Powertrain Engineer

Overview

We're on the lookout for a Powertrain Engineer to work in a multi-disciplinary and multi-functional role, related to our high voltage E-Powertrain for Battery Electric and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Platforms. This role is based 50% at Nikola HQ in Phoenix and 50% at manufacturing facility in Coolidge.

This is a highly visible role within the company, both within Nikola and with various internal/external stakeholders and is critical to the long-term success of the company.

In this role you'll work on multiple aspects of the E-Axle and the Propulsion system of Class 8 ZEVs. You will support a variety of multi-disciplinary roles based on your skillset and company requirements.

Responsibilities

You will:

• Lead the product definition and tracking for Electric Powertrain Components for Class-8 Battery Electric and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Platforms

• Serve as the SME for all components of the Electric driveline system, including but not limited to the motors, controllers, axles , software , cables, etc.

• Lead several aspects of component and system level testing, including instrumentation, test fixtures and setup, procedures, and reporting for Powertrain. This involves DVP&R (Design Verification Plan and Report) development and testing of multiple programs, powertrain dyno testing, chassis dyno, durability testing, thermal performance, EMC, NVH, track and road testing

• Support detailed analysis of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products that may be integrated into an eAxle system

• Responsible for component- and system-level simulations, typically using Simulink

• Support development of 2D, 3D, and analytical models

• Assist with fabricating prototype test setups and hardware-in-the-loop testers to integrate new subsystems with simulated and actual vehicle components

• Assist with electromagnetics, mechanical, and/or thermal design aspect of various components in the E-Axle, including the e-motor, gearbox, differential, axle structure, thermal system components, etc.

• Synergize cross-discipline development and design engineers throughout the Powertrain organization to ensure the relevant subsystems are designed with appropriate requirements.

• Assist with various components and assemblies in CAD tools

• Develop engineering designs (including subsystems) for all components mentioned in (2)

• Implement engineering changes for pre/post production parts as needed

Qualifications

You have:

• B.S. in EE, EET, ME, MET, Automotive Engineering, with a specialty working on electric powertrain systems or components, or

• Ph.D/M.S. in EE, EET, ME, MET, Automotive Engineering, with a specialty working on electric powertrain systems or component

• Strong understanding of electrified powertrain concepts (Fuel cell, battery, motor, inverter, gearbox, and brake resistor systems), emerging trends, and overall system interaction

• Familiarity with tools such as Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, CANape

• Strong knowledge in MATLAB/Simulink

• The ability to work effectively in a cross functional group setting

• The ability to work independently

• The ability to deliver succinct written and verbal communication

• Hands-on technical experience debugging complex systems involving networked microprocessors and software-controlled electrical or electromechanical devices.

• Experience safely working with high voltage

• Experience in analyzing data, as well as developing analytical tools to command functions, to monitor responses, to parse data from log files, or to aid in data review

• Creative capacity for developing new ways to integrate complex system better and faster in alignment with the aggressive industry approach to revolutionary product development

• Must be highly motivated and able to manage multiple assignments concurrently with limited supervision, while driving day-to-day operations

Candidates must have current U.S. work authorization or be TN eligible from Mexico or Canada. This position is not eligible for CPT or OPT.

EEO Statement

Nikola Corporation is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, age, sex, ancestry, marital status, religion, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, medical condition, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information or any other classification protected by state or federal law.