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Automotive Manufacturing Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$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+ ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

... engineering organization. What You'll Work On * Precision machined components for automotive and ... Capital equipment and manufacturing automation projects * New product launches and manufacturing ...

Showing results 21-40

Automotive Manufacturing Engineering information

See salary details

$58.5K

$86K

$105K

How much do automotive manufacturing engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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.

Paint Engineer - Automotive Manufacturing

CrossSafety Solutions Inc.

Lexington, KY • On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

Temporary

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Paint Engineer - Automotive Manufacturing
Location: Multiple U.S. Automotive Manufacturing Facilities
Compensation: Competitive hourly rate
Schedule: Overtime may be required based on project demand
Travel: 10-25% domestic & international depending on project
About CrossSafety
CrossSafety provides engineering and technical professionals to support large-scale automotive manufacturing, battery production, and new model launch programs across North America. We partner with industry-leading OEMs to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality project execution.
Our clients seeking support are often looking to fill positions quickly and in multiple locations across the United States. As such we intend on developing a pool of interested and eligible candidates who can be utilized when our clients make their requests.
We are seeking Manufacturing Project Engineers to support various production engineering teams, including battery manufacturing, process engineering, equipment installation, new model development, and paint/vehicle manufacturing systems.
About the Role
Paint Project Engineers support process integrity, equipment readiness, material performance, and ongoing improvement initiatives within high-volume automotive paint departments.
This position is ideal for engineers who excel in fast-paced, hands-on environments and who can manage technical assignments from root-cause investigation through countermeasure implementation. Projects may include new material introductions, circulation system improvements, paint process optimization, equipment refurbishments, or new system installs.
Engineers will work closely with production leaders, maintenance teams, suppliers, robotics specialists, and cross-functional groups to ensure safety, quality, and throughput targets are consistently achieved.
Key Responsibilities
Engineering & Process Development
  • Provide daily process support to maintain vehicle and process integrity
  • Lead quality, material, cost, productivity, safety, and equipment improvement initiatives
  • Lead new material introduction activities to ensure no negative KPI impact
  • Investigate process or equipment concerns using structured problem-solving methodologies
  • Interpret and review paint system drawings, paint circulation schematics, and equipment specifications

Project Management
  • Lead and support change management, including equipment installation or refurbishment projects
  • Develop project proposals, operating plans, strategies, and ringi documents
  • Coordinate cross-department investigations and communicate root cause, countermeasures, and solutions to management
  • Support kaizen activities initiated by production while protecting key KPIs

Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving
  • Conduct root-cause analysis and implement countermeasures
  • Summarize KPIs and support handover to production teams
  • Apply structured problem-solving methodologies (PDCA, 5-Why, DMAIC)

Manufacturing Support
  • Support production issue resolution, equipment efficiency improvements, and quality countermeasures
  • Participate in advanced cleanliness protocols when working in battery or clean-room environments

Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure all engineering work aligns with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards
  • Follow all PPE requirements: steel-toe footwear, safety glasses, protective headwear (and additional PPE as required) provided per site guidelines
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (mechanical, industrial, electrical, manufacturing, chemical, or similar)
  • Experience in an automotive manufacturing environment, specifically within paint operations
  • 2-8+ years of engineering or project management experience in manufacturing
  • Experience supporting capital projects, equipment installation, or production preparation
  • Ability to read and interpret 2D/3D drawings, facility layouts, and equipment documentation
  • Strong problem-solving mindset using structured methods (PDCA, 5-Why, DMAIC, etc.)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Project, Outlook, PowerPoint)
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and shutdown periods based on project needs
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally, if required (vendor trials, supplier visits, training)
  • Must follow all PPE requirements of the site including steel-toe footwear, safety glasses, protective headwear and any additional PPE as required
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or Manufacturing Engineering
  • CAD experience (AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar) including ability to read, interpret, and modify drawings
  • Experience with PLC programming (Ladder Logic) including troubleshooting and making minor programming changes
  • Exposure to equipment installation, commissioning, or paint process upgrades
  • Familiarity with North American manufacturing safety standards
  • Six Sigma, Lean, or related engineering certifications
Why Join CrossSafety
  • Grow your technical and leadership skills alongside an established and expanding professional consulting firm
  • Join a team of over 150 supportive and safety-focused professionals including Industrial Hygienists, Ergonomists, Safety Engineers, Construction Safety Specialists, and industry-leading engineering teams
  • Advance your career by working Fortune 500 companies and in dynamic environments where your leadership truly matters
  • Contribute to high-impact industrial and construction projects across the United States
Equal Opportunity Employer
CrossSafety fosters an inclusive and respectful workplace. Accommodations are available upon request.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.