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Automotive Engineer Contract Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Data Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$133K - $160K/yr

AV Safety Data Engineer (Contract) The Safety Strategy & Operations team is responsible for ... AV, Automotive, Transportation Engineering, or a closely related industry. Strong programming ...

Data Engineer

Foster City, CA

$133K - $160K/yr

AV Safety Data Engineer (Contract) The Safety Strategy & Operations team is responsible for ... AV, Automotive, Transportation Engineering, or a closely related industry. Strong programming ...

Data Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$133K - $160K/yr

AV Safety Data Engineer (Contract) The Safety Strategy Operations team is responsible for ... AV, Automotive, Transportation Engineering, or a closely related industry. Strong programming ...

FERRARI OF NEWPORT BEACH is seeking an ambitious Automotive Contracts Clerk who shares our passion ... Working with Ferrari means working with one of the World's most powerful brands, engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automotive Engineer Contract information

See California salary details

$29

$48

$97

How much do automotive engineer contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer contract in California is $48.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.58 and $50.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automotive engineer contract?

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 typical responsibilities of an automotive engineer contract?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an automotive engineer contract position?

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.

Is there a demand for automotive engineers?

Automotive engineers are in demand due to ongoing advancements in vehicle technology, electric vehicles, and autonomous systems. Employers seek professionals with skills in CAD, systems integration, and knowledge of industry standards, making it a stable career choice with opportunities in manufacturing, design, and research sectors.

What type of automotive engineers make the most money?

Senior automotive engineers specializing in powertrain, vehicle dynamics, or advanced electronics tend to earn the highest salaries. Engineers with specialized skills in autonomous vehicle technology, electric vehicle systems, or working in leadership roles also typically earn more. Advanced certifications and experience in cutting-edge automotive technologies can further increase earning potential.

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

The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Automotive Engineer Contract jobs?

Cities in California with the most Automotive Engineer Contract job openings:

Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer Contract job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,448 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Senior Full Stack Software Engineer (Contract Position)

OffWorld

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$125 - $185/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Senior Full Stack Software Engineer (Contract Position)

Senior Full Stack Software Engineer (Contract)

Based in Pasadena, CA

OffWorld is a robotics startup working on developing amobilerobotic workforce for heavy industrial jobs on Earth, Moon, asteroids & Mars. OffWorld was founded by an experienced engineering team drawing on decades of tackling formidable engineering challenges at NASA, ESA,NOAA,MaxarTechnologies, CERN, Reaction Engines, SAFRAN, Surrey Satellites and Cisco.OffWorld’sfirst challenge is developing and maturing a modular robotic system forextremeenvironmentson Earth. Ourrobots willgo deeper underground and farthest on Earth than humans can,eliminate the need for humans to work in life-threatening environmentsin mining, construction, tunneling and other dangerousindustries,and dramatically reduce the environmental footprint and cost ofoperationsin key economies on Earth and beyond.

We have designed a modular robotic architecture that focuses on maximizing the commonality and reusability across components for fast deployment and optimization. Our robotic systems combine sensor information, cutting edge classical/machine learning (ML) algorithms and a robotics real-time system platform for control, decision making and execution.

We are looking for a Senior Full Stack Software Engineer who will be responsible for the implementation of the real-time Software Platform architecture. You will be working with our Software Architect to implement key front and back-end functionality for the operation of our robots, including the user interface for swarm/multi-unit robot autonomous operations monitoring and exception management, data processing stack, fault detection, isolation and recovery handling, health management, process management, and other functions.

You will have the unique opportunity of developing systems for high end robots working as a swarm in extreme environments. Your work will be instrumental to ensure effective swarm autonomous operations is achieved with maximum human visualization and minimal human intervention. You will work with the Mechatronics, Machine Learning and Robotics & Controls engineers to ensure interfaces to the firmware, controls and ML modules is seamless.

Your work will entail both design and implementation of the full data processing layer for the real time operation of our swarm of robots, including telemetry, point cloud and other sensor related data processing. You will contribute to the design and implementation of intuitive interfaces (computer and smart pad displays, joysticks, and other types of interfaces) that can ensure low workload and maximum situational awareness for remote monitoring using low latency networking infrastructure. Experience with full stack software engineering for real time mobile app visualization is required. Human Centered Design and UX/UI design principles knowledge for effective operational decision making with minimum workload is a plus.

To hit the ground running, you need:

  • Bachelorsor higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering or equivalent with at least 5years of professional experience.
  • Experience in the development of full stack solutions for applications in robotics, IOT, industrial, automotive or equivalent.
  • Extensive experience in the design of core pieces of software architecture which address product requirements.
  • Experience with the implementation of solutions for multiple platforms, such as computer, tablet and phone displays, as well as hybrid solutions (display and joystick, etc). VR/AR integration experience for the gamification of user interactions with specialized equipment is a plus.
  • Experience in well-designed, reusable applications and libraries, working closely with end-users to map user problems and requirements into an intuitive, effective designs.
  • Experience with UX/UI design, including wireframing and workflow design in InVision or equivalent is a plus.
  • Knowledge of Python, C/C++. Experience with Redis, InfluxDB and other database technologies is a plus.
  • Knowledge of ROS is a plus.
  • Excellent verbal and written/online communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage and organize your work to meet deadlines. Comfortable multi-tasking/working on different projects concurrently.
  • Self-driven, passionate, and constantly pursuing knowledge and excellence.
  • Nothing-is-impossible attitude

In a nutshell, we offer the:

  • Opportunity to sink your teeth into cutting edge industrial robotics problems
  • Opportunity to contribute to the mission of transforming how we mine on Earth today and how we will one day mine on the Moon, asteroids & Mars
  • Opportunity to work with a kind, brilliant and supportive team
  • Opportunityto join theOffWorldteam if
    • You are as crazy-excited about the mission as we are
    • You’ve demonstrated you are The Right Stuff

Expected Compensation:

  • $125,000 - $185,000/annual salary + stock awards + benefits

Our benefits package includes the following:

  • Robust medical plan offerings with 0 to limited paycheck deductions
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off
  • Paternal Leave
  • 401K Match

Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

OffWorld is an Equal Opportunity / Aff…? All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

OffWorld is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

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