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Automotive Engineer Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Epitec

Applications Engineer General

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Type: Contract * Job #104976 Job Title: Technical Value Management (TVM) Engineer Location ... The ideal candidate will have experience working within automotive product development environments ...

Surface Combustion

Engineering Contracts Manager

Maumee, OH · On-site

$83K - $112K/yr

Job Overview We are seeking an experienced Engineering Contract Manager to support our heat treat ... We work with all industries including agricultural, automotive, biomass, oil & gas, and powder ...

Surface Combustion

Engineering Contracts Manager

Maumee, OH · On-site

$83K - $112K/yr

BOE Job Overview We are seeking an experienced Engineering Contract Manager to support our heat ... We work with all industries including agricultural, automotive, biomass, oil & gas, and powder ...

Surface Combustion

Engineering Contracts Manager

Maumee, OH

$83K - $112K/yr

Job Overview We are seeking an experienced Engineering Contract Manager to support our heat treat ... We work with all industries including agricultural, automotive, biomass, oil & gas, and powder ...

Rimkus

Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist

Dallas, TX · On-site

Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute ... May also inspect and analyze automotive or mechanical parts for the origin and cause of failure.

Reliance One

Entry-Level Engineer

Toledo, OH

$27.58/hr

Entry-Level Product Quality Engineer Toledo, Ohio, United States $27.58 per hour Contract ... Contract Opportunity • Full-Time Hours • Hands-On Experience with a Leading Automotive ...

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Automotive Engineer Contract information

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How much do automotive engineer contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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.

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.

More about Automotive Engineer Contract jobs
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:
Automotive Engineer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer Contract job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,781 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Automotive Interior Engineer

Automotive Interior Engineer

SWJ TECHNOLOGY, LLC

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

SWJ Technologie specializes in providing engineering, planning, and project management services across various industries. We are currently seeking an Interior Engineer for an assigned project with a client in the automotive industry. The role is based in Novi, MI or Charlotte NC and requires onsite presence and occasional travel. If you are eager to grow your career and make a meaningful impact on exciting projects, we look forward to your application.
PURPOSE:
The Interior Engineer is responsible for the design, development, validation, and integration of vehicle interior systems and components. This role ensures that all interior parts meet functional, aesthetic, ergonomic, safety, quality, cost, and regulatory requirements while supporting program timing and manufacturing feasibility for next-generation vehicles.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and develop automotive interior components and systems, including:
    • Instrument panels
    • Door panels and trim
    • Center consoles
    • Seating components
    • Headliners, pillars, and interior trim
  • Translate styling themes and functional requirements into producible engineering designs
  • Create and maintain CAD models, drawings, and specifications
  • Conduct concept feasibility studies and trade-off analyses
  • Ensure compliance with automotive standards and regulations (FMVSS, ECE, OEM-specific)
  • Support prototype builds, tooling development, and production launch activities
  • Perform DFMEA, tolerance analysis, and validation testing (fit, finish, acoustics, durability, ergonomics)
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with:
    • Styling and UX teams
    • Manufacturing and quality teams
    • Purchasing and supply chain
    • Suppliers and external partners
  • Manage supplier technical deliverables and support supplier design reviews
  • Support cost reduction, weight optimization, and material selection initiatives
  • Track issues and lead problem-solving through engineering change management
  • Participate in vehicle integration reviews and build events
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
  • Proven experience in automotive interior component design and development.
REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Expertise in interior systems with specialization in one or more of the following:
    • Restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
    • Carpets, soft trim, and insulators
  • Proficiency in CAD tools (CATIA V5/V6, NX, or Creo).
  • Strong understanding of injection-molded plastics and soft trim materials (e.g., TPO, leather, fabric, foam).
  • Solid knowledge of structural and cosmetic design requirements.
  • Experience with GD&T and production tolerancing.
  • Familiarity with automotive development cycles and product launch processes.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
  • Ability to work effectively with suppliers and external partners.
  • Knowledge of VW systems is a plus.
  • Proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking).
  • Ability to follow engineering direction and adapt designs to meet safety, regulatory, and performance requirements. Exposure to functional safety concepts (ISO 26262)
REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Experience with Volkswagen
  • Willingness to travel

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Work is normally performed in an office, laboratory, manufacturing floor, or machine shop setting where physical work includes, but is not limited to sitting, standing, reaching, kneeling, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs.
  • Must be able to understand and comply with all relevant safety practices.

FLSA STATUS/WORKING SCHEDULE:
  • Location: Novi, MI or Charlotte NC
  • Schedule: Full Time/ 40 hours per week
  • Travel: 20% domestics travel
  • Overtime: as required
  • Assignment Start: June 2026 - December 2030
  • Duration: up to 4.5 years

DISCLAIMER:
This job description is a high-level overview of general expectations of this position. It is not intended to list every responsibility of the position, nor does it represent an employment contract of any kind.
SWJ TECHNOLOGY and all of its subsidiaries (i.e., SWJ MACHINING and ProjectOne US) are Equal Opportunity Employers and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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