Emissions Calibration Engineer

Ford Ford · Auto · Dearborn, MI +1 · Research and Advance Engineering

This role focuses on developing and validating emission calibration strategies for gasoline and hybrid vehicles to meet stringent regulatory targets. It involves a blend of virtual simulation, hands-on testing on dynamometers and vehicles, and coordination of various sub-systems. The engineer will use industry-standard calibration tools and data-driven approaches to balance emissions, fuel economy, performance, and drivability.

What you'd actually do

  1. Lead development testing across engine dynamometers, powertrain/hub dynamometers, and physical vehicles.
  2. Conduct sensitivity studies to optimize the balance between emissions compliance, fuel economy, performance, and drivability.
  3. Synchronize the calibration of various sub-systems—including the engine, aftertreatment (TWC/GPF), transmission, and electric generator/motors—to ensure seamless integration and achievement of emissions targets.
  4. Utilize Design of Experiments (DOE) methods to efficiently map complex multi-variable calibration spaces and define robust operating strategies.
  5. Lead the setup and commissioning of prototype systems in both dyno and vehicle environments.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 5+ years of experience in powertrain calibration, with a specific focus on gasoline emissions and/or electrified propulsion systems (HEV/PHEV).
  • Proficiency with industry-standard calibration tools (e.g., ATI Vision, ETAS INCA, or Vector CANape) and CAN communication protocols.
  • Deep understanding of global emissions regulatory requirements and test procedures, specifically SULEV20, SULEV15, and SULEV10 standards.
  • Demonstrated mechanical and electrical (wiring) skills for prototype vehicle/bench setup and hardware-in-the-loop troubleshooting.
  • Experience with data acquisition (DAQ) systems and various testing environments, including engine/chassis dynamometers.
  • Experience in data engineering and statistical validation, with a proven track record of analyzing large-scale datasets to identify statistically significant trends

Nice to have

  • Master’s or PhD in Engineering.
  • Expertise design and validation of exhaust aftertreatment.
  • In-depth understanding of HEV/PHEV powertrain architectures and their specific impact on emissions (e.g., cold-start management, thermal transients).
  • Experience with MATLAB/Simulink and advanced DOE optimization software (e.g., AVL ASCMO, Model-Based Calibration Toolbox).
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional technical reviews and mentor junior calibration engineers.

What the JD emphasized

  • 5+ years of experience in powertrain calibration, with a specific focus on gasoline emissions and/or electrified propulsion systems (HEV/PHEV).
  • Deep understanding of global emissions regulatory requirements and test procedures, specifically SULEV20, SULEV15, and SULEV10 standards.
  • Demonstrated mechanical and electrical (wiring) skills for prototype vehicle/bench setup and hardware-in-the-loop troubleshooting.
  • Experience in data engineering and statistical validation, with a proven track record of analyzing large-scale datasets to identify statistically significant trends