies, oversee testing on dynos and in vehicles, and mentor junior engineers while contributing to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering.
• 7+ years in automotive powertrain development.
• Experience with ICE, hybrid and EV architectures.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation software and tools.
• Hands-on engine/vehicle testing and calibration experience.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, calibration, and validation of ICE, hybrid, and EV powertrains.
• Conduct performance analysis and optimize control strategies for efficiency and power.
• Develop and execute testing plans on dynamometers and vehicles.
• Collaborate with chassis, vehicle integration, and manufacturing engineers.
• Utilize advanced simulation tools for modeling and performance prediction.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex powertrain issues during development and production.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies and regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and share knowledge within the team.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management.

Skills

Powertrain design

GT-SUITE

MATLAB/Simulink

Engine calibration

Hybrid/EV powertrains

Testing & validation

Team collaboration

Education

Mech/Auto Eng degree

Tools

GT-SUITE

MATLAB/Simulink

Dynamometer testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in automotive engineering, is seeking an experienced Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to join their team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work on the development and optimization of advanced powertrain systems for future vehicle generations. You will contribute significantly to enhancing performance, efficiency, and emissions control, driving innovation in a key area of automotive technology. The position involves a hybrid work model, allowing for a balance between collaborative on-site work and flexible remote days. This is an ideal role for a seasoned powertrain specialist looking to make a substantial impact within a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, calibration, and validation of internal combustion engine (ICE), hybrid, and electric vehicle (EV) powertrains.
• Conduct performance analysis and optimize engine and transmission control strategies for maximum efficiency and power output.
• Develop and execute testing plans for powertrain components and systems, both on dynamometers and in vehicles.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including chassis, vehicle integration, and manufacturing engineers.
• Utilize advanced simulation tools for powertrain modeling and performance prediction.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex powertrain-related issues during development and production.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies, regulations, and industry best practices.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team knowledge sharing.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management and project teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive powertrain development and engineering.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and internal combustion engine principles.
• Experience with hybrid and electric vehicle powertrain components and architectures.
• Proficiency in powertrain simulation software (e.g., GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Hands-on experience with engine/vehicle testing and calibration tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.
• Exposure to cutting-edge powertrain technologies and projects.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment in Mossel Bay, Western Cape.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.