Powertrain Systems Engineer

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Professional MI, Shelby Township, MI, US

30+ days ago Requisition

SAPA Transmission
, a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) contractor, is seeking a Powertrain Systems 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.

Join a team developing advanced drivetrain technology for military applications and play a direct role in improving the mobility, performance, and reliability of next-generation combat vehicles.

Support next-generation U.S. military vehicle programs

Work on advanced transmission and powertrain technologies

Collaborate directly with OEM and defense customers

Influence vehicle architectures, integration strategies, and analytical development

Competitive benefits, retirement contributions, and growth opportunities

• Develop concept-level powertrain architectures utilizing various engine technologies, including diesel, gasoline, hybrid, turbine, and alternative fuels.
• Design prototype power packs including heat exchanger sizing and selection, fan and fan drive sizing and selection, final drive ratio and PTO power definition.
• 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.
• 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.
• Provide technical guidance to vehicle OEMs on ACT packaging, mounting, lubrication, cooling loops, and control system interfaces.
• 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.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 5+ 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, drive lines, 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.

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Knowledge of hybrid-electric powertrain integration and control strategy development.
• Familiarity with thermal modeling, NVH, and durability prediction techniques.

• 6% Retirement Plan Contribution by SAPA Transmission (regardless of employee contribution to the 401(k) plan)
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Sick Time
• Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance with minimal employee contribution
• Short-Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability

This position requires regular on-site attendance at our facility and is not a remote or hybrid role. Candidates must be able to work on-site during scheduled hours.