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Automotive Design Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer Staff

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Effectively interacts with other internal and external teams, including the design engineering ... Experience in highly automated environments (automotive, semiconductors, high‑volume ...

Controls Engineer Staff

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Effectively interacts with other internal and external teams, including the design engineering ... Experience in highly automated environments (automotive, semiconductors, high-volume manufacturing ...

Effectively interacts with other internal and external teams, including the design engineering ... Experience in highly automated environments (automotive, semiconductors, high‑volume ...

Senior Staff Controls Engineer

Ashburn, VA · Remote

$99K - $131K/yr

Effectively interacts with other internal and external teams, including the design engineering ... Experience in highly automated environments (automotive, semiconductors, high‑volume ...

Senior Staff Controls Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Effectively interacts with other internal and external teams, including the design engineering ... Experience in highly automated environments (automotive, semiconductors, high-volume manufacturing ...

Senior Staff Controls Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Effectively interacts with other internal and external teams, including the design engineering ... Experience in highly automated environments (automotive, semiconductors, high-volume manufacturing ...

... automotive market. That means refusing to choose between performance and sustainability, design and engineering, ambition and integrity. In Lucid Air and Lucid Gravity, we have designed and built ...

... automotive market. That means refusing to choose between performance and sustainability, design and engineering, ambition and integrity. In Lucid Air and Lucid Gravity, we have designed and built ...

We are seeking a Senior Business Intelligence Engineer to lead the design, development, and ... Automotive industry experience with dealership, OEM, consumer, telematics, aftermarket, finance, or ...

Staff Structural Engineer

Hanover, MD · Hybrid

$85K - $125K/yr

... design solutions for projects across sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, technology, utilities, and rail. Our team welcomes either a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or an ...

Be Seen First

The software engineer designs and maintains programs and systems. They assist project management in ... Design, modify, refactor, and develop software to high standards. Determines operational ...

Principal Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$137K - $184K/yr

Design software solutions that capture, process, analyze, and manage image and video data ... automotive systems. * Experience serving as a technical lead, principal engineer, or mentor to ...

Showing results 21-40

Automotive Design Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$45.9K

$99.8K

$179.5K

How much do automotive design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design engineer in Washington is $99,838.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $111,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automotive design engineer do?

An Automotive Design Engineer is responsible for developing and improving vehicle designs, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and safety. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create blueprints and collaborate with engineers to refine concepts. Their work includes designing body structures, interiors, and aerodynamics while ensuring compliance with industry standards. They also test prototypes and analyze performance to enhance efficiency and durability.

What does a typical day look like for an automotive design engineer?

As an Automotive Design Engineer, your days often involve collaborating with other engineers and designers to create and refine vehicle components using CAD tools, participating in design reviews, and ensuring that your solutions meet safety and regulatory standards. You might analyze prototypes, troubleshoot design challenges, and incorporate feedback from cross-functional partners such as manufacturing or testing teams. It's common to split time between computer-based design work and hands-on activities like inspecting prototypes or components. This role offers a dynamic mix of creative problem-solving, technical analysis, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, proficiency in CAD software, and a strong understanding of automotive systems and materials. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like CATIA, SolidWorks, and relevant certifications such as FE or PE are highly valued. Creativity, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help set candidates apart in this field. These skills and qualities enable engineers to develop innovative vehicle designs that meet safety, performance, and manufacturing requirements within cross-functional teams.

How much do automotive design engineers make in the US?

Automotive design engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $75,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or advanced degrees can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Automotive Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Automotive Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Automotive Design Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,838 per year, or $48 per hour.

Controls Engineer Staff

Ashburn, VA • On-site

Equinix, Inc.
Software Development • 5 - 10K employees

$85K - $110K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Equinix rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 261 rated facilities management


Job description

Who are we?

Equinix is the world’s digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet.

A place where bold ideas are welcomed, human connection is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to shape their future. A career at Equinix means being at the center of shaping what comes next and amplifying customer value through innovation and impact. You’ll work across teams, influence key decisions, and help shape the path forward. You’ll find belonging, purpose, and a team that welcomes you—because when you feel valued, you’re empowered to do your best work.

The Staff Controls Engineer performs advanced system maintenance and support. Leads complex projects using internal and external resources. Assists with development and implementation of policies and procedures. Effectively interacts with other internal and external teams, including the design engineering, site engineering, regional operations teams, onsite support vendors and consultants on projects, policies and procedures to resolve complex matters.

Responsibilities System Operation and Work Practices
  • Expert operating knowledge of control systems to include advanced diagnostics and repairs
  • Ability to apply knowledge of Equinix process and procedure and industry standards to resolve complex issues
  • Utilizes safe working practices at an expert level (e.g. can apply procedure for lockout/tagout, can explain MSDS, etc.)
  • Evaluates and assures the safe working practices of others
  • Interacts with other engineering disciplines
Problem Solving
  • Consistently solves complex, cross-functional issues requiring independent action and a high degree of initiative to resolve
  • Implements and makes recommendations for complex system level enhancements to eliminate potential problems
  • Tests suitability of components for deployments on complex assignments
Internal/External Contact
  • Contributes to mentoring junior team members
  • Directs internal and external project team members
  • Directs teams per project or initiative such as General Contractors, design teams, commissioning agents, equipment suppliers, etc.
  • Expert level communication to include cross functional SOP development and relevant technical writing
  • Interactions are primarily to exchange information between departments within the organization
  • Includes executive level communications in standardized templates
Technical Expertise
  • Has thorough understanding of advanced electrical, fire protection, and HVAC systems operation including advanced optimization strategies and deficiencies
  • Has expert controls system knowledge sufficient to rapidly comprehend new systems
  • Is a subject matter expert to others in and outside of the group
  • Extensive knowledge of multiple facets of controls engineering
  • Develops and executes projects
  • Reviews budget and scope, calculates savings pertaining to control system replacement projects
  • Tests suitability of components or action plans for deployments
  • Understands server operating systems, networks, and cyber security best practices.
Training
  • Acquires knowledge by expanding experience with systems, vendor training, participation in industry groups or meetings and shadowing others
  • Is SME with many systems and trains others inside and outside of the group
Develop Policy/Methods
  • Participates in review of and contributes to development of policy and procedure documents
Assess Adherence to Policy
  • Assures adherence to developed standards and policy through review of documentation, participation in commissioning activities and IBX physicals
Qualifications
  • Typically 3+ years in control system design, operations, maintenance, and project planning with a emphasis and special focus on controls preferred.
  • Bachelors degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Controls, Mechatronics, or related discipline is preferred.
  • Experience in highly automated environments (automotive, semiconductors, high‑volume manufacturing), Data Center Technical Engineering and Operations support is preferred.
  • Knowledge of electrical, HVAC controls, and fire protection systems
  • Ability to lead complex system troubleshooting, upgrades, commissioning, and vendor evaluations

The targeted pay range for this position in the following location is / locations are:

United States - DC10 Washington DC : 100,000 - 150,000 USD / Annual

Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and location.

The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.

The targeted pay range listed reflects the base pay only and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Employees are eligible for bonus, and equity may be offered depending on the position.

Equinix Benefits

As an employee, you become important to Equinix’s success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. We keep them competitive within the current marketplace to ensure we’re providing you with the best package possible. So, wherever you are in your career and life, you’ll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work.

Employee Assistance Program

An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees.

US Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in health, life, disability and voluntary plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You and Equinix may contribute to a retirement plan to help you plan for your financial future. - Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays: You will receive an accrued amount of PTO each pay period along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific plan or program terms.

Equinix is committed to ensuring that our employment process is open to all individuals, including those with a disability. If you are a qualified candidate and need assistance or an accommodation, please let us know by completing a form.

Equinix is an Equal Employment Opportunity and, in the U.S., an affirmatively action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to unlawful consideration of race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, place of birth, citizenship, sex, pregnancy / childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, age, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, political / organizational affiliation, status as a victim or family member of a victim of crime or abuse, or any other status protected by applicable law.

We use artificial intelligence in our hiring process. Learn more here.

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