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Automotive Development Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ITW Automotive

Design Engineer

Elmhurst, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY The Design Engineer supports the development, validation, and continuous improvement of flexible printed heater products for automotive and industrial applications. This position ...

Roush

Senior Vehicle Development Engineer

Allen Park, MI

$95K - $130K/yr

Lead Planning, conducting, and directing system and vehicle level automotive testing * Lead ... a Senior Vehicle Development Engineer, you will need: * Bachelor of Science in Mechanical ...

ROUSH

Senior Vehicle Development Engineer

Allen Park, MI · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Lead Planning, conducting, and directing system and vehicle level automotive testing * Lead ... a Senior Vehicle Development Engineer, you will need: * Bachelor of Science in Mechanical ...

Roush

Senior Vehicle Development Engineer

Allen Park, MI

$95K - $130K/yr

Lead Planning, conducting, and directing system and vehicle level automotive testing * Lead ... a Senior Vehicle Development Engineer, you will need: * Bachelor of Science in Mechanical ...

Novelis

Process Development Engineer

Bay Minette, AL

... automotive, beverage packaging and specialty markets. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Novelis ... The Process Development Engineer will develop and implement new products and processes to improve ...

HEXPOL TPE Americas LLC

Development Engineer

Broadview, IL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

... automotive, medical, consumer goods, and industrial applications. As part of the global Hexpol ... Overview We are seeking a passionate and energetic Development Engineer to join our dynamic team.

Altair Engineering, Inc.

Ensure all relevant OE requirements are met and completed in coordination with the responsible Automotive Engineer(s). * An efficient tire development in a timely manner. * Perform mold design using ...

Marmon

Product Development Engineer

Lake Forest, CA · Hybrid

$100K - $135K/yr

The company's products power a wide range of automotive and industrial systems, built with a ... Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams in engineering, product development, quality ...

Marmon

Product Development Engineer

Holly Springs, NC · Hybrid

$100K - $135K/yr

The company's products power a wide range of automotive and industrial systems, built with a ... Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams in engineering, product development, quality ...

Magna

Process Development Engineer - Assembly

Troy, MI · On-site

The Process Development Engineer (Assembly) will be responsible for designing, developing ... Experience in automotive or high-volume manufacturing preferred. * The ability to troubleshoot and ...

Marmon

Product Development Engineer

Michigan, ND · Hybrid

$100K - $135K/yr

The company's products power a wide range of automotive and industrial systems, built with a ... Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams in engineering, product development, quality ...

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All JobsAutomotive Development Engineer Jobs

Automotive Development Engineer information

See salary details

$49K

$96.2K

$153.5K

How much do automotive development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive development engineer in the United States is $96,155.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Automotive Development Engineer do?

An Automotive Development Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new vehicles or automotive components. They work on improving vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency by using advanced engineering principles and technology. Their tasks may include creating prototypes, conducting simulations, and collaborating with other engineers and departments to bring innovative automotive solutions to market. This role often involves problem-solving, project management, and staying updated with the latest industry standards and regulations.

What is the difference between Automotive Development Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectAutomotive Development EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; relevant certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; certifications vary by industry
Work EnvironmentAutomotive R&D labs, manufacturing plants, testing facilitiesDesign studios, manufacturing, R&D labs
Industry UsageAutomotive industry, vehicle manufacturers, suppliersVarious industries including automotive, aerospace, machinery
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Automotive Development Engineers focus on designing, testing, and improving vehicle systems and components, often working closely with automotive manufacturers. Mechanical Design Engineers have a broader scope, working on mechanical components across multiple industries. While both roles require engineering degrees and technical skills, Automotive Development Engineers specialize in vehicle-specific development, making them more aligned with automotive industry needs.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Development Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, proficiency in design principles, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of automotive industry standards or certifications like Six Sigma are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective teamwork enhance performance in this role. These skills ensure innovative, reliable vehicle designs and efficient collaboration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

How does an Automotive Development Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during the vehicle design process?

Automotive Development Engineers frequently work in cross-functional teams alongside designers, manufacturing engineers, and quality assurance specialists. Throughout the vehicle design process, they coordinate closely with these departments to ensure that engineering specifications align with design concepts, manufacturability, and safety standards. Daily responsibilities often include participating in team meetings, sharing technical updates, and troubleshooting issues that arise during prototyping or testing. This collaborative environment helps streamline workflow and ensures that the final product meets all regulatory and performance requirements.
More about Automotive Development Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Automotive Development Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Development Engineer jobs are:
Automotive Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 7% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,155 per year, or $46.2 per hour.
Assistant Chief Engineer

Assistant Chief Engineer

Optimal Inc.

Auburn Hills, MI

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Role details

  • Design Systems Engineer (DSC) / Assistant Chief Engineer-type role
  • Location: (100% onsite)
  • Focus on controller hardware (ECM, EVCU, TCM, DTCM)

Must-have

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (preferred) or related field
  • 2 years of automotive engineering experience
  • Background in control modules and electromechanical systems
  • DRE experience (background only, not acting as DRE)

Nice-to-have

  • Experience with sensors, actuators, control units
  • CAN communication protocols
  • Software calibration exposure
  • Automotive development process knowledge (DFMEA, validation, etc.)

Role focus

  • Systems-level engineering (not design release)
  • Requirements development and issue resolution
  • Electrical/communication integration across modules
  • Coordination with software, calibration, and DRE teams
  • Support cost/timing inputs for new programs and changes

Target profile

  • Strong technical project lead / systems mindset
  • Self-starter with minimal ramp-up needed
  • Automotive experience preferred, but open to adjacent industries (if quick to adapt)

Additional notes

  • Minimal CAD/design work (NX not required)
  • Contract with potential for conversion
  • Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S.

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