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Automotive Engineering Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Hands-on technical background such as an engineering R&D lab, academic research lab, aerospace test facility, aircraft mechanic, capital equipment or automation machinery, automotive mechanic, or ...

As a Technical Sales Engineer at Henkel's Automotive Components Business Unit, you will be ... resources (i.e., Application Engineering, Product Development, Product Line Management,

... automotive aftermarket customers all around the world. * Our territory sales team members are a ... engineering, and other functions to deliver an excellent customer experience while driving ...

Industrial Systems Engineer

Gresham, OR

$73K - $99K/yr

... engineering statistics and automated data systems. onsemi (Nasdaq: ON) is driving disruptive innovations to help build a better future. With a focus on automotive and industrial end-markets, the ...

Industrial Systems Engineer

Gresham, OR · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

Executes on the strategic roadmap for the industrial engineering department to automate and enhance ... With a focus on automotive and industrial end-markets, the company is accelerating change in ...

Showing results 21-40

Automotive Engineering information

See Oregon salary details

$17

$27

$47

How much do automotive engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineering in Oregon is $27.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $30.48 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 Oregon? For Automotive Engineering jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineering jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineering jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Automotive Engineering jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Automotive Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineering job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,975 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Test Engineering Technician

Panthalassa

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

About the Company
Panthalassa is a renewable energy and ocean technology company committed to rapidly developing and deploying technologies that will ensure a sustainable future for Earth by unlocking the vast energy potential of its oceans. Our mission is to capture civilizational levels of ultra-low-cost renewable energy for applications including computing and affordable renewable fuels delivered to shore.
We are headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and operate as a public benefit corporation backed by leading venture capitalists, philanthropic investors, and university endowments. Our team includes individuals with experience at SpaceX, Tesla, Apple, Blue Origin, the U.S. military, and leading research universities. We operate as an idea meritocracy-where the best ideas win-and we're building the most capable engineering and operations team on the planet.
About the Job
We are seeking a Test Engineering Technician to join our cross-functional Test Engineering team as its first dedicated technician, reporting to the Engineering Manager for Test Engineering. You will take primary responsibility for the physical operation, maintenance, and upgrade of our existing large-scale test facilities, as well as helping build new test systems, with an emphasis on mechanical systems (roughly 3/4 of the role) and supporting electrical/instrumentation work (roughly 1/4 of the role).
This is a hands-on role in a climate-controlled, well-lit shop and lab environment. You'll keep test rigs running reliably between campaigns, support the mechanical and electrical engineers who design and run the tests, and, once trained, work at the operator's console. You'll work closely with the Turbogenerator Development, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Node Integration & Test teams.
Responsibilities
  • Perform physical operation, maintenance, and upgrades on existing test rigs, and support the build of new test systems.
  • Maintain test infrastructure fluid systems: monitor water quality and compressed air/water piping, pumps, and filters, performing routine preventive maintenance.
  • Maintain inventory of spare parts, tools, and supplies; identify and procure what's needed to keep test operations running.
  • Operate mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) and overhead cranes; work safely at elevation and lift large objects (up to 50 lbs) as part of routine test rig operations.
  • Perform light fabrication tasks in support of test setups, such as drilling and basic use of mills or lathes; interface with our welders and machinists on more complex fabrication needs.
  • Assemble and troubleshoot electrical cables and harnesses; perform basic continuity checks and instrumentation calibration using a digital multimeter and related tools.
  • Apply working knowledge of low-voltage instrumentation concepts in support of test setups.
  • Troubleshoot systems by tracing signals, identifying likely root causes, and methodically eliminating variables through controlled tests.
  • Write and follow test procedures and maintenance documentation for the systems you operate and maintain.
  • Once trained, operate test rigs from the operator's console in support of test campaigns.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment; follow lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) procedures.
  • Support adjacent teams (Turbogenerator Development, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Node Integration & Test) as testing priorities require.
Required Qualifications
  • Hands-on technical background such as an engineering R&D lab, academic research lab, aerospace test facility, aircraft mechanic, capital equipment or automation machinery, automotive mechanic, or industrial maintenance.
  • Prior experience working closely with mechanical or electrical engineering teams.
  • Comfort working on elevated platforms and operating an overhead crane.
  • Familiarity with lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) procedures and a demonstrated commitment to a clean, safe working environment.
  • Basic fabrication skills: drilling, and comfort around mills or lathes.
  • Comfort using common hand and power tools (e.g., impact wrenches, drills, torque wrenches, hand crimpers) and precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers).
  • Basic electrical skills: using a digital multimeter for continuity checks and basic instrumentation calibration, and a conceptual understanding of low-voltage instrumentation.
  • Strong troubleshooting instincts: tracing signals, identifying root causes, and systematically eliminating variables.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, including writing clear test procedures and maintenance documentation.
  • Willingness to be trained as a Non-Qualified Electrical Safety Worker, with the potential to grow into a Qualified Electrical Safety Worker.
Desired Qualifications
  • Soldering experience for cable-building.
  • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and engineering drawings.
  • Experience building or modifying test stands or ground support equipment (GSE), not just maintaining existing rigs.
  • Experience working with pressurized or high-pressure systems.
  • Familiarity with data acquisition (DAQ) systems.

The above qualifications are desired, not required. We encourage you to apply if you are a strong candidate with only some of the desired skills and experience listed.
Growth Opportunities
This role offers growth opportunities, including a path toward becoming a Qualified Electrical Safety Worker and toward broader technical responsibility on the Test Engineering team.
Additional Requirements
  • You may be required to be on your feet for up to 8 hours per day and occasionally lift objects weighing 50 pounds or more.
  • You should be comfortable occasionally working in elevated work areas, including on mobile elevated work platforms, ladders, and platforms, while using appropriate safety equipment.
Compensation and Benefits
If hired for this full-time role, you will receive:
  • Cash compensation of $105,000 - $125,000.
  • Equity in the company. We're all owners and if we're successful, this equity should be far and away the most valuable component of your compensation.
  • A benefits package that helps you take care of yourself and your family, including:
    • Flexible paid time off
    • Health insurance (the company pays 100% of gold level PPO plan for full time employees, their partners, and dependents)
    • Dental insurance (the company pays 100% for full time employees and 100% for their partners and dependents)
    • Vision insurance (the company pays 100% for full time employees, their partners, and dependents)
    • Disability insurance (the company pays 100% for a policy to provide long term financial support if you become disabled)
    • Ability to contribute to tax-advantaged accounts, including 401(k), health FSA, and dependent care FSA
  • Relocation assistance to facilitate your move to Portland (if needed).
Location
This is an onsite position. Our offices, lab, and shop are located in Portland, Oregon.