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Automotive Engineering Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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Automotive Engineering information

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$14

$22

$38

How much do automotive engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineering in Kentucky is $22.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Automotive engineers frequently encounter challenges such as balancing innovative design with safety and regulatory requirements, meeting tight project deadlines, and integrating new technologies within budget constraints. Additionally, they collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—such as design, manufacturing, and quality assurance—to ensure that all aspects of the vehicle meet performance and reliability standards. Adapting to rapid advancements in areas like electric vehicles and autonomous systems also requires continuous learning and flexibility.

What is automotive engineering?

Automotive engineering is a branch of vehicle engineering that focuses on the design, development, manufacturing, and testing of automobiles and their systems. Professionals in this field work on improving vehicle performance, safety, efficiency, and sustainability. They may specialize in specific areas such as engine design, electronics, materials, or aerodynamics. Automotive engineers collaborate with other engineers and designers to bring new vehicles and automotive technologies to market.

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, automotive systems, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (like CATIA or SolidWorks), simulation tools, and industry standards or certifications (such as ISO/TS 16949) is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate and innovate in multidisciplinary environments. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing reliable, safe, and efficient vehicles in a competitive global market.

What can you do with automotive engineering?

Automotive engineering involves designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing vehicles and their systems, including engines, transmissions, and safety features. Professionals in this field work in research and development, quality control, and production environments, often using tools like CAD software and adhering to industry standards. The role requires technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of automotive technologies and regulations.

What jobs do automotive engineers get?

Automotive engineers typically work as design engineers, development engineers, testing engineers, or manufacturing engineers. They are involved in designing, testing, and improving vehicles and automotive systems, often using CAD software and engineering principles. These roles are found in automotive manufacturers, suppliers, and research organizations.

What is the difference between Automotive Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectAutomotive EngineeringMechanical Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Automotive Engineering or Mechanical Engineering, certifications like SAEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, optional certifications in CAD or thermodynamics
Work EnvironmentAutomotive design labs, manufacturing plants, testing facilitiesFactories, research labs, design offices across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in automotive manufacturing and designBroad industry applications including aerospace, energy, manufacturing

Automotive Engineering focuses specifically on vehicle design, development, and testing, often requiring specialized automotive knowledge. Mechanical Engineering offers a broader scope, covering various mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles share foundational engineering principles, Automotive Engineering is tailored to the automotive sector, making it ideal for those interested in vehicle technology and innovation.

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Engineering jobs in Kentucky? For Automotive Engineering jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineering jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineering jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Automotive Engineering jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Automotive Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineering job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,624 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Manufacturing

CrossSafety Solutions Inc.

Lexington, KY

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Mechanical Engineer – Automotive Manufacturing


Location: Multiple U.S. Automotive Manufacturing Facilities
Compensation: Competitive hourly rate
Schedule: Overtime may be required based on project demand
Travel: 10–25% domestic & international depending on project

About CrossSafety

CrossSafety provides engineering and technical professionals to support large-scale automotive manufacturing, battery production, and new model launch programs across North America. We partner with industry‑leading OEMs to deliver safe, efficient, and high‑quality project execution.

Our clients seeking support are often looking to fill positions quickly and in multiple locations across the United States. As such we intend on developing a pool of interested and eligible candidates who can be utilized when our clients make their requests.

We are seeking Manufacturing Project Engineers to support various production engineering teams, including battery manufacturing, process engineering, equipment installation, new model development, and paint/vehicle manufacturing systems.

About the Role

Mechanical Project Engineers support mechanical system design, equipment installation, new model introduction, and facility commissioning across automotive manufacturing environments.

Work may include developing process layouts, managing new model changes, facilitating mechanical system startups, coordinating with contractors, and supporting mechanical design reviews.

Engineers in this role work with cross‑functional teams including construction, facilities, production engineering, and equipment suppliers to ensure safety, quality, and production readiness.

Key Responsibilities

Mechanical Engineering & System Development

  • Plan mechanical system requirements for new model introduction
  • Develop safe, high‑quality, and cost‑efficient process layouts and equipment concepts
  • Update and confirm CAD layouts for process and mechanical changes
  • Support mechanical building system startups and commissioning activities
  • Review mechanical product submittals, shop drawings, layouts, and design specifications

Installation & Commissioning

  • Work with contractors and vendors to coordinate equipment testing, delivery, installation, and commissioning
  • Oversee mechanical contractors to ensure schedule alignment and process compliance
  • Participate in weekend and plant shutdown work as needed
  • Conduct inspections of mechanical building systems to confirm compliance with project specifications and applicable codes

Project Management & Coordination

  • Manage sourced equipment procurement and installation activities
  • Support construction administration tasks such as schedule coordination, weekly meetings, quality confirmations, and utility outage planning
  • Prepare engineering reports, track project milestones, and provide status updates to project managers

Technical Problem Solving

  • Analyze new model content versus current model requirements and develop mechanical process countermeasures
  • Investigate mechanical issues using structured methods and recommend solutions
  • Provide technical direction on mechanical design criteria, safety practices, and compliance standards
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience
  • 3+ years of mechanical or manufacturing engineering experience
  • Experience with mechanical design, building systems, or equipment installation
  • Experience developing mechanical system design criteria
  • Automotive or OEM experience (engine, transmission, chassis, or vehicle assembly)
  • Strong organizational, communication, and schedule management skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Project
  • Proficient with AutoCAD; experience with CATIA or 3D modeling tools preferred
  • Ability to travel up to 50% depending on project demands
  • Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as required
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior Toyota experience, particularly in chassis or assembly engineering
  • Experience in mechanical design for industrial or automotive facilities (5+ years)
  • Experience with Bluebeam, AutoCAD, or other drafting tools
  • Strong hands‑on background in process and equipment concept development
  • Ability to manage multiple projects with a high focus on safety, quality, and cost
Why Join CrossSafety
  • Grow your technical and leadership skills alongside an established and expanding professional consulting firm
  • Join a team of over 150 supportive and safety-focused professionals including Industrial Hygienists, Ergonomists, Safety Engineers, Construction Safety Specialists, and industry-leading engineering teams
  • Advance your career by working Fortune 500 companies and in dynamic environments where your leadership truly matters
  • Contribute to high-impact industrial and construction projects across the United States
Equal Opportunity Employer

CrossSafety fosters an inclusive and respectful workplace. Accommodations are available upon request.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.