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Automotive Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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This is an outstanding opportunity for a recent engineering graduate or early-career engineer with a genuine passion for automobiles and hands-on vehicle work. In this role, you'll work alongside ...

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Automotive Engineer information

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$24

$30

$44

How much do automotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer in Michigan is $30.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.02 and $30.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 typically require a bachelor's degree, strong technical expertise, and leadership responsibilities, especially in large companies or specialized fields like electric vehicles or autonomous systems.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a relevant degree in automotive or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards such as ISO and SAE, as well as certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), are typically required. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and respond to rapidly changing technologies. These skills ensure successful vehicle design, compliance with safety standards, and innovation in a competitive automotive market.

What Does an Automotive Engineer Do?

Automotive engineers design, develop, and test the mechanical components and subsystems of vehicles. As an automotive engineer, you may be asked to create engineering specifications, conduct design reviews, provide technical direction to other staff, modify existing parts in a lab, or perform various analyses. In some cases, automotive engineers perform emergency tests and checks to search for manufacturing defects and decide whether or not a recall should be ordered.

What does an automotive engineer do?

An automotive engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing vehicles and their subsystems. They work on improving the performance, safety, and efficiency of cars, trucks, and other automobiles. Their work often involves collaborating with other engineers to create new technologies, address regulatory requirements, and solve engineering challenges in vehicle production. Automotive engineers may specialize in areas such as structural design, electronics, or powertrain systems.

What exactly do automotive engineers do?

Automotive engineers design, develop, and test vehicles and vehicle components, focusing on safety, performance, and efficiency. They use tools like CAD software and may work on areas such as engine systems, aerodynamics, or electronics, often collaborating with manufacturing teams and adhering to industry standards.

What are some common challenges automotive engineers face when working on new vehicle models?

Automotive engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing innovative design with strict safety and regulatory standards. They must also work within tight project timelines and budget constraints, all while ensuring that new technologies are both reliable and manufacturable at scale. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams—including designers, software specialists, and manufacturing engineers—is essential to address issues such as integration of electronics, fuel efficiency, and sustainability. Navigating these complexities requires strong problem-solving skills and adaptability.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced automotive engineers working in senior management, executive roles, or specialized consulting can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such compensation typically requires extensive expertise, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities within large corporations or high-performance sectors.

What is the difference between Automotive Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAutomotive EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or related fields; possibly certifications like SAE or ASEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; professional engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentAutomotive manufacturing plants, R&D labs, design studiosFactories, design offices, research labs across various industries
Industry UsageAutomotive industry focus on vehicle design, testing, and productionBroad industry application including aerospace, manufacturing, energy, and more

Automotive Engineers specialize in vehicle design, testing, and manufacturing within the automotive industry, often requiring specific automotive certifications. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working across multiple industries with similar foundational skills. Both roles share core engineering principles but differ in industry focus and application.

What can I do with automotive engineering?

Automotive engineers design, develop, and test vehicles and their components, including engines, safety features, and electronics. They work in manufacturing, research and development, and testing environments, often using CAD software and engineering tools. Careers can include roles in vehicle design, quality assurance, and systems integration, requiring technical skills and knowledge of industry standards.
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 jobs in Michigan? For Automotive Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Automotive Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Automotive Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,120 per year, or $30.3 per hour.
PHD Automotive Engineer - Southfield, MI

PHD Automotive Engineer - Southfield, MI

Info-Ways

Southfield, MI

Contractor

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Company Description

IT

Job Description

Role: PHD Automotive Engineer
Location: Southfield, MI
Duration: 6+ Months
BGV will be done for the selected candidates.
Must have worked in Automotive Industry
Must have PhD with 3 to 10 years of experience in Research and Development.
Good knowledge about camera sensor, LIDAR, RADAR, ADAS
Has good understanding of requirement management.
Communicate with stake holders including internal and external.
Has published white papers, case studies on sensors, data acquisition and processing
Has played lead role in his previous assignments
Good knowledge of Automotive Subsystems, CAN, LIN, embedded OS's, Robotics must
Fundamentals of programming languages C, C# or Java
Strong communication and presentation skills
Independent, self-motivator and quick learner
Please respond with your word resume and requested details:
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