Emissions Calibration Engineer

Ford • Dearborn, MI

10d • $99,600 - $166,600 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Advanced Emissions Calibration Engineer develops and demonstrates system-level capabilities to meet future emissions targets (SULEV20, SULEV15, and SULEV10) for gasoline-powered internal combustion engines, hybrid vehicles, and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The role bridges virtual simulation and physical validation, developing calibration strategies that balance regulatory compliance with fuel economy and drivability. It combines analytical strategy with hands-on commissioning and debugging of prototype propulsion systems.

The position is hybrid. Candidates within commuting distance of a Ford hub location may be required to work onsite four or more days per week. The salary range is $99,600–$166,600, with final salary grade and pay determined by skills, experience, job scope, responsibility, and market value. Visa sponsorship is available. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States; employment eligibility will be verified at hire.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 5 years of experience in powertrain calibration, focused on gasoline emissions and/or electrified propulsion systems (HEV/PHEV).
• Proficiency with industry-standard calibration tools such as 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.
• Mechanical and electrical wiring skills for prototype vehicle or bench setup and hardware-in-the-loop troubleshooting.
• Experience with data acquisition (DAQ) systems and testing environments including engine and chassis dynamometers.
• Experience in data engineering and statistical validation, with a track record of analyzing large-scale datasets to identify statistically significant trends.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

• Lead development testing on engine dynamometers, powertrain/hub dynamometers, and physical vehicles.
• Use virtual vehicle analytical simulations to front-load calibration development and demonstrate system capability.
• Conduct sensitivity studies to balance emissions compliance, fuel economy, performance, and drivability, and establish preferred control-variable values using data-driven methods.
• Coordinate calibration of engine, aftertreatment (TWC/GPF), transmission, and electric generator/motors to integrate systems and achieve emissions targets.
• Apply Design of Experiments (DOE) methods to map complex calibration spaces and define robust operating strategies.
• Lead setup and commissioning of prototype systems in dynamometer and vehicle environments.
• Perform system-level debugging and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software issues.
• Document and present calibration progress, trade-off results, and regulatory compliance status to program leadership and cross-functional teams.

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, and subsidized backup childcare.
• Family-building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement and fertility treatments.
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members, and management leases.
• Tuition assistance.
• Established and active employee resource groups.
• Paid time off for individual and team community service.
• Paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
• Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior