Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Emissions Engineer

🎯 Role Definition

As an Emissions Engineer, you will be the cornerstone of our environmental stewardship and product compliance strategy. You will be instrumental in the entire product lifecycle, from initial design and development through to certification and in-use compliance. Your expertise will ensure our products not only meet but exceed stringent global emissions standards (such as EPA, CARB, and Euro 6/VI), positioning our brand as a leader in clean and efficient technology. This is a highly collaborative role where you'll work with cross-functional teams including powertrain design, calibration, and regulatory affairs to solve complex engineering challenges related to exhaust aftertreatment systems, engine performance, and diagnostic strategies.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Mechanical Engineer
Test Engineer
Powertrain Calibration Engineer

Advancement To:

Senior Emissions Engineer or Technical Specialist
Engineering Manager (Emissions/Compliance)
Regulatory Affairs Manager

Lateral Moves:

Powertrain Performance Engineer
Engine Calibration Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Plan, coordinate, and execute complex emissions and fuel economy testing on engine or chassis dynamometers in strict accordance with federal (EPA) and state (CARB) regulatory procedures.
Analyze, interpret, and process high-volume test data from various sources to evaluate engine performance, emissions output, and the efficiency of exhaust aftertreatment systems.
Lead the preparation, review, and submission of comprehensive emissions certification and compliance documentation required by global regulatory agencies.
Develop, document, and continuously refine test procedures and methodologies to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability of emissions measurement for both development and certification purposes.
Collaborate closely with powertrain calibration teams to optimize engine control strategies for emissions reduction while balancing performance, driveability, and fuel economy targets.
Act as a subject matter expert on exhaust aftertreatment systems, including Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), Diesel Oxidation Catalysts (DOC), and Lean NOx Traps (LNT).
Investigate and troubleshoot complex emissions-related issues identified during development, production, or in-use vehicle testing, and propose robust, data-driven engineering solutions.
Proactively monitor, interpret, and communicate changes in global emissions regulations and industry trends to provide strategic guidance to engineering and product planning teams on future requirements.
Manage the complete lifecycle of emissions certification projects, including timeline planning, resource allocation, risk assessment, and clear communication with internal and external stakeholders.
Conduct thorough on-board diagnostics (OBD) verification and validation testing to ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements for emissions control system monitoring.
Design and implement comprehensive test plans for component-level and system-level evaluation of new and emerging emissions control hardware and software technologies.
Serve as a primary technical interface with regulatory agency staff (e.g., EPA, CARB) to clarify technical requirements, present test findings, and support negotiations for certification pathways.
Develop sophisticated data analysis tools and scripts using platforms like MATLAB or Python to automate data processing, visualization, and the generation of insightful summary reports.
Support in-use compliance programs, including the coordination and execution of Portable Emissions Measurement Systems (PEMS) testing and subsequent data analysis to ensure long-term field performance.
Perform detailed root cause analysis on emissions test failures or compliance shortfalls, utilizing structured problem-solving methodologies like 8D or Fishbone diagrams.
Oversee the calibration, maintenance, and quality control of sensitive emissions measurement equipment, including gas analyzers and particulate matter counters, to guarantee data integrity.
Provide technical leadership, training, and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians within the emissions testing and compliance team, fostering a culture of excellence.
Lead technical risk assessments for the emissions-related aspects of new product programs, identifying potential compliance challenges early in the design and development phase.
Author and present detailed technical reports, summaries, and executive-level presentations for a wide range of audiences, from engineering peers to senior management.
Coordinate directly with suppliers of aftertreatment components and systems to define technical specifications, review validation data, and drive the resolution of any technical issues.
Manage and conduct engine and vehicle durability testing protocols to accurately assess the long-term performance and aging characteristics of critical emissions control systems.
Participate in relevant industry consortiums and technical committees to stay at the forefront of emissions measurement technology, test procedures, and regulatory development.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis for cross-functional teams.
Contribute to the organization's data governance and quality improvement initiatives.
Assist in laboratory safety audits and contribute to the continuous improvement of lab operational procedures.
Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the product development teams.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Deep understanding of internal combustion engine theory, thermodynamics, and combustion principles.
Expertise in interpreting and applying global emissions regulations (e.g., EPA 40 CFR Parts 1065/1066, CARB, Euro 6/VI).
Hands-on experience with emissions testing equipment, including gas analyzers, particulate matter counters, and Portable Emissions Measurement Systems (PEMS).
Proficiency with engine or chassis dynamometer operation and associated test cell software (e.g., Horiba STARS, AVL PUMA, dSPACE).
Strong data acquisition and analysis skills using tools such as MATLAB, Python, Concerto, or ETAS INCA.
In-depth knowledge of exhaust aftertreatment systems (SCR, DPF, DOC, LNT) and their chemical and physical processes.
Experience with engine calibration tools and an understanding of their impact on emissions (e.g., ATI Vision, Vector CANape).
Familiarity with On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) regulations, fault detection, and validation methodologies.
Proven ability to read and interpret complex technical documentation, regulatory text, and engineering drawings.
Experience with project management principles and coordinating cross-functional engineering activities to meet deadlines.
Knowledge of statistical analysis, Design of Experiments (DoE), and data-driven problem-solving.

Soft Skills

Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills with meticulous attention to detail.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a talent for conveying complex technical information to diverse audiences.
A high degree of self-motivation and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
A collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal skills for working effectively within a dynamic team environment.
Adaptability and resilience to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving regulatory and technological landscape.
Effective time management and organizational skills to successfully manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
A results-oriented approach with a commitment to quality and engineering excellence.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in a relevant engineering discipline.

Preferred Education:

Master of Science (M.S.) or higher in a relevant engineering field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Mechanical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Automotive Engineering
Environmental Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-7 years of direct experience in emissions testing, engine calibration, or automotive regulatory compliance.

Preferred:

5+ years of experience in a senior or lead role within an automotive, heavy-duty, marine, or power systems environment, with a proven track record of successfully leading product certification programs from planning to approval.