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Automotive Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SWJ TECHNOLOGY, LLC

OBD Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

We are currently seeking an OBD 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 20 ...

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Engineer - Calibration / Automotive

Chelsea, MI · On-site

$30.80/hr

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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Rocklin Automotive

Automotive Technician

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is preferred * Strong customer service and communications skills are required

Rocklin Automotive

Automotive Technician

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is preferred * Strong customer service and communications skills are required

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All JobsAutomotive Engineer Jobs

Automotive Engineer information

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$28

$34

$50

How much do automotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer in the United States is $34.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.01 and $34.62 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.
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Automotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer 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 $72,419 per year, or $34.8 per hour.
OBD Engineer

OBD Engineer

SWJ TECHNOLOGY, LLC

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

SWJ Technologie specializes in providing engineering, planning, and project management services across various industries. We are currently seeking an OBD 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 20% domestics travel. If you are eager to grow your career and make a meaningful impact on exciting projects, we look forward to your application.
PURPOSE:
We are seeking an experienced OBD Diagnostics Engineer to lead the strategy, development, and implementation of On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) for Energy Systems in electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This role ensures regulatory compliance, robust diagnostics coverage, and superior serviceability across HV Battery, Charging, Thermal, HVAC, and 12V systems.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lead OBD strategy and development for Energy Systems across EV and PHEV platforms.
  • Ensure compliance with OBD regulations and standards (e.g., J1968, J1979).
  • Define and maintain the Energy Systems OBD roadmap.
  • Partner with Systems Engineering teams to execute OBD strategies.
  • Collaborate with hardware and software teams to integrate OBD into system architecture.
  • Develop and maintain diagnostic data using Vector .cdd format.
  • Manage OBD requirements within lifecycle management tools (e.g., Codebeamer).
  • Drive continuous improvement of OBD processes, methodologies, and toolchains.
  • Develop and maintain Design Verification Plans (DVPs) for diagnostics validation.
  • Support vehicle calibration and validation activities, including test trips.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship on OBD topics.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical, Automotive, or Systems Engineering
  • Relevant experience in OBD diagnostics development within automotive industry
  • Experience working with cross-functional teams (HW/SW/System/Validation)
REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Strong knowledge of automotive OBD systems and diagnostics architecture
  • Experience with OBD regulations and standards (SAE J1968, J1979)
  • Familiarity with Vector tools (e.g., CANdela Studio, .cdd files)
  • Understanding of EV systems:
    • HV Battery (BMS)
    • Charging systems
    • Thermal and HVAC systems
    • 12V energy systems
  • Experience with requirements management tools (e.g., Codebeamer)
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Cross-functional collaboration and communication skills
REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Experience with Volkswagen
  • Experience with EV/PHEV platforms
  • Knowledge of ISO standards related to diagnostics and safety
  • Experience in calibration and vehicle testing
  • Familiarity with CAN/LIN/Ethernet communication protocols
  • Experience in Agile or model-based development environments
  • 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 to4.5 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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