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Automotive Calibration Engineer Jobs in California

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Calibration Lab Manager

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

... automotive, and other precision-driven industries. Operating from a new 22,000 sq. ft ... engineers, customers, auditors, and senior management. Responsibilities: Calibration & Technical ...

LiDAR Test & Calibration Engineer Mountain View, CA About us: Aeva's mission is to bring the next ... Familiarity with automotive LiDAR performance requirements. * Bilingual with fluency in Spanish or ...

Applied Intuition services the automotive, defense, trucking, construction, mining and agriculture ... About the role We are looking for a software engineer with expertise in calibration systems for ...

New

Manager - Sensor Calibration

Foster City, CA · On-site

$254K - $350K/yr

Operating at the intersection of robotics and advanced hardware engineering, you will collaborate ... Strong understanding of automobile sensor calibration in factory manufacturing, dealership, and ...

Manager - Sensor Calibration

Foster City, CA · On-site

$242K - $333K/yr

Operating at the intersection of robotics and advanced hardware engineering, you will collaborate ... Strong understanding of automobile sensor calibration in factory manufacturing, dealership, and ...

Manager - Sensor Calibration

Foster City, CA · On-site

$242K - $333K/yr

Operating at the intersection of robotics and advanced hardware engineering, you will collaborate ... Strong understanding of automobile sensor calibration in factory manufacturing, dealership, and ...

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... automotive, and other precision-driven industries. Operating in a new 22,000 sq. ft ... Inspect equipment and collaborate with engineers * Provide technical guidance during audits

Technical collaboration : provide feedback to engineering and product development teams to ... Experience : at least two years of automotive repair experience, with hands-on knowledge in ADAS ...

... automotive, aerospace, defense, semiconductor, and emerging technologies. Through trusted solutions ... Partner closely with service engineers, field teams, and support staff to ensure timely resolution

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Automotive Calibration Engineer information

See California salary details

$24

$41

$50

How much do automotive calibration engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive calibration engineer in California is $41.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.86 and $44.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automotive calibration engineer?

An Automotive Calibration Engineer is a professional responsible for tuning and optimizing the electronic control systems in vehicles, such as engines, transmissions, and emissions systems. They ensure that these systems operate efficiently, meet regulatory standards, and deliver optimal performance under various conditions. This involves using specialized software and diagnostic tools to adjust parameters and conduct tests both in the lab and on the road. Calibration engineers play a crucial role in developing new vehicles, improving fuel efficiency, reducing emissions, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Calibration Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, in-depth knowledge of engine management systems, and experience with vehicle diagnostics. Proficiency in calibration software tools such as INCA, MATLAB/Simulink, and familiarity with OBD and CAN communication protocols is essential. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure vehicle performance, regulatory compliance, and collaboration with cross-functional teams during development and testing.

What are some common challenges faced by automotive calibration engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Automotive Calibration Engineers often face challenges such as balancing performance, emissions, and fuel economy targets while adhering to regulatory standards. Additionally, they must adapt calibrations to different vehicle platforms and manage tight project timelines. Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as software developers, test engineers, and regulatory compliance specialists—is crucial for successful calibration. Staying updated with the latest diagnostic tools and simulation software helps address these challenges and ensures robust calibration solutions.

What is the difference between Automotive Calibration Engineer vs Automotive Test Engineer?

AspectAutomotive Calibration EngineerAutomotive Test Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping and fine-tuning vehicle control systems and sensorsTesting vehicle performance, safety, and compliance through experiments
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of ECU programming, calibration tools, automotive standardsExperience with testing procedures, data analysis, and vehicle diagnostics
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, vehicle testing facilities, calibration labsTest tracks, laboratories, vehicle testing sites
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, suppliers, R&D centersAutomotive manufacturers, testing agencies, research institutions

While both roles are essential in automotive development, Automotive Calibration Engineers focus on optimizing vehicle control systems for performance and efficiency, whereas Automotive Test Engineers conduct tests to validate vehicle safety and compliance. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles in the automotive industry.

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs in California?

For Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Automotive Calibration Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,958 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

PERFORMANCE POWERTRAIN CALIBRATION ENGINEER

034Motorsport

Fremont, CA

$50K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

PERFORMANCE POWERTRAIN CALIBRATION ENGINEER

034Motorsport is a widely known engineering and manufacturing firm of high performance Audi and Volkswagen automotive solutions. We are a company made up of automotive enthusiasts dedicated to delighting our customers with excessive levels of speed through innovative performance products and exceptional application expertise. We are currently seeking an experienced Performance Powertrain Calibration Engineer to complement our staff and bring the same level of excitement, expertise and performance to our Engineering team.

Responsibilities

  • Working with our software calibration and marketing teams to develop world class performance engine and transmission software.
  • Hands-on calibration of engine and transmission control units.
  • Methodically test and calibrate powertrain control systems (engine and transmission control units primarily).
  • Testing/data collection both on a dynamometer and in real-world situations.
  • Taking calibration projects from a concept to deliverable software and test results.
  • Ownership of engine calibration for a platform, managing the product from advanced engineering through development and into maintenance activities.
  • Some travel required for testing, events, and certification work.
  • Working with a passionate team of enthusiasts. In a fun, but driven atmosphere.

Requirements

  • 2+ years of experience in vehicle calibration.
  • Experience with aftermarket powertrain calibration tools, methods, and requirements.
  • Ability to work directly with calibration software to modify, program, and log required variables.
  • Self driven project completion.
  • Able to read and interpret complex technical documentation and data.
  • Customer focused project development.
  • A thirst for in-depth technical collaboration with team members.
  • Ability to take and provide feedback on projects and methods.
  • Advanced problem-solving skills and an aptitude for striking a balance between the application of academic theory and engineering judgment for a given project.
  • Fundamental understanding of compression ignition combustion.
  • Experience with compression ignition engine technologies.
  • Experience with Mechatronic systems and power delivery in vehicle applications (automated transmissions and drivetrain controls).
  • Strong communication skills both written and verbal.
  • Legally able to drive.

Preferred Experience

  • Familiarity with engine testing in an engine and/or chassis dynamometer.
  • Familiarity with OEM style calibration tools and technologies
  • In-depth knowledge of the Volkswagen and Audi product line and aftermarket.
  • In-depth knowledge of Bosch (MED/MDG) and Siemens (Simos) engine control systems.
  • In-depth knowledge of automated transmission control systems (Temic, ZF, Bosch).
  • Familiarity with compliance certifications and testing procedures (CARB, EPA, etc).
  • Racing/track experience on both short straight tracks and longer less-straight tracks.
  • Software development experience in any of the following:
    • C#
    • C
    • C++
  • Embedded software reverse engineering (TriCore, MPC/PowerPC).

If you are interested in this exciting and influential position, please click the Apply For This Position button below, upload a detailed resume and cover letter, and fill out the application. Soon after you complete these steps, you will receive an email thanking you for applying that will also have a link to the next step in the candidate review process.