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Automotive Engineer Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Automotive Key Technician - Bremerton, WA DO YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF A CAR ENTHUSIAST? How does the ... Key programming relies heavily on specialized software. Slow adopters or those limited to basic ...

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Automotive Engineer information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$31

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How much do automotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer in Federal Way, WA is $38.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.62 and $38.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Are automotive engineers in demand?

Automotive engineers are in demand due to ongoing advancements in vehicle technology, electric vehicles, and autonomous systems. The field requires strong skills in CAD software, systems design, and knowledge of industry standards, with employment opportunities available in manufacturing, research, and development sectors.

What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineer jobs in Federal Way, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineer jobs in Federal Way, WA are:

What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Automotive Engineer jobs?

Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Automotive Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer job openings in Federal Way, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,873 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

ADAS Calibration & Diagnostic Automotive Technician

Crash Champions

Seattle, WA

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Crash Champions rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

172nd of 373 rated vehicle maintenance


Job description

Champions Do More

At Automotive Technology Experts (ATE), we understand the importance of providing fast and accurate vehicle diagnostic scanning and calibration services. We service hundreds of customers that rely on us to ensure that the repairs they have completed are safe and that the vehicle will operate as the manufacturer had intended.

ATE was founded in 2019 to provide technological and electrical repair expertise in the collision industry that struggles to stay current with the rapidly changing technology in vehicles. We now employ over 100 field technicians in 17 states. Our growth will continue as we employ team members that strive to be the best, commit to taking care of our customers, and continue to train so that they can accomplish team goals and career advancement opportunities.

POSITION SUMMARY: The ATE - Mobile Field Technician is a full-time position that reports directly to the ATE Mobile Field Technician Lead or Market Manager. The position owns day-to-day service operations and must build a good rapport with customers to establish open lines of communication.

The position is responsible for complex diagnostics, high-level electrical/technological knowledge, critical thinking/troubleshooting, ADAS calibrations for all makes/models, and a high sense of urgency to correlate with a high pace work environment.

Responsibilities

The position requires the ability to manage multiple tasks quickly and accurately, with tight deadlines, in a fast-paced environment. It necessitates a self-motivated individual who is willing to take on multiple tasks and interact with many different scenarios on a daily basis. Key responsibilities include:

  • Performing Mobile Services including but not limited to: ADAS Calibrations, Diagnostics, Connector/Wire Repair, Programming, Relearns, etc.
  • Walking service locations identifying and communicating ADAS calibrations and other services to customers
  • Sending performed service documentation via communication platform(s) to billing department
  • Assisting subordinate team members on difficult tasks
  • Maintaining daily or weekly production quota
  • Completing miscellaneous duties as assigned by dispatching team

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

  • 5+ years of automotive background servicing and diagnosing all automotive systems
  • Strong technological skills, including but not limited to: Outlook, Teams, Word, etc.
  • Strong working knowledge in ADAS and electrical performed services (calibrations, programming, diagnostics, wire/connector repair, etc.)
  • Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Continuous learner seeking to develop new skills and expand knowledge for maximum career progression
  • Must be able to remain productive, with a great sense of urgency
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time in automotive shop environments
  • Energetic, high sense of urgency, motivated to produce, passion for the industry, and positive representation of the ATE brand
  • Have a strong knowledge of electrical diagnostic equipment: multimeter, power probe, resistors, etc.
  • Ability to:
  • Read and understand factory and non-factory service information
  • Perform and analyze vehicle health analysis scans with factory and non-factory tooling
  • Read and understand vehicle wiring schematics
  • Perform wire/connector repair and/or replacement
  • Program vehicles with factory or non-factory software
  • Perform all level 1, 2, and 3 calibrations (Static & Dynamic)
  • Diagnose, correct, and verify all customer vehicle concerns
  • Explain and properly communicate diagnosis both verbally and written formats
  • A safe driving record and a valid Driver’s License required
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

Submit a Referral (https://ate-crashchampions.icims.com/jobs/2754/adas-calibration-%26-diagnostic-automotive-technician/job?mode=apply&apply=yes&in\_iframe=1&hashed=-1834383836)

Job Post Information* : Posted Date 1 week ago (12/18/2023 2:40 PM)

Job ID 2023-2754

\# of Openings _1_

Remote No


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About Crash Champions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1999, and based in Chicago, IL, Crash Champions, LLC ("Crash Champions"or the"Company") is the fifth largest independent collision repair chain in the United States, with an established presence in 17 states- and formal direct repair program ("DRP") relationships with most leading insurance carriers. The Company is led by founder and CEO Matt Ebert, who maintains an impressive track record of both organic and acquisition growth. As an acquiror of choice with a value-added capital partner, Crash Champions is expected to grow from a multi-regional business into a nationally recognized provider of collision repair services. Based upon the current pipeline of acquisitions and greenfield openings.

Industry

Motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts wholesalers

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Westmont, IL, US

Year founded

1999