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Automotive Engineering Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Design Engineering, or a related field. * 3-5+ years of engineering experience in automotive engineering, consumer product ...

Automotive Technician

Buda, TX · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

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

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

Automotive Technician

Buda, TX · On-site

$17 - $20/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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Automotive Engineering information

See Texas salary details

$15

$24

$41

How much do automotive engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineering in Texas is $24.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.88 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.

Is earning $70,000 out of college with an engineering degree good?

For an entry-level automotive engineer, a salary of $70,000 is generally considered competitive and above the national average, reflecting the demand for skills in design, testing, and manufacturing. Factors such as location, company size, and specialization can influence starting salaries, and additional certifications or internships can enhance earning potential.

What type of work do automotive engineers do?

Automotive engineers design, develop, and test vehicles and vehicle components, focusing on improving safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. They work with tools like CAD software, conduct simulations, and collaborate with manufacturing teams to bring new automotive technologies to market.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

In automotive engineering, senior engineers, engineering managers, and specialized roles such as vehicle development directors can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often correlates with working in large companies, in-demand expertise, or in roles involving project management and innovation.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior automotive engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand sectors like electric vehicles or autonomous systems. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires advanced degrees and a strong track record of innovation and project management.

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 the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineering jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Automotive Engineering jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Engineering jobs in Texas? For Automotive Engineering jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineering jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineering jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Automotive Engineering jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Automotive Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineering job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,086 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Snr. Automotive Vehicle Technician

Snr. Automotive Vehicle Technician

TRUCKING PEOPLE

Abilene, TX • On-site

$29 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Location
Austin, TX, United States
Work environment
In-person
Expected pay
29.00 - 35.00 USD Per Hour
Schedule
Full-time (usually 30+ hours/week)
Assignment length
Contract
Opportunity end date
04/27/2026
Job Description:
In this role, you’ll apply your skills across mechanical, electrical, and field operations while guiding technicians and partnering closely with engineering teams. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring systems are built to specification, issues are resolved efficiently, and testing and deployment activities run smoothly.
The ideal candidate is a highly capable technician who enjoys hands-on work, takes ownership of complex problems, and elevates the team through leadership and knowledge sharing.
As a Senior Automotive Vehicle (AV) Technician, you'll:
  • Lead the installation and integration of complex hardware systems, including sensors, compute modules, wiring harnesses, and electronic components.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve advanced mechanical, electrical, and system-integration issues across vehicle and robotic platforms.
  • Oversee preventative maintenance, retrofits, and system upgrades to ensure reliability and uptime.
  • Provide on-site technical leadership during field deployments and testing, including issue diagnosis and corrective action.
  • Partner with engineering, operations, and quality teams to deliver field feedback and improve hardware designs and test processes.
  • Maintain and review technical documentation, manage tools and inventory, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
  • Mentor, train, and support junior technicians by sharing best practices and technical expertise.
Ideal candidate profile
  • Background with electric vehicles, autonomous systems, or advanced sensor and compute installations. Experience with soldering, crimping, and prototyping. Familiarity with automotive test operations, data collection, or calibration workflows.
Daily tasks
  • Help ensure quality installation and integration of complex hardware systems including sensors, computing modules, wiring harnesses, and electronic components.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve advanced mechanical, electrical, and software-interfacing issues on robotic systems and vehicle platforms.
  • Oversee preventative maintenance programs, retrofits, and system upgrades to ensure reliability and uptime.
  • Support field deployments and testing operations with on-site technical leadership, issue diagnosis, and corrective actions. Partner with cross-functional teams—including engineering, operations, and QA—to provide feedback from the field and improve hardware designs and test processes. Help organize and review documentation, manage tooling and inventory, and ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
  • Support the skill development of other technicians by sharing best practices and technical insights. Mentor and train junior technicians to elevate team capability and consistency.
Required skills
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in automotive service, robotics integration, or related mechatronics fields.
  • Deep proficiency with mechanical and electrical systems, diagnostic equipment, and schematics. Skilled in working with AC/DC systems, sensors, connectors, and control modules.
  • Advanced troubleshooting ability and aptitude for resolving complex system-level issues. Proven experience leading or training other technicians in a fast-paced environment.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally for field support.
  • Comfortable lifting 50 lbs and working in warehouse or outdoor field settings.
Business Driver of Role
In this role, you will lead the build and assembly of advanced modified vehicle systems. This senior role combines great technical skills with training and diagnostic responsibilities, supporting the integration of cutting-edge automation technologies in real-world environments. As a Senior AV Technician, you’ll apply your expertise across mechanical, electrical, and field operations while guiding Technicians and collaborating directly with engineering teams. You’ll play a key role in ensuring systems are built to spec, issues are resolved efficiently, and testing and deployment run smoothly.
Work schedule
Shift: 9 - 5 M-F
Interview process
1 phone screen 1 onsite

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About Trucking People

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trucking People, based in Houston, TX, US, operates within the transportation and logistics industry. The company primarily focuses on providing reliable trucking services across the country. Though the exact date of establishment is not explicitly mentioned, Trucking People has managed to secure a reputable position within the industry. The company's mission is to facilitate smooth logistics for businesses by ensuring the timely and safe delivery of goods.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

2017