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Automotive Manufacturing Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MI

$105K - $130K/yr

Five (5) years of experience in automotive manufacturing or equivalent. * Minimum three (3) years proven experience managing / leading both Engineering and Maintenance Personnel.

Manufacturing Engineer

Pulaski, TN · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Minimum of 2-5 years of Manufacturing Engineering experience in an automotive manufacturing environment. * Experience supporting plastic injection molding operations. * Experience working for a Tier ...

$63K - $81K/yr

Key Responsibilities Engineering & Process Development * Provide daily process support to maintain ... Experience in an automotive manufacturing environment, specifically within paint operations * 2-8+ ...

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Automotive Manufacturing Engineering information

See salary details

$58.5K

$86K

$105K

How much do automotive manufacturing engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive manufacturing engineering in the United States is $86,041.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $96,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automotive Manufacturing Engineering vs Automotive Design Engineering?

AspectAutomotive Manufacturing EngineeringAutomotive Design Engineering
Primary FocusDeveloping and improving manufacturing processes, assembly lines, and production efficiencyCreating vehicle concepts, designing parts, and developing new vehicle models
Required SkillsProcess optimization, manufacturing systems, CAD/CAM, quality controlCAD software, creative design, vehicle dynamics, prototyping
Work EnvironmentFactories, production plants, engineering labsDesign studios, R&D departments, CAD workstations
Common CertificationsSix Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Engineering degreesMechanical Engineering, Automotive Design certifications

Automotive Manufacturing Engineering focuses on streamlining production processes and ensuring efficient vehicle assembly, while Automotive Design Engineering emphasizes creating innovative vehicle designs and concepts. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in their daily tasks and work environments.

What is automotive manufacturing engineering?

Automotive manufacturing engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on designing, developing, and optimizing the processes and machinery used to produce vehicles and their components. Professionals in this area work to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and safety while reducing costs and environmental impact. They collaborate with design, production, and quality teams to ensure that vehicles are manufactured according to industry standards and customer expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as an Automotive Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or industrial engineering, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of manufacturing processes, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC programming, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing methodologies, and industry certifications like EIT or PE are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and project management skills help professionals excel in cross-functional environments and drive continuous improvement. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring efficient production, maintaining quality standards, and implementing innovative solutions in a highly competitive industry.

What do automotive manufacturing engineers do?

Automotive manufacturing engineers design, develop, and improve production processes for vehicle assembly and component manufacturing. They analyze workflows, select appropriate machinery, and implement quality control measures to ensure efficient and safe production. Proficiency in CAD software, process optimization, and understanding of safety standards are essential in this role.

What are some typical challenges faced by automotive manufacturing engineers during production ramp-up phases?

Automotive Manufacturing Engineers often encounter challenges during production ramp-up, such as ensuring new equipment operates reliably, minimizing process bottlenecks, and troubleshooting unexpected quality issues. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—like design, quality assurance, and supply chain—is essential to address these challenges efficiently. Engineers must also balance maintaining production timelines with implementing process improvements, all while adhering to strict safety and quality standards. Successfully navigating these challenges helps ensure a smooth transition from prototype to high-volume manufacturing.
More about Automotive Manufacturing Engineering jobs
Infographic showing various Automotive Manufacturing Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,041 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Manufacturing Manager - Automotive Production & Manufacturing Engineering

LaBine and Associates

Greenville, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

We Regularly Recruit Manufacturing Managers for Leading Automotive Manufacturers
Our executive partner works with a large network of automotive manufacturers throughout the region, including OEMs, Tier 1, and Tier 2 suppliers. Because of our ongoing client relationships, we are consistently recruiting experienced Manufacturing Managers and Manufacturing Engineers for full-time leadership opportunities.
If your background matches this skill set, we encourage you to proactively connect with our recruiting team today. Even if you are not actively searching, we'd like to discuss current and upcoming opportunities that align with your experience and career goals.
Typical Responsibilities
Manufacturing Managers are responsible for leading production engineering initiatives while improving manufacturing processes, product quality, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement efforts. Typical responsibilities include:
  • Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Control Plans, and manufacturing documentation supporting IATF 16949/TS16949 and quality system compliance.
  • Lead new product introductions by developing manufacturing processes, equipment specifications, tooling, and production methods.
  • Prepare cost justifications and manufacturing plans for new product launches.
  • Partner with engineering, quality, maintenance, and production teams to ensure successful product launches.
  • Provide technical leadership for assigned manufacturing operations and product lines.
  • Troubleshoot manufacturing, quality, and process issues using structured problem-solving techniques.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing scrap, waste, downtime, and manufacturing costs.
  • Support capital equipment implementation, process optimization, and operational excellence initiatives.
  • Lead manufacturing teams while promoting safety, quality, productivity, and employee engagement.

What Our Clients Typically Look For
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline.
  • 3+ years of manufacturing engineering or manufacturing management experience.
  • Experience working within ISO, IATF 16949, or similar automotive quality systems.
  • Project management experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Proven ability to solve complex manufacturing and quality issues.
  • Experience implementing process improvements and lean manufacturing initiatives.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Automotive manufacturing experience with an OEM, Tier 1, or Tier 2 supplier.
  • Experience supporting high-volume production environments.
  • Root Cause Analysis training (Shainin, Six Sigma, 8D, DMAIC, or similar methodologies).
  • Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, or Operational Excellence experience.

Industries We Support
Our clients manufacture a wide variety of automotive components, including precision-machined products, fuel systems, powertrain components, electronics, injection molding, metal fabrication, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Ready for Your Next Opportunity?
If you're an experienced Manufacturing Manager, Manufacturing Engineer, Production Engineering Leader, or Continuous Improvement professional, we'd like to hear from you.
Our recruiters are continually working with automotive manufacturers seeking talented leaders to improve production performance, launch new products, and drive operational excellence.
Submit your resume today and let our team keep you informed of current and future opportunities that match your expertise.

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About LaBine and Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

LaBine and Associates is a full service talent acquisition firm specializing in executive search for a myriad of industries. Through our partnerships with experienced associates, we can also provide staffing support, expert consultants, and interim executives for your company’s needs. We have deep industry knowledge with understanding in multiple industries. Our specialists include experts in banking/finance, HR/Legal, Technology, Health Care, Life Sciences, Engineering, Energy, Supply Chain, Mining, Agribusiness and manufacturing.

Industry

Professional, scientific, and technical services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Mateo, CA, US

Year founded

2013

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