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Automotive Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Oetiker

Sales Engineer

Modesto, CA

We are the leading provider of high-end connecting solutions for automotive and industrial ... Education Bachelor level degree in Engineering or other field supplemented with relevant technical ...

Oetiker

Sales Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site +1

We are the leading provider of high-end connecting solutions for automotive and industrial ... Education Bachelor level degree in Engineering or other field supplemented with relevant technical ...

Navtech, Inc.

BT/WiFi Sr Engineer

Farmington, CA · On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

BT/WiFi Sr Engineer Peachtree City GA (Onsite Office), Farmington Hills (Onsite Office) 6 Months Contract * Sr Engineer is responsible for Automotive BT/WiFi services and features design, development ...

FM Industries

Engineer, Sustaining

Livermore, CA · On-site

$103K - $126K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related technical discipline. * 1 to 3 years of experience in precision manufacturing, semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace, medical or automotive or related ...

FM Industries

Quality Engineer 3

Livermore, CA · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

We specialize in build to print, precision machined components, anodizing and engineered thermal ... automotive or medical device sector * Ability to synthesize and distill technical analyses into ...

FM Industries

Quality Engineer 3

Livermore, CA · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

... automotive or medical device sector * Ability to synthesize and distill technical analyses into ... Extract vital parameters from customer drawings and engineering documents * Working knowledge and ...

George Reed, Inc.

Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$70K - $115K/yr

Responsibility includes the estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency. Prepare estimates with assistance from senior estimator and/or division manager and in some ...

4LEAF, Inc

Plans Check Engineer

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$39.62 - $48.41/hr

Advise architects, designers, contractors and developers on code and design requirements. * Assists in building inspectors on difficult or unusual code requirements for major structures. * Answers ...

4Leaf, Inc

Plans Check Engineer

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$39.62 - $48.41/hr

Advise architects, designers, contractors and developers on code and design requirements. * Assists in building inspectors on difficult or unusual code requirements for major structures. * Answers ...

4LEAF, Inc

Plans Check Engineer

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$39.62 - $48.41/hr

Advise architects, designers, contractors and developers on code and design requirements. * Assists in building inspectors on difficult or unusual code requirements for major structures. * Answers ...

Reed International

Mechanical Engineer

Hickman, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Mechanical Engineer for our Reed International location in Hickman, Ca. Come join a team with a great company culture that offers ...

Reed International

Mechanical Engineer

Hickman, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Mechanical Engineer for our Reed International location in Hickman, Ca. Come join a team with a great company culture that offers ...

Reed International

Mechanical Engineer

Hickman, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

We are looking for experienced Mechanical Engineers to support our ever-expanding needs. Based in Hickman, CA in the heart of the Central Valley California - we design and build the most rugged and ...

Reed International

Mechanical Engineer

Hickman, CA

$45 - $50/hr

"OUR PEOPLEAREOUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Mechanical Engineer for our Reed International location in Hickman, Ca. Come join a team with a great company culture that offers ...

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All JobsAutomotive Engineer JobsAutomotive Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA

Automotive Engineer information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$30

$36

$53

How much do automotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer in Modesto, CA is $36.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.69 and $36.54 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.
More about Automotive Engineer jobs

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What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Automotive Engineer jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Automotive Engineer job openings:

Automotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,403 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Sales Engineer

Oetiker

Modesto, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Joining  'TeamOetiker' means connecting with over 2,000 people in 32 countries and at 13 manufacturing sites. We are the leading provider of high-end connecting solutions for automotive and industrial applications. Our clamps, rings, straps and quick connectors can be found on virtually every car in the world and in millions of home plumbing systems and appliances. We are a privately owned, family-run business, with a long-term perspective and a focus on sustainable business success. Sound like a place where you want to be? Connect with us!

Job Description

Responsible for sales growth across entire West Coast with specific industries to include plumbing, data centers, medical and agricultural. Position will also grow and develop sales for our Metallic Quick Connector business in Automotive and Industrial Manufacturing segments. Position will require 50%+ travel throughout West Coast.

• Protects, grows, and supports sales for assigned regional customers. 
• Conducts new customer prospecting, opportunity generation, and relationship management using the 360° approach.
• Manages sales opportunities and activities using established systems for regional.
• Supports customer complaints and provides field service/support.
• Supports key account teams at local production locations.
• Manages time, resources, and learning effectively.

Qualifications

Predominant Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Knowledge of sales processes, sales principles, and applicable industries.
• Knowledge of internal support processes, quality management systems/principals, and how to apply them.
• Detailed knowledge of Oetiker products, applications, and assembly solutions.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills (written and verbal).
• Ability to build lasting business relationships.
• Mechanical and commercial aptitude
• Proven ability to learn.
• Ability to work with the highest levels of integrity and compliance.


Education
Bachelor level degree in Engineering or other field supplemented with relevant technical experience


Additional Information

At Oetiker, we don’t just sell parts — we engineer confidence. With decades of experience and a reputation for quality, we serve global markets in automotive, industrial, and medical sectors. Our Marlette facility plays a key role in delivering both exceptional products and customer support.

We offer:

  • A leadership role with global visibility and local impact
  • Hands-on training with innovative tools and systems
  • A collaborative, stable, and technically driven work environment
  • Competitive compensation and full benefits package
  • Opportunities for professional growth in a global organization

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply