Principal Engineer – Powertrain

With over 80 years of innovation, JCB is the world’s largest privately owned manufacturer of construction and agricultural equipment. Operating 23 manufacturing facilities across four continents—including the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and Brazil—JCB produces a diverse portfolio of more than 300 products. These include telescopic handlers, backhoe loaders, excavators, wheel loaders, compact excavators, skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, access aerial work platforms, rough terrain forklifts, and tractors.

At the heart of JCB’s success are its people. As a family-owned business, we are accountable to our customers—not shareholders—which gives us the flexibility to focus on long-term innovation and delivering real value. This independence allows us to continuously develop advanced technologies and integrate them into equipment designed to perform in the toughest environments while maximizing customer productivity.

At JCB, we stand behind our products—and our name—with pride and commitment to quality.

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Principal Propulsion Systems Engineer to join our engineering team at our Savannah, GA location. This position is in the construction equipment OEM industry and will report directly to the Engineering Manager. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in Propulsion systems design, development, and integration for heavy machinery.

Full Time, Exempt

Onsite in Pooler, GA

JCB offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401 (k) retirement plan; paid time off and paid holidays.

• Lead the design and development of propulsion systems for heavy machinery and equipment.
• Create and review component specifications, and system layouts.
• Perform system-level analysis and simulations to ensure performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers.
• Oversee the integration and testing of propulsion systems in prototype and production environments.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal engineering guidelines.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical leadership within the organization.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in hydraulic system design and development processes.
• Other duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Agricultural Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in propulsion systems engineering, preferably in off-highway or heavy equipment industries.
• Proficiency in design tools and CAD software (e.g., Unigraphics NX).
• Understanding of thermodynamics, component selection, and system integration.
• Experience with system simulation tools such as AMESim, MATLAB/Simulink and/or Automation Studio.
• Familiarity with Teamcenter Engineering and engineering data management systems.
• Must pass any drug screens, background checks, and any pre-employment tests, which will be conducted in accordance with applicable law.

• Experience with prototype development and field testing of propulsion systems.
• Understanding of control systems and electro-hydraulic integration.
• Project management experience and ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Strong documentation and technical writing skills.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong leadership & communication skills.
• Ability to work in a high-stress environment.
• Detail-oriented and able to work independently.
• Collaborative approach to resolving issues impacting various groups across the enterprise.
• Ability to…