Lead Systems Engineer - ECM Integration

• Job Category Systems Engineering
• Employee Type Exempt

The Lead ECM Integration Systems Engineer is responsible for leading the powertrain - level integration of the internal combustion engine and engine control module (ECM) into Karma Automotive’s hybrid and electric vehicle platforms. This role serves as the technical focal point between Karma and suppliers, ensuring engine system functionality, drivability, calibration alignment, diagnostics, and regulatory compliance are successfully integrated and validated at the powertrain and vehicle level.

• Serve as the technical owner for engine and ECM SW integration at the powertrain system level, acting as the primary interface between Karma Automotive and suppliers.
• Define and manage engine-to-powertrain interfaces, including torque request/response, operating modes, fault handling, and interaction with hybrid control systems.
• Lead engine system integration activities, ensuring proper coordination between ECM software, hybrid control, battery systems, and vehicle supervisory controls.
• Coordinate OBD II / emissions compliance activities, including diagnostic responsibility allocation, monitor integration, and regulatory support (e.g., CARB/EPA readiness).
• Lead requirements definition, interface documentation, and system architecture artifacts related to engine and ECM integration.
• Support functional safety (FuSa) and cybersecurity integration at the engine/ECM system boundary in alignment with vehicle-level safety concepts.
• Participate in and lead system reviews, issue resolution, and technical escalations with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Support vehicle integration, validation, and launch activities, including HiL, vehicle testing, track testing, and field issue investigation.
• Support vehicle-level calibration direction for engine drivability, performance, and emissions, working closely with calibration teams in suppliers.
• Other duties, as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of experience in engine systems, powertrain control, or vehicle integration, preferably in an OEM or Tier-1 supplier environment.
• Hands-on experience with engine control systems and ECM integration.
• Strong background in vehicle-level system integration, including torque management and powertrain coordination.
• Demonstrated experience leading Functional Safety (ISO 26262) and Cybersecurity (ISO/SAE 21434) activities for automotive ECU or powertrain systems.
• Hands-on experience supporting or leading engine calibration and drivability tuning.
• Working knowledge of OBD II diagnostics and emissions compliance requirements.
• Good exposure to ASPICE, Agile, and AUTOSAR.
• Solid experience collaborating with external suppliers.
• Proficient in CAN communication protocols and related engineering tools.
• Experienced in Software-, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (SIL/HIL) testing for ECUs.
• Familiarity with hybrid vehicle architecture and engine-motor interaction is strongly preferred.
• Basic knowledge of Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001:2015) and Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001:2015), as applicable.

Note: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee should have the:

• Ability to frequently use or operate a computer, mouse, and/or other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
• Ab…