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Automotive Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

GTM AUTOMOTIVE

Automotive Technician

Brookfield, IL

$25 - $45/hr

Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is required * An associate degree or completion of an automotive service technician training ...

GTM AUTOMOTIVE

Automotive Technician

Brookfield, IL

$25 - $45/hr

Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is required * An associate degree or completion of an automotive service technician training ...

GTM AUTOMOTIVE

Automotive Technician

Brookfield, IL · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is required * An associate degree or completion of an automotive service technician training ...

JAMK INC

Automotive Technician

Carpentersville, IL

$55K - $110K/yr

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

CBAMFL Inc

Automotive Technician

Elgin, IL · On-site

$700 - $1.0K/wk

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

CBAMFL Inc

Automotive Technician

Elgin, IL · On-site

$600 - $1.0K/wk

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

CBAMFL Inc

Automotive Technician

Elgin, IL

$600 - $1.0K/wk

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

JAMK INC

Automotive Technician

Carpentersville, IL

$55K - $110K/yr

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

JAMK INC

Automotive Technician

Des Plaines, IL

$40K - $90K/yr

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

JAMK INC

Automotive Technician

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$40K - $90K/yr

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 Engineering JobsAutomotive Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Automotive Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$27

$46

How much do automotive engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineering in Chicago, IL is $27.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $29.76 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 the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Automotive Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Automotive Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Automotive Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Automotive Engineering job openings:

Automotive Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,531 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Director of Piston Pin Engineering

Amsted Automotive Group

Geneva, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE
Amsted Automotive Group, Piston Pin Business Unit, is looking for a Director of Engineering to provide hands-on leadership driving manufacturing process design, standardization, and continuous improvement. Owns product application engineering, program management, and APQP execution while developing talent, building high-performing teams, and delivering measurable gains in quality and efficiency. Shapes engineering strategy and fosters accountability and operational excellence.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing engineering team; drive accountability and continuous technical excellence.
  • Standardize manufacturing processes across all piston pin facilities to eliminate defects and maximize efficiency.
  • Foster a culture of data-driven problem solving and continuous improvement.
  • Ensure full compliance with internal standards and external requirements (IATF 16949, ISO 9001).
  • Partner with Quality to resolve process nonconformances and implement robust corrective/preventive actions.
  • Own business unit APQP, PPAP, and FMEA processes to ensure product and manufacturing process integrity.
  • Drive process optimization initiatives to improve efficiency, global capacity, reduce cost, and eliminate waste.
  • Champion Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies to increase throughput and reduce variation.
  • Leverage key operating metrics to identify trends, diagnose issues, and drive performance.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies and assess applicability to future operations.
  • Communicate clearly with senior leadership on progress, risks, and strategic opportunities.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO SUCCEED
  • Leadership and team development: Demonstrated ability to build, lead, mentor, and reorganize teams to improve performance
  • Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or a related field required; advanced engineering degree and/or MBA preferred.
  • Automotive engineering experience: 10-15 years of automotive engineering management experience, preferably in cold forming, heat treating, CNC machining, centerless grinding, metals forming, machining, fabrication, or related manufacturing processes.
  • Quality systems and core tools: Experience with AIAG and IATF tools, including implementation in an automotive manufacturing environment.
  • Problem solving and analytics: Strong disciplined critical-thinking skills with an analytical DMAIC approach; experience using statistical process capability methods and tools such as Minitab or other SPC analysis programs.
  • Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.
  • Results orientation: Proven history of driving continuous improvement and financial improvement projects that deliver measurable business impact
  • Leadership and integrity: Highest ethical standards, with strong communication skills and the ability to motivate, lead, and develop individuals to perform at their best.
  • Engineering career progression: Demonstrated career growth in engineering, including experience in manufacturing operations, manufacturing or product design engineering, and/or quality engineering.
  • Continuous improvement and business impact: Proven history of executing continuous improvement projects related to manufacturing cost control, cost of quality, and product/process standardization, with clear ownership of projects that delivered measurable fiscal impact.
  • Team building and performance: Demonstrated ability to build teams that achieve stretch results.
  • Manufacturing process expertise: Familiarity with high-precision metal manufacturing processes such as cold forming, heat treating, CNC machining, centerless grinding, metals forming, machining, or fabrication in a manufacturing environment, not assembly-only operations.
  • Automotive quality systems: Thorough understanding of the automotive business environment and related quality systems, including ISO/TS standards, APQP, DFMEA, PFMEA, and formal corrective action processes.
  • Customer and technical communication: Strong customer communication skills, including the ability to deliver technical presentations in support of process execution and business development.
  • Leadership and travel: Experience managing in a multi-plant business environment and leading teams where English is not the primary language; willingness and ability to travel to all business unit locations, with expected travel of approximately 50% in the first year and 30% in following years.
  • Language capability: Multilingual fluency preferred, specifically Spanish or Italian.

WHAT ELSE YOU'LL NEED TO KNOW
  • This role will require periods of international travel
  • Candidates must be comfortable getting dirty and working in loud environments

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU
We create a supportive environment where employees thrive! With a range of benefits designed to enhance your health, well-being, and financial security, we're here to support you every step of the way. Join us and experience the exceptional perks that make Amsted Automotive a great place to work!
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Prescription Drug Benefits
  • Wellness Reimbursement
  • Telehealth
  • Onsite health screenings
  • Mental health resources
  • Employee Assistance Program that includes counseling and support services for mental health, family support, financial advice, legal guidance, and more

FINANCIAL BENEFITS
  • Competitive Salaries
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • Annual Bonus Opportunity
  • 401k with Company Match
  • Health Savings Account with Company Contribution
  • Life and Disability Insurance

WORK-LIFE BALANCE
  • Parental Leave
  • 14 Annual Company Paid Holidays

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
  • Training Programs
  • Education Expense Reimbursement
  • Career Advancement Opportunities

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
  • Pet Insurance and Discount Program
  • Legal Insurance
  • Employee Discounts
  • Recognition and Rewards
  • Community Involvement
  • Workplace Giving Matching Gift Program

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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