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Automotive Engineer Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Automotive Engineer Contract information

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$30

$48

$99

How much do automotive engineer contract jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer contract in the United States is $48.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.11 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Automotive Engineer Contract job?

An Automotive Engineer Contract job is a temporary or project-based position where an engineer works on designing, developing, testing, or improving automotive systems and components. These contracts are typically offered by automotive manufacturers, suppliers, or engineering firms and may last several months to a few years. Contract engineers may specialize in areas such as powertrain, chassis, electronics, or safety systems, depending on the company's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Automotive Engineer Contract position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Engineer Contract, you need a solid background in automotive engineering principles, mechanical design, and prototyping, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and prior industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software (like CATIA or SolidWorks), automotive testing equipment, and industry standards such as ISO/TS 16949 is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and adaptability are key soft skills that help manage project-based work and shifting client needs. These abilities ensure high-quality engineering solutions, smooth project delivery, and successful collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in dynamic automotive environments.

What are the typical responsibilities of an Automotive Engineer on a contract basis?

As an Automotive Engineer working on a contract basis, you will typically focus on specific projects such as designing, testing, or optimizing vehicle components and systems within set timelines. Responsibilities often include collaborating with design teams, producing technical documentation, performing simulations or prototype testing, and ensuring all solutions meet client and regulatory requirements. You may work independently or as part of a project-focused team, interacting closely with other engineers, project managers, and sometimes suppliers. Contract roles offer the opportunity to gain exposure to diverse projects and technologies, helping you build expertise and expand your professional network within the automotive industry.
What cities are hiring for Automotive Engineer Contract jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Engineer Contract job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Automotive Engineer Contract jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Engineer Contract jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineer Contract jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineer Contract jobs are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer Contract job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,781 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Automotive Engineer

$106.44K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

As an Automotive Engineer, you will serve as an expert and authoritative advisor to management on vehicle engineering technical specifications.
Location of position: GSA, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of Fleet Mgmt, Vehicle Purchasing Div., Office of Travel, Transportation and Logistics (TTL) provides governmentwide solutions for travel, transportation, fleet management, and emergency management. 

We are currently filling two vacancies, but additional vacancies may be filled as needed.

Qualifications:

For each job on your resume, provide:

  • the exact dates you held each job (from month/year to month/year)
  • number of hours per week you worked (if part time).    

If you have volunteered your service through a National Service program (e.g., Peace Corps, Americorps), we encourage you to apply and include this experience on your resume.
The GS-13 salary range starts at $106,437 per year. Salary is dependent upon duty location.

If you are a new federal employee, your starting salary will likely be set at the Step 1 of the grade for which you are selected.  

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR ENGINEERS: A Degree in professional engineering OR a combination of college-level education, training, and/or technical experience. For specifics on qualifying education and/or experience - use the following link: Basic Requirements for Engineer Positions.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:

In addition to the Basic Requirements listed above, you must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 in the Federal service.

Specialized experience is experience applying technical knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, techniques, methods, and precedents to include:

  •  Evaluating vehicles and vehicle standards to determine suitability for customers' mission requirements; 
  •  Analyzing mechanical needs by participating in the review of vehicle program activities to identify problems (e.g. problems involving design, safety, performance, and contract technical requirements); and
  • Identifying vehicle requirements to assist with fleet purchase (e.g.  vehicle descriptions, vehicle performance and vehicle inspections to design and construct final motor vehicle builds).

This position has a positive education requirement: Applicants must submit a copy of their college or university transcript(s) and certificates by the closing date of announcements to verify qualifications. If selected, an official transcript will be required prior to appointment.

Education:

Note: If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/ 

Employment Type: OTHER