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Automotive Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Rivian

Staff Systems Homologation Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Qualifications * 10+ years' experience in the automotive industry in systems, electronics, software, or calibration engineering , with significant exposure to safety or regulationdriven functions.

Rivian

Staff Systems Homologation Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Qualifications * 10+ years' experience in the automotive industry in systems, electronics, software, or calibration engineering , with significant exposure to safety- or regulation-driven functions.

Rivian

Durability Data Analytics Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

A good understanding of vehicle physics and automotive engineering. * Passion for Rivian's mission and commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative workplace. * 1-3 years ...

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All JobsAutomotive Engineer JobsAutomotive Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Automotive Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$29

$36

$53

How much do automotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer in Riverside, CA is $36.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.36 and $36.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automotive engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in design and systems integration, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or companies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives, typically requiring advanced degrees and specialized certifications.

What is the highest paid automotive engineer?

The highest paid automotive engineers typically work in senior or executive roles such as lead engineers, R&D managers, or specialized consultants, often earning over $150,000 annually. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry sector, with those in advanced research, electric vehicle development, or working for major automakers or tech companies earning the highest compensation.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior automotive engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in design and systems, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000, especially in high-paying industries or companies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires advanced degrees and certifications. These roles are usually found in executive or specialized engineering positions within the automotive sector.

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 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.

What jobs can automotive engineers do?

Automotive engineers can work in vehicle design, development, testing, and manufacturing. They often specialize in areas such as powertrain systems, safety features, or electronics, and may work in research labs, production plants, or design studios. Strong skills in CAD software, physics, and materials science are essential for these roles.
More about Automotive Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? For Automotive Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Automotive Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Automotive Engineer job openings:
Automotive Engineer jobs near you

Automotive Technician

Eddies Auto Care 2

Yucaipa, CA • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Careers Advancement Opportunities
  • Competitive Compensation
  • 401k
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation
Job Summary
We are looking for an Automotive Technician to join our service center.
As an Automotive Technician, you will be responsible for diagnosing and repairing vehicles. You must be comfortable using computer software tablet system to perform inspection and update job tickets
Responsibilities
  • Use your expertise and diagnostic tools to evaluate vehicle malfunction codes
  • Carry out routine vehicle maintenance tasks such as tire rotations, oil changes, and brake pad replacements
  • Conduct in-depth vehicle inspections of all systems, including engine, transmission, and brakes
  • Ensure a high level of customer satisfaction and repeat business
  • Convey necessary vehicle repair information to service writer
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED is required
  • Valid Drivers License
  • An associate degree or completion of an automotive service technician training program is preferred
  • Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is preferred
  • Strong communications skills are required