Our client, based in Coventry, is searching for a Principal Powertrain Engineer permanent basis to join a small, fast-moving engineering team responsible for the development and integration of gasoline powertrains into high-performance and specialist vehicle platforms.

Role overview:

The role is responsible for delivery of complete powertrain and installation systems to the various vehicle platforms. Working closely with external engine and component suppliers, vehicle engineering, manufacturing, purchasing and programme teams, the successful candidate will take powertrain systems from initial specification through component development, vehicle integration, validation and sign-off. The position requires a candidate with the experience to work flexibly across multiple powertrain systems in an agile, hands-on development environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Specification, design, development and integration of installed powertrain systems including cooling, air intake, exhaust, fuel, driveline and transmission systems.

• Take technical ownership of Total Powertrain Specification, Development and Integration across all vehicle programmes.
• Manage the integration and sign-off of powertrain systems to meet vehicle programme targets (timing, durability, performance and quality).
• Develop and deliver timing and resource plans that support vehicle development targets
• Define system requirements, interfaces, packaging constraints and integration targets in support of vehicle development.
• Lead interface with external engine and component suppliers to develop systems and components to agreed technical specifications.
• Support the purchasing team by providing technical content for RFQs and contributing to the technical evaluation of supplier offerings.
• Support FMEA activities to identify technical risks and ensure appropriate mitigation actions are implemented.
• Develop Design Verification Plans (DVPs) and associated engineering validation documentation.
• Support component, subsystem and vehicle testing and validation activities throughout the development programme.
• Apply structured problem-solving methods to diagnose and resolve powertrain integration and vehicle development concerns.
• Support prototype vehicle builds and provide hands-on engineering support to resolve installation and integration issues.
• Work closely with Manufacturing to agree feasible manufacturing solutions and ensure Design for Manufacture principles are incorporated.
• Identify, communicate and manage technical risks, open issues and engineering actions across the powertrain workstream.
• Work flexibly across a range of powertrain components and systems according as required.

Essential Skills, Experience and Knowledge Required:

• Strong experience in gasoline powertrain integration and vehicle development.
• Good understanding of complete powertrain installation and the interfaces between powertrain systems and the vehicle.
• Understanding and practical knowledge of Design Verification Plans (DVPs) and FMEAs.
• Strong understanding of automotive test and validation procedures and processes.
• Knowledge of and experience using structured problem-solving methods.
• Experience managing suppliers and working through technical issues to achieve the required engineering solution.
• Confidence to challenge technical errors or concerns with suppliers and internal engineering teams where necessary.
• Awareness of Design for Manufacture principles and their application to component and system development.
• Understanding of engineering change processes and the progression of components through vehicle development.
• Strong communication, time management and organisational skills.
• Ability to work flexibly and adapt the level of involvement required across different powertrain systems.
• Confidence to advocate engineering solutions while understanding the compromises required across vehicle attributes, timing and manufacture.
• Engineering degree or equivalent qualification within a relevant subject.
• Willingness and ability to travel globally to support development, supplier activities, customer events and concern resolution.

Desirable Skills, Experience and Knowledge Requested:

• Experience using CATIA V5 within an automotive engineering environment.
• Experience supporting prototype vehicle builds and hands-on vehicle development activities.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes relevant to installed powertrain components and systems.