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Automotive Engineering Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Carbon Robotics

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Seattle, WA

$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.

Carbon Robotics

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Seattle, WA

$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.

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 ...

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 · 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 - 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 - 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 ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Seattle, WA

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 - 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 Director

Seattle, WA

$155K - $410K/yr

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

Pwc

Supply Chain Consulting - Relex Manager

Seattle, WA

$99K - $232K/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 Jul 27, 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,901 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Sr. Electrical Engineer

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Carbon Robotics

Seattle, WA

$122K - $159K/yr

Other

Posted 18 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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