Powertrain Engineering Manager

Kelly® Engineering is seeking a Powertrain Engineering Manager for a direct-hire opportunity with a global, multi-division manufacturer serving the automotive and industrial mobility markets in the Greater Detroit area. If you are passionate about advanced driveline systems and ready to lead high-impact engineering initiatives, trust the experts at hiring experts.

$150,000 - $175,000 annually

Our client is a diversified manufacturing organization specializing in precision-engineered powertrain, driveline, and motion control systems. Supporting high-volume automotive and industrial programs worldwide, the company integrates advanced gear technology, metallurgy, and manufacturing expertise to deliver durable, high-performance transmission solutions.

This role serves as the technical leader for gear and bearing engineering, bridging theoretical design principles with scalable production. The Technical Manager will oversee gear system development—particularly hypoid and spiral bevel applications—while leading a team of engineers responsible for design integrity, manufacturability, durability, and quality performance.

• Serve as the technical authority for gear systems including hypoid, spiral bevel, helical, worm, and planetary configurations.
• Lead gear geometry development, including tooth contact analysis (TCA), micro-geometry optimization, and ease-off modifications.
• Oversee bearing selection and system integration, including L10 life calculations, preload strategy, and mesh deflection analysis.
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM), including grinding, lapping, and heat treatment considerations.
• Interpret inspection data (GMM/CMM) and lead root‑cause investigations related to noise, vibration, durability, or field performance.
• Manage multiple automotive and industrial programs, ensuring technical deliverables, budgets, and timelines are met.
• Mentor and develop engineering staff, fostering technical rigor and continuous improvement.
• Lead structured problem‑solving efforts using methodologies such as 8D and 5‑Why.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in gear design and manufacturing within automotive or industrial transmission environments.
• 3+ years of formal engineering leadership or management experience.
• Advanced expertise in hypoid and spiral bevel gear systems.
• Proficiency with industry tools such as KISSsoft, MASTA, Romax, Transmission3D, or Gleason/Klingelnberg software platforms.
• Strong knowledge of gear metallurgy, including carburizing, quenching, and shot peening processes.
• Experience working with Gleason and/or Klingelnberg manufacturing systems.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable direction for cross‑functional teams.

• Competitive base salary with performance‑based incentives
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match
  
  Paid time off and holidays
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
• Relocation assistance (if applicable)

Once you apply, you’ll proceed to next steps if your skills and experience look like a good fit. But don’t worry – even if this position doesn’t work out, you’re still in the Kelly Engineering network. That means our team of expert engineering recruiters will have access to your profile, making your opportunities limitless.