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Automotive Engineering Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Carbon Robotics

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$122K - $159K/yr

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for Success: * 3-8 years experience in electrical engineering, specifically focusing on industrial or automotive power distribution, panel design, and automation.

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Aquent

Systems Support Engineer

Tacoma, WA · On-site +1

$55 - $58/hr

Aug 3, 2026 Aquent is proud to partner with a pioneering leader in advanced vehicle technology, an organization dedicated to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and shaping the future of ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Auburn, WA

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Seattle, WA

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Washington

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Seattle, WA

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Washington

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Seattle, WA

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Washington

Auburn, WA

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and ...

Pwc

Supply Chain Consulting - Relex Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$99K - $232K/yr

Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Engineering Physics, Industrial and Operations ...

Pwc

Supply Chain Consulting - Relex Sr. Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$124K - $280K/yr

Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Engineering Physics, Industrial and Operations ...

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All JobsAutomotive Engineering JobsAutomotive Engineering Jobs in Kent, WA

Automotive Engineering information

See Kent, WA salary details

$18

$29

$50

How much do automotive engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineering in Kent, WA is $29.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $32.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Are automotive engineers in demand?

Automotive engineering is a growing field due to advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and alternative fuels. Skilled automotive engineers with expertise in CAD, systems integration, and vehicle design are increasingly sought after by manufacturers and suppliers worldwide.

What can you do with automotive engineering?

Automotive engineering involves designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing vehicles and their systems, including engines, electronics, and safety features. Professionals in this field work in research and development, quality assurance, and production environments, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of physics and materials science.

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Engineering jobs in Kent, WA?

For Automotive Engineering jobs in Kent, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineering jobs in Kent, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineering jobs in Kent, WA are:

What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Automotive Engineering jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA with the most Automotive Engineering job openings:

Automotive Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineering job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,901 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Carbon Robotics

Seattle, WA • On-site

$122K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

As Sr. Electrical Engineer at Carbon Robotics, you will design and optimize the robust electrical power distribution and control systems architectures that are the heart of our products. You will create everything from electrical cabinet layouts to reliable 240VAC and low-voltage power distribution systems capable of enduring harsh agricultural environments. From developing robust architectures to deep vendor engagement to validating performance in harsh farm environments, you'll do whatever it takes - including going to the farm - to ensure our customers have reliable and safe products.

What you'll do:

  • Design and architect comprehensive power distribution systems, managing both 240VAC single/three-phase power and low-voltage DC distribution for complex robotic machinery.
  • Lead the full lifecycle of electrical cabinet design, including component layout, thermal management, enclosure selection, and wire harness schematics.
  • Integrate and program Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), automotive and industrial IO modules, and safety relays to automate and protect machine subsystems.
  • Select and qualify critical electrical components such as circuit breakers, contactors, power supplies, transformers, and industrial control panel hardware.
  • Optimize electrical designs for EMI/EMC compliance, electrical safety standards (e.g., UL 508A, NFPA 79, SAE J1128), and reliability in the field.
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical and software teams to define spatial constraints inside enclosures and establish seamless PLC-to-software communication interfaces.
  • Support assembly technicians and manufacturing partners through initial panel build-outs, system bring-up, testing, and troubleshooting.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for Success:

  • 3-8 years experience in electrical engineering, specifically focusing on industrial or automotive power distribution, panel design, and automation. 
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD for wiring design as well as analytical design optimization tools
  • Experience with SolidWorks
  • Hands-on experience with PLC programming and industrial and automotive networking protocols (e.g., Modbus, EtherCAT, CANbus)
  • Strong foundational knowledge of AC/DC power, including 240VAC systems, three-phase power balancing, and low-voltage (12V/24VDC) control circuits
  • Previous experience designing for challenging environments (agricultural, automotive, heavy equipment, or aerospace) where vibration, extreme temperatures, dust, and moisture are constant factors
  • Proficiency in automotive wiring standards, connector systems, and harness design for high-power applications
  • Deep understanding of circuit protection devices (contactors, fuses, solid state power controls/relays) for vehicle applications
  • Willingness to travel ~10-20% of the time to support products in the production & field environments with a demonstrated ability to work directly with internal and external stakeholders/customers
  • BS+ in Electrical Engineering with focus on power systems, automotive engineering, or related field


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