Powertrain Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job description:

SAPA Transmission, a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) contractor, is seeking a highly experienced Powertrain Engineer to support the modeling, simulation, and system-level integration of the Advanced Combat Transmission (ACT) across a wide range of vehicle architectures. This role serves as a technical subject-matter expert for analytical activities, concept evaluations, and customer-focused solution studies involving multiple engine configurations, hybridization strategies, and mission profiles. The ideal candidate combines deep powertrain systems expertise with strong analytical, communication, and customer-engagement skills.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain vehicle-level powertrain models (1D, multi-physics, and control-oriented) to evaluate ACT transmission integration.
• Perform performance, efficiency, thermal, durability, and drivability analyses across diverse vehicle platforms.
• Conduct trade studies comparing engine configurations, torque curves, gear ratios, cooling strategies, and system boundaries.
• Validate analytical predictions using test data, simulation tools, and cross-functional engineering inputs.
• Develop concept-level powertrain architectures utilizing various engine technologies, including diesel, gasoline, hybrid, turbine, and alternative fuels.
• Prepare and present technical analyses, performance projections, and integration assessments to OEM and defense customers.
• Serve as a key technical contact supporting customer powertrain integration inquiries.
• Support business development efforts through technical input for proposals, technical responses, and feasibility assessments.
• Define interface requirements for engines, cooling systems, vehicle controls, and driveline components interacting with the ACT transmission.
• Provide technical guidance to vehicle OEMs on ACT packaging, mounting, lubrication, cooling loops, and control system interfaces.
• Collaborate with mechanical, controls, software, testing, and manufacturing teams to ensure robust system integration.
• Mentor junior engineers through technical guidance in modeling, simulation, and powertrain analysis.
• Develop and maintain powertrain analysis tools, models, and best practices.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance integration efficiency and analytical accuracy.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline; Master’s degree preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in powertrain systems engineering, vehicle integration, or transmission/engine modeling.
• Strong expertise with modeling tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Creo, Siemens NX, or equivalent.
• Deep understanding of internal combustion engines, vehicle dynamics, drivelines, and control systems.
• Demonstrated experience performing tradeoff analyses, concept studies, and customer-facing technical presentations.
• Ability to interpret complex data, lead technical discussions, and provide clear recommendations.
• Experience with military/defense vehicle systems or heavy-duty powertrains.
• Knowledge of hybrid-electric powertrain integration and control strategy development.
• Familiarity with thermal modeling, NVH, and durability prediction techniques.

Benefits:

• 6% retirement plan contribution by SAPA Transmission (regardless of employee contribution to 401k plan).
• Paid Holiday, Time Off (PTO), and sick time.
• Medical, Rx, dental, vision and life insurance benefits with minimal employee contribution.
• Short and long-term disability.

SAPA Transmission is an Equal Opportunity Employer