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Excel Engineering

Excel Engineering

Powertrain testing and emissions regulation compliance

Automation Engineer

Full-Time
$86.7k - $160k/yr
Mid
Bachelor's, Master's
Lexington, KY, USA
In Person

Travel up to 20% is required.

About the job

Requirements
  • At least 3 years of experience in automation.
  • Experience in industries such as Consumer Goods, Renewable Energy, Gas Processing, Chemical, Power, Waste Management, or Pharmaceutical.
  • A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program or equivalent experience.
  • A GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • Strong interest or experience in computer programming.
  • Exposure to electrical design and engineering calculations.
  • Familiarity with programmable logic controller logic, human-machine interface systems, control panel layouts, communication networks, and instrumentation.
  • Engineer-in-Training certification or willingness to obtain it.
  • Willingness to travel up to 20%.
Responsibilities
  • Develop programmable logic controller programs and human-machine interface applications based on user requirements or functional specifications.
  • Perform loop checks and system checkouts to ensure designs operate safely and effectively.
  • Configure communication interfaces between control systems.
  • Review and maintain electrical schematics, process and instrumentation diagrams, and instrumentation documentation.
  • Design electrical packages, including input/output layouts, control panel designs, and bills of material.
  • Tune and optimize automatic control systems utilizing programmable logic controller hardware.
  • Specify and configure variable frequency drives and servo drive systems.
  • Create clear and accurate project documentation to meet client expectations.
  • Validate control systems according to project scope and requirements.
  • Work directly with end users, vendors, and contractors to deliver projects on time and within budget.
Desired Qualifications
  • Experience in industries such as Consumer Goods, Renewable Energy, Gas Processing, Chemical, Power, Waste Management, or Pharmaceutical.

About the company

Excel Engineering provides testing services for all powertrain types, including ICE, EV, HEV, hydrogen, and battery systems. Its facilities feature over 40 engine testing cells across three locations, testing up to 5500 HP, and chassis dynos, supporting emissions testing, regulatory compliance, and development work. It also offers battery performance, environmental, and abuse testing, as well as service accumulation and DV/PV testing for OEMs during ramp-ups. The company differentiates itself with a broad, specialized suite of powertrain test capabilities—covering emissions, HV battery systems, e-motors, power transmission, and certification testing for ATV, SXS, motorcycles, and other vehicles under 40 CFR standards—combined with custom test development in collaboration with customers. Its goal is to deliver high-quality, cost-effective testing solutions that accelerate product development and ensure regulatory compliance across traditional and emerging powertrain technologies.

Company Size

51-200

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Des Moines, Iowa

Founded

2002

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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Fusion's January 2026 investment provides capital for scaling and facility expansion.
  • Excel's blue-chip OEM customer base supports repeat testing programs across vehicle lifecycles.
  • The Detroit-area Ricardo partnership and battery-testing expansion widen reach into hybrid and EV markets.

What critics are saying

  • Fusion's acquisition signals Excel needed outside capital to fund growth and modernization.
  • A new Q2 2026 chassis dynamometer launch demands execution; delays would hit OEM credibility.
  • Powertrain and emissions testing faces EV transition pressure, threatening core engine-testing demand by 2027.

What makes Excel Engineering unique

  • Excel Engineering's 2002-founded testing platform spans engines, batteries, powertrains, and certification.
  • Doug Sobotka kept control after Fusion's January 6, 2026 acquisition, preserving continuity.
  • Its Mount Ayr Battery Tech Center offers 30+ cells and 2,000-volt testing.

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Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

401(k) Company Match

Paid Vacation

Flexible Work Hours

Wellness Program

Professional Development Budget

Employee Referral Bonus

Growth & Insights and Company News

Headcount

6 month growth

-3%

1 year growth

-5%

2 year growth

-5%
Business Wire
Jan 7th, 2026
Excel Engineering, Inc. Announces New Partnership and Strategic Investment from Fusion Capital Partners

Excel Engineering, Inc. (“Excel” or “the Company”), a North American provider of testing services for engine, powertrain, battery systems and fuel types acro...