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Airbag Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Airbag Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$100.9K

$136.3K

How much do airbag engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for airbag engineer in Virginia is $100,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,300.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Airbag Engineer vs Crash Test Engineer?

AspectAirbag EngineerCrash Test Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; certifications in safety standardsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Civil Engineering; certifications in testing procedures
Work EnvironmentAutomotive manufacturing plants, R&D labsTesting facilities, crash test sites, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, safety equipment companiesAutomotive industry, safety testing agencies

Both roles focus on vehicle safety but differ in their focus areas. Airbag Engineers design and develop airbag systems, ensuring proper deployment and safety standards. Crash Test Engineers conduct physical crash tests to evaluate vehicle safety performance. While they share similar credentials and work environments, their core responsibilities differ—one develops safety components, the other tests vehicle crashworthiness.

What are some common challenges faced by airbag engineers when integrating new safety technologies into existing vehicle platforms?

Airbag Engineers often encounter challenges when incorporating new safety technologies into established vehicle designs, such as ensuring compatibility with existing sensors and electronic control units. They must also account for varying cabin geometries and occupant positions, which can affect deployment timing and effectiveness. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, is vital to address these integration challenges while meeting strict regulatory and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airbag engineer?

To thrive as an Airbag Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, along with experience in safety systems design and validation. Familiarity with CAD software, crash simulation tools, and industry safety standards such as FMVSS or ISO 26262 is crucial. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in this role. These skills ensure the development of reliable airbag systems that meet stringent safety regulations and protect vehicle occupants during collisions.

What is an airbag engineer?

Airbag Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and test airbag systems in vehicles to enhance passenger safety during collisions. They work closely with automotive design teams to ensure airbags deploy effectively and comply with safety regulations. Their responsibilities include conducting simulations, analyzing crash data, and improving airbag performance through research and development. Airbag Engineers play a crucial role in advancing vehicle safety technology and reducing injury risks in accidents.
What are popular job titles related to Airbag Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Airbag Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Airbag Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,879 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

ATE Field Mechanical Technician

Automotive Technology Experts

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$23.80 - $42.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


Automotive Technology Experts rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 365 rated vehicle maintenance


Job description

At Automotive Technology Experts (ATE), we understand the importance of providing fast and accurate vehicle diagnostic scanning and calibration services.  We service hundreds of customers that rely on us to ensure that the repairs they have completed are safe and that the vehicle will operate as the manufacturer had intended.   

ATE was founded in 2019 to provide technological and electrical repair expertise in the collision industry that struggles to stay current with the rapidly changing technology in vehicles.  We employ technicians across the country. Our growth will continue as we add team members that strive to be the best, commit to taking care of our customers, and continue to train so that they can accomplish team goals and obtain career advancement opportunities.

JOB PURPOSE: The ATE Field Mechanic Technician is a mobile, field-based role responsible for delivering high quality mechanical, diagnostic, programming, calibration, electrical, and safety related services to Crash Champions locations, third party partners, and retail customers. This role is intentionally designed to combine full mechanical repair responsibility with advanced diagnostics and ADAS calibration, differentiating it from calibration-only or diagnostic-only market roles.


  • Deliver fast and accurate ATE service support to internal and external customers.
  • Travel daily to assigned service locations in a company provided vehicle.
  • Perform diagnostics, scanning, programming, calibrations, electrical diagnostics, wire and connector repair, and light to moderate mechanical services.
  • Perform mechanical repairs typically excluded from mobile ADAS-only roles, including suspension, brakes, HVAC/A-C, dash removal, and airbag installation.
  • Perform suspension, brake, HVAC and A C service, dash removal, air bag installation, and other mechanical repairs in accordance with OEM procedures.
  • Conduct engine, drivetrain, cooling system, and post collision mechanical inspections per OEM standards.
  • Diagnose, replace, and initialize SRS components in alignment with manufacturer guidelines.
  • Perform ADAS diagnostics and calibrations when trained, equipped, and authorized.
  • Own both mechanical root cause resolution and electronic validation of vehicle systems.
  • Perform module programming, coding, initialization, and safety related resets using factory or approved non factory software.
  • Perform EV and Hybrid high voltage energize and de energize procedures when properly trained and certified.
  • Ensure all services including calibrations, programming, and mechanical repairs are clearly documented, required per OEM guidelines, and approved prior to execution in alignment with company policies.
  • Conduct test drives to verify system functionality and confirm successful repair outcomes.
    Provide excellent customer service by managing difficult situations with transparency and urgency, communicating promptly and professionally, and escalating concerns when appropriate.
  • Accurately complete repair documentation, scan reports, and final billing prior to leaving the service location in accordance with MCP guidelines.
  • Meet established productivity, quality, and compliance standards.
  • Properly care for, maintain, and secure ATE issued tools, equipment, PPE, and vehicles.
  • Stay current on ATE and OEM protocols through required training, Champions Connect updates, and continuing education.
  • Participate in team meetings and training sessions as assigned.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

  • 4+ years of automotive mechanical experience required. This role includes an expanded mechanical and safety-critical scope beyond calibration-only positions. Candidates must complete I-CAR PL3 certification within 90 days of hire and have ASE certification scheduled within 90 days of hire.
  • Strong working knowledge of light and moderate mechanical repair, ADAS systems, electrical systems, diagnostics, programming, and calibrations.
  • Experience performing suspension, brake, HVAC, dash removal, air bag installation, and post collision mechanical inspections.
  • Ability to diagnose and repair SRS systems and perform safety related procedures per OEM standards.
  • Proficient with electrical diagnostic equipment such as multimeters, power probes, and resistors.
  • Ability to perform and interpret vehicle health scans using both factory and approved non factory tools.
  • Skilled in reading and interpreting OEM and aftermarket service information, repair procedures, and wiring schematics.
  • Ability to program vehicle modules using factory or approved software platforms.
  • EV and Hybrid high voltage certification preferred or ability to obtain certification.
  • Clear and professional communication skills, both verbal and written, to explain technical findings and service recommendations.
  • Technologically proficient with platforms such as Outlook, Teams, Word, and service documentation systems.
  • Strong work ethic with a high sense of urgency, self motivation, accountability, and professional representation of the ATE brand.
  • Continuous learner mindset with a commitment to ongoing technical development.
  • Comfortable working independently in fast paced automotive shop environments.
  • Saturday availability required on a rotating basis (typically every other Saturday, 9 AM - 12 PM or as scheduled)
  • Flexible Saturday schedule availability to ensure continuous market coverage
  • Ability to work flexible schedule including Saturdays to support business operations.
  • Willingness and ability to travel daily to local or regional service locations using a company provided vehicle.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds independently.
  • Ability to lift, maneuver, or position components up to 100 pounds with assistance or mechanical support.
  • Ability to push, pull, and maneuver heavy vehicle components using proper lifting techniques and shop equipment.
  • Ability to stand, bend, kneel, crouch, and work in automotive shop environments for extended periods.
  • Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record.

The Company offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements and annual updates:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Group Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • 401k Retirement Plan with match
  • Referral Bonus (“Cash From Crash”)
  • 5 Paid Holidays

We are committed to providing competitive compensation for this role. The actual offer will be based on various factors, including but not limited to: job related knowledge, skills, experience, relevant certifications and qualifications.

The compensation and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, with or without notice, subject to applicable law. 


USD $23.80/Hr.
USD $42.50/Hr.

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