Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, is seeking a Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to lead development, calibration, and testing of advanced internal combustion engines and hybrid systems.

You will optimize performance, emissions, and drivability, mentor engineers, and collaborate with R&D, manufacturing and suppliers to deliver cutting-edge powertrains in a dynamic, on-site environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.
• 7+ years in automotive powertrain development and calibration.
• Strong grasp of thermodynamics and engine mechanics.
• Experience with dynos, data acquisition, and calibration software.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and integrate advanced ICE and hybrid powertrains.
• Perform engine testing, data analysis, and calibration.
• Optimize parameters for power, efficiency, and emissions.
• Develop and validate powertrain control strategies and software.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure component quality.
• Mentor junior engineers and share technical knowledge.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Automotive Engineering

Tools

INCA

ETAS

GT-SUITE

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious automotive manufacturer known for its performance-driven vehicles, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to join their advanced engineering team in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA. This role is central to the design, development, calibration, and testing of cutting-edge internal combustion engines and hybrid powertrains. You will be instrumental in optimizing performance, efficiency, emissions, and drivability, pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. This is an on-site position requiring close collaboration with R&D, manufacturing, and testing departments. We are looking for a passionate engineer with a deep understanding of thermodynamics, engine mechanics, and modern powertrain technologies, eager to contribute to the next generation of automotive propulsion systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and integrate advanced internal combustion engines and hybrid powertrain systems.
• Perform engine performance and emissions testing, data analysis, and calibration using state-of-the-art equipment.
• Optimize engine parameters for power, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance using calibration tools.
• Develop and validate powertrain control strategies and software.
• Collaborate with component suppliers to ensure the quality and performance of powertrain parts.
• Conduct simulations and modeling to predict and improve powertrain performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve powertrain-related issues during development, testing, and production phases.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies, including electrification and alternative fuels.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical knowledge sharing within the team.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant automotive standards and regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain development and calibration.
• In-depth knowledge of internal combustion engine principles, thermodynamics, and mechanical design.
• Proficiency with engine dynamometers, data acquisition systems, and calibration software (e.g., INCA, ETAS).
• Experience with hybrid powertrain architectures and electric propulsion systems is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and leadership capabilities.
• Familiarity with powertrain simulation tools (e.g., GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA.
• Passion for automotive performance and innovation.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for advanced training, professional development, and career growth.
• Access to cutting-edge automotive testing facilities.
• Be part of developing the future of automotive powertrains.
• Dynamic and challenging work environment.