Senior Powertrain Development Engineer - On-site Rustenburg

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Bonuses

Medical + retirement benefits

Leave entitlement

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, is seeking an experienced Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer to design, simulate, test, and calibrate engines and hybrid powertrains for performance and emissions compliance.

You will work with cross-functional teams, optimize for durability and fuel efficiency, and contribute to advanced R&D in a state-of-the-art facility in Rustenburg.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related discipline.
• 6+ years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain development, focusing on engine or transmission design.
• Expertise in powertrain simulation and modeling tools.
• Hands-on experience with powertrain testing, data acquisition, and analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and internal combustion engine principles.
• Knowledge of hybrid powertrain architectures and EV powertrain components is advantageous.
• Familiarity with emissions regulations and standards in automotive industry.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop advanced powertrain components, including engines, transmissions, and hybrid systems, optimizing for performance, durability and fuel efficiency.
• Conduct detailed simulations using GT-Power and AVL Cruise to predict powertrain behavior.
• Develop and execute testing strategies for prototype and production powertrains, including dynamometer testing and on-road validation.
• Analyze test data, identify issues, and implement design modifications to resolve performance or emissions concerns.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless powertrain integration into the vehicle chassis and systems.
• Calibrate engine control units (ECUs) to meet performance targets and emissions regulations.
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements affecting powertrain development.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for project reviews and stakeholder updates.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing and quality teams during production phases.

Skills

Powertrain design

Powertrain simulation

Testing & data analysis

Project management

Engineering communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-Power

AVL Cruise

Data acquisition systems

Job description

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, is seeking an experienced Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer to design, simulate, test, and calibrate engines and hybrid powertrains for performance and emissions compliance.

You will work with cross-functional teams, optimize for durability and fuel efficiency, and contribute to advanced R&D in a state-of-the-art facility in Rustenburg.