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Automotive Hardware Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Hardware Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... automotive enthusiasts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hardware design and ... engineers Develop detailed design specifications, schematics, and documentation Work with suppliers ...

Staff Hardware Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... automotive enthusiasts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hardware design and ... to fellow hardware engineers • Develop detailed design specifications, schematics, and ...

Hardware Staff Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $173K/yr

Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Hardware Engineering General Summary: Role Summary The Staff ... Lead board-level hardware design for assigned automotive subsystems or reference designs, including ...

HP Tuners is currently seeking a full-time Senior Hardware Engineer to join our team in Buffalo ... automotive enthusiasts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hardware design and ...

Description HP Tuners is currently seeking a full-time Senior Hardware Engineer to join our team in ... automotive enthusiasts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hardware design and ...

This exciting position will support the development and production of automotive embedded ... engineering personnel. * Prepare various hardware design documents as necessary. * Responsible for ...

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Automotive Hardware Engineer information

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$79.5K

$100K

$118K

How much do automotive hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive hardware engineer in the United States is $99,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Automotive Hardware Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Hardware Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electronics, circuit design, and mechanical integration, usually supported by a degree in electrical or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD tools, PCB design software, and industry standards such as ISO 26262 is typically expected, along with relevant certifications. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and addressing complex technical challenges. Mastering these abilities enables engineers to develop safe, reliable, and innovative automotive hardware solutions that meet evolving industry regulations and consumer demands.

What does an Automotive Hardware Engineer do?

An Automotive Hardware Engineer designs, develops, and tests electronic and electrical components in vehicles, such as sensors, control units, and communication systems. They work on circuit design, PCB layout, and integration of hardware with software to ensure vehicle functionality and safety. Their role also involves validating hardware components through simulations and physical testing. They collaborate with software engineers, mechanical engineers, and suppliers to optimize performance and reliability.

What are some typical projects or daily tasks for an Automotive Hardware Engineer?

As an Automotive Hardware Engineer, your daily tasks often include designing and testing electronic components or systems such as control modules, sensors, or infotainment hardware. You’ll collaborate closely with software engineers, mechanical designers, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration of hardware into vehicles. Troubleshooting hardware prototypes, conducting performance validation, and preparing technical documentation are also common responsibilities. This role provides opportunities to work on innovative automotive technologies and see your designs directly impact vehicle performance and safety.

More about Automotive Hardware Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Hardware Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Hardware Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Hardware Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Automotive Hardware Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Hardware Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Automotive Hardware Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,999 per year, or $48.1 per hour.
Staff Hardware Engineer

Staff Hardware Engineer

HP Tuners LLC

Buffalo Grove, IL • On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description

HP Tuners is currently seeking a full-time Staff Hardware Engineer to join our team in Buffalo Grove, IL.  At HP Tuners, we develop hardware and software products to suite the aftermarket needs of automotive enthusiasts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hardware design and development, with a proven track record of taking projects from concept to production. This role requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams.


This is an on-site position and requires the candidate to work in our Buffalo Grove, IL office (relocation assistance is available).


Essential Duties and Responsibilities


Develop innovative full system embedded architecture for new products

Lead the design and development of hardware projects from concept through production

Take into consideration and balance functional requirements, maintainability, reusability, scalability, extensibility and cost effectiveness

Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, mechanical, and sourcing to ensure seamless integration of hardware solutions

Perform schematic entry and layout using Altium Designer

Prepare PCB projects for manufacturing

Prototype and test new hardware designs

Debug and validate electronic circuits

Participate in the board bring-up process by working side-by-side with the firmware team

Being able to write proof of concept firmware applications is a plus

Mentor and provide technical guidance to fellow hardware engineers

Develop detailed design specifications, schematics, and documentation

Work with suppliers to source components and finished assemblies

Manage project requirements and deadlines. Work with the Project Management team on creating and maintaining project schedules

Develop and breakdown functional requirements into well-defined tasks

Perform peer design reviews

Provide expert technical input into product planning and concepts

Further knowledge of new development processes in the field and leverage new advancements when appropriate

Conduct technical research and studies into new technologies, providing recommendations to engineering management

Requirements

Skills and Qualifications

10+ years of hands-on experience and a proven track record in hardware development

10+ years of PCB design experience using ECAD tools (Altium Designer or similar)

5+ years of hands-on PCB layout experience; Of those, at least 3 years of hands-on experience within the last 10

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or equivalent experience

Proven track record of technical leadership

Demonstration of a successful track record in managing complex problems and successfully providing innovative solutions

Extensive circuit prototyping experience 

Circuit testing and debugging skills

Circuit simulation experience

Experience with advanced PCB design skills such as Impedance Control and Length Matching

Friendly, flexible, and a team player

Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to work autonomously while meeting required deadlines

Good problem-solving skills

Open-minded, positive approach to problem solving and working with others

Proven experience working in a fast-paced environment to agreed upon timelines

Demonstration of excellent judgment and decision making abilities


Relevant Experience 


Experience designing microcontroller/microprocessor-based systems

Experience taking a project from concept all the way to production

Ability to diagnose issues that may span hardware, firmware and system software

Experience with instrumentation like oscilloscopes, logic/protocol analyzers for debugging embedded systems at HW level

Experience with automotive OBD-II On-Board Diagnostics and Vehicle Communication protocols is a plus


Physical Requirements


Working Conditions: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and work at a desk or workbench for prolonged periods of time.


Please Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of HP Tuners.


At HP Tuners LLC, we understand that compensation plays a key role when considering a new opportunity. We are dedicated to ensuring fair pay for all employees and continually work towards greater transparency in our compensation practices. The estimated base salary range for this position is $140,000 - 170,000, with actual pay determined including factors such as location, skills, experience, and other relevant considerations. This position also qualifies for a discretionary bonus and a complete benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage, paid time off (PTO), and a 401(k) program with employer matching.


HP Tuners LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, or any other protected class. HP Tuners LLC does not use AI (Artificial Intelligence) to make decisions in the hiring process. If AI (Artificial Intelligence) is utilized, HP Tuners LLC will include a disclaimer in the relevant job posting.


NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES


Please  note that we do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Services  Agreement, we will not consider, or agree to, payment of any referral   compensation or recruiter fee. In the event that a recruiter or agency  submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, we  explicitly reserve the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s)   without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency.