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Automotive Calibration Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$158K - $269K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer in Calibration, you will create the next ...

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer in Calibration, you will create the next ...

Research Engineer, Calibration

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$158K - $269K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer in Calibration, you will create the next ...

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer in Calibration, you will create the next ...

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Automotive Calibration Engineer information

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How much do automotive calibration engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive calibration engineer in the United States is $41.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.34 and $44.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Calibration Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

More about Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs
What states have the most Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Calibration Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Calibration Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,099 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Senior Emissions and OBD Calibration Engineer

Hyundai Motor Company

Superior Township, MI • Hybrid

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Senior Emissions and OBD Calibration Engineer

About Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI)

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) serves as Hyundai Motor Group's North American R&D headquarters, supporting Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis products in one of the world's most competitive automotive markets. Our teams drive innovation across product planning, design, engineering, quality, testing, and advanced technology development.

With our main R&D campus in Michigan and additional engineering, development, and proving ground facilities in California, HATCI provides a dynamic environment where ideas accelerate into real-world vehicle advancements.

About the Team

The Emissions and OBD Validation (EMOV) team is part of the Electrified Propulsion division of HATCI. We advance propulsion efficiency and performance across Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis internal combustion and hybrid powertrains, directly shaping the refinement, competitiveness, and technological leadership of the vehicles our customers drive every day. EMOV leads local market testing and validation of engine and electrified propulsion management systems controlling vehicle emissions and diagnostics.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Senior Emissions and OBD Calibration Engineer who will serve as a technical expert and project leader for emissions and OBD calibration development across ICE and hybrid propulsion systems. In this role, you will drive cross-functional alignment, mentor junior engineers, and influence technology roadmaps that ensure our vehicles meet demanding regulatory standards while delivering industry-leading performance. This role requires candidates who are motivated by deep technical challenges, capable of leading complex and time-bound projects, and possess the long-term vision to shape the next-generation propulsion systems.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead EMS mapping, calibration, and validation for ICE and hybrid propulsion systems
  • Own OBD-II and emissions calibration strategies, ensuring compliance in diverse environments and extreme ambient conditions
  • Drive new technology development to improve emissions performance and reduce system cost/complexity
  • Develop technical roadmaps, best practices, and validation methods for propulsion system compliance
  • Serve as the primary technical lead for complex pre-production and post-production issue resolution
  • Manage project execution, including test planning, coordination, progress reporting, and cross-functional alignment
  • Present technical insights, risks, and recommendations to leadership and global R&D partners
  • Support manufacturing, quality, field investigations, and vehicle certification activities
  • Lead benchmarking of competitor ICE/hybrid vehicles and identify actionable insights
  • Mentor and support junior engineers within the team
  • Travel domestically and internationally (up to 15%)

Core Competencies

  • Demonstrated excellence in vehicle calibration, testing, and data-driven decision-making
  • Expert-level understanding of emissions/OBD regulatory frameworks (CARB, EPA)
  • Strong understanding of calibration tuning workflows, toolchains, and validation methodologies
  • Ability to lead complex debugging activities across hardware, software, and vehicle systems
  • Strong working knowledge of vehicle communication networks (CAN, LIN, Ethernet)
  • Expertise in data acquisition and instrumentation, including tools such as ETAS/INCA
  • Deep knowledge of engine control systems, combustion, and aftertreatment fundamentals
  • Strong communication, cross-functional leadership, and ability to influence technical direction
  • Consistent demonstration of professional integrity, confidentiality, and sound engineering judgment
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

Basic Qualifications

  • B.S. in ME, EE, or related engineering discipline
  • 6+ years' experience in propulsion emissions or OBD calibration
  • Strong foundation in propulsion system principles, including hybrid architectures
  • Proven experience with emissions testing, calibration methodologies, and regulatory compliance
  • Hands-on experience with communication networks (CAN, LIN, Ethernet) and calibration tools
  • Strong communication and documentation skills
  • Valid driver's license with satisfactory driving record

Preferred Qualifications

  • M.S. in ME, EE, or related field
  • 8+ years of experience in emissions development, calibration, and validation
  • Experience with PM emissions mitigation, including GPF calibration/development
  • OBD-II calibration experience for mass-production programs
  • Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DoE) and advanced calibration optimization techniques
  • MATLAB/Simulink or Python proficiency for data analysis
WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU
  • Zero-dollar Employee Premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for You and Your Family
  • 100% Employer-paid Disability and Life Insurance
  • Generous Paid Time Off Including Vacation, Sick, and Abundant Holidays
  • Competitive Salaries
  • A Global Environment that Fosters Diversity
  • Retirement Savings and Planning Benefits
  • Access to Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts 
  • Flexible Work Hours
OTHER DETAILS
  • Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
    • HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRM Federal contractor.