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
