Senior Powertrain Engineer - Hybrid & EV Systems Lead

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Training opportunities

Attendance at international conference

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer for its advanced engineering division in Polokwane, Limpopo. The role focuses on designing, developing, and optimizing powertrain systems to enhance performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction.

The candidate will lead cross-functional teams, drive powertrain simulations, calibration, testing, and regulatory compliance while mentoring junior engineers and shaping propulsion technologies for sustainable mobility.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering or related field.
• 7–10 years of progressive automotive powertrain experience.
• Expertise in engines, hybrids, or EV powertrains.
• Experience with powertrain simulations and testing procedures.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of powertrain components and systems (engine, transmission, electric motor, battery systems).
• Perform performance simulations and analysis using GT-Power, AVL excite, or similar.
• Develop and validate powertrain control strategies to optimize efficiency and emissions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including vehicle integration, calibration, and manufacturing.
• Define technical requirements and specifications for powertrain components and systems.
• Oversee prototype builds, testing, and validation activities, analyzing results to drive design improvements.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory emission standards and fuel economy targets.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex powertrain-related issues throughout the development lifecycle.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to best practices in powertrain engineering.

Skills

Powertrain development

Powertrain simulation

Engine calibration

Data analysis

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related discipline

Tools

GT-Power

AVL Excite

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer for its advanced engineering division in Polokwane, Limpopo. The role focuses on designing, developing, and optimizing powertrain systems to enhance performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction.

The candidate will lead cross-functional teams, drive powertrain simulations, calibration, testing, and regulatory compliance while mentoring junior engineers and shaping propulsion technologies for sustainable mobility.