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Automotive Engineer Contract Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

DISHER

Controls Engineer - Contract

Grand Rapids, MI

$80K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer - Contract DISHER is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for a 3 month ... Support for in-house build and light field support of installed automotive test systems * Provide ...

DISHER

Controls Engineer - Contract

Grand Rapids, MI

$80K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer - Contract DISHER is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for a 3 month ... Support for in-house build and light field support of installed automotive test systems * Provide ...

DISHER

Controls Engineer - Contract

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer - Contract DISHER is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for a 3 month ... Support for in-house build and light field support of installed automotive test systems * Provide ...

Epitec

Systems Engineer Controls

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$42.30/hr

Contract * Job #105484 Overview We're seeking a Systems Engineer Controls (Cloud Prognostics ... Work with automotive communication protocols including CAN, LIN, and Ethernet. * Collaborate with ...

EDAG Mexico

Body Systems Testing Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or ... German A2 (desirable) * 2.5 years temporary contract in Novi, Michigan MAKING IMPOSSIBLE THINGS ...

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All JobsAutomotive Engineer Contract JobsAutomotive Engineer Contract Jobs in Michigan

Automotive Engineer Contract information

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$26

$42

$86

How much do automotive engineer contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer contract in Michigan is $42.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.82 and $44.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a high demand for automotive engineers?

Automotive engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing advancements in vehicle technology, electric vehicles, and autonomous systems. Employers seek professionals with skills in CAD, systems integration, and certifications like SAE, especially as the automotive industry shifts toward innovation and sustainability.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automotive engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in design and systems, and leadership roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with specialized expertise, working in high-demand sectors, or holding executive-level positions within automotive companies.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced automotive engineers, especially those in executive or specialized roles such as chief engineers or senior R&D directors, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive industry experience, and leadership responsibilities within automotive companies or engineering firms.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior automotive engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in design and testing, and often specialized certifications can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level roles in automotive engineering, especially in leadership or specialized fields like autonomous vehicles or powertrain development, tend to have higher compensation. Salary levels also depend on the company, location, and individual expertise.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Engineer Contract jobs in Michigan? For Automotive Engineer Contract jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineer Contract jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineer Contract jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Automotive Engineer Contract jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Automotive Engineer Contract job openings:
Automotive Engineer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer Contract job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,712 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Controls Engineer - Contract

DISHER

Grand Rapids, MI

$80K - $103K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Controls Engineer - Contract
 
DISHER is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for a 3 month contract opportunity with a customer that is in Grand Rapids, MI. 
 
What it's like to work here:
Make a positive difference! It’s why we exist. We are always looking for teammates who are eager to use their diverse set of talents with our customers, coworkers, and communities. We want to leave this world better than we found it.
What you will get to do:
  • Design of electrical control systems with little supervision
  • Provide PLC & HMI programming for machine control systems
  • Technical support for manufacturing
  • Support for in-house build and light field support of installed automotive test systems
  • Provide complete control systems for machines with minimal assistance  
  • Ensure effective communication with customers, product and project managers, and team members in defining system requirements, system operation, and schedule planning while managing multiple projects 
  • Assist with machine start-ups and assist with coordination of installation services as needed 
  • Program and troubleshoot control systems by working with the assembly and engineering teams  
  • Train other Controls Engineers and Electrical Engineers 
What will make you successful:

  • BSEE with emphasis on controls or systems design or demonstrable knowledge of Electrical and Control System concepts used in our industry 

  • 5+ years experience preferred 

  • Variable frequency drive experience 

  • PLC experience: AB and Siemens required (Mitsubishi, GE, Omron, and others are a plus) 

  • Basic understanding of industrial networking 

  • Basic understanding of pneumatics/hydraulics 

  • Ability to use AutoCAD or EPLAN 

  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally (10-20%) 

  • Ability to create electrical print sets as necessary 

  • Ability to create and maintain bills of material for projects 

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office 

  • Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customers using tact and diplomacy  

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.