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Automotive Performance Engineer Jobs in California

Qualcomm

GPU Performance Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

We are looking for passionate GPU performance modeling engineers that will help shape the ... automotive solutions. This role will be available across multiple locations - San Diego, Santa ...

Qualcomm

SOC Systems Performance Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$99K - $149K/yr

... automotive, Compute and other product categories. We have an exciting and dynamic technical ... Engineer market-leading SoC products with best-in-class performance * Lead and conduct performance ...

SiFive

Performance Model Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

... automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits. At ... The performance modelers will involve in all steps of architecting, designing and correlating ...

Banks Power

Mechanical Design Engineer

Azusa, CA

$77K - $104K/yr

We are seeking an aspiring Mechanical Design Engineer to help us design and develop high-performance automotive products and systems using CAD, CFD, FEA tools. You will manage design projects from ...

Banks Power

CAD Technician

Azusa, CA

Interest in automotive performance is a big plus The Environment * Fast-moving, hands-on, no-nonsense, and fun * Real engineers, real products, real growth * A team of people who actually care about ...

Nuro

Software Engineer, Performance

Mountain View, CA

$160K - $240K/yr

... automotive-grade hardware. Nuro licenses its core technology, the Nuro Driver, to support a wide ... About the Role We are looking for talented engineers to join our Performance team to optimize the ...

Banks Power

CAD Technician

Azusa, CA

Interest in automotive performance is a big plus The Environment * Fast-moving, hands-on, no-nonsense, and fun * Real engineers, real products, real growth * A team of people who actually care about ...

Nuro

Software Engineer, Performance

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

... AI with automotive-grade hardware. Nuro licenses its core technology, the Nuro Driver™, to ... About the Role We are looking for talented engineers to join our Performance team to optimize the ...

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Automotive Performance Engineer information

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$10

$59

$96

How much do automotive performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive performance engineer in California is $59.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.65 and $67.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Performance Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, with expertise in vehicle dynamics, engine tuning, and data analysis. Familiarity with tools such as dynamometers, simulation software (like MATLAB or Simulink), and industry certifications such as ASE or similar are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, clear communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure that performance engineers can optimize vehicle systems effectively, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and drive innovation in a competitive automotive environment.

What does an Automotive Performance Engineer do?

An Automotive Performance Engineer focuses on optimizing vehicle performance, including engine power, handling, aerodynamics, and fuel efficiency. They conduct tests, analyze data, and collaborate with design teams to enhance speed, durability, and overall driving experience. Their work involves using simulation tools, dynamometers, and real-world testing to fine-tune components. These engineers often work in motorsports, high-performance vehicle manufacturing, or research and development.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Automotive Performance Engineer?

Automotive Performance Engineers typically spend their days conducting vehicle tests, analyzing performance data, and developing strategies to enhance powertrain, suspension, and overall vehicle performance. They collaborate closely with design, testing, and manufacturing teams to implement improvements and troubleshoot issues. The role also involves using simulation software and diagnostic tools to validate engineering changes and ensure compliance with safety or emissions standards. This mix of hands-on testing, data analysis, and teamwork makes the job dynamic and rewarding for those passionate about automotive innovation.

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Performance Engineer jobs in California? For Automotive Performance Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Performance Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Performance Engineer jobs in California are:
Automotive Performance Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Performance Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, and 83% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $123,381 per year, or $59.3 per hour.
Senior System Software Engineer, Automotive Performance

Senior System Software Engineer, Automotive Performance

NVIDIA

Santa Clara, CA

$142K - $188K/yr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It’s a distinctive heritage of innovation fueled by outstanding technology—and remarkable people. Today, we’re harnessing the boundless possibilities of AI to build the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what’s never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world’s best talent. As an NVIDIAN, you’ll engage in a varied, nurturing atmosphere where all individuals are driven to deliver their finest work. Join our team and discover how you can build a meaningful impact on the world.

Join NVIDIA, an established leader in computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for over 25 years. We are embarking on a new era fueled by AI. We are in search of a remarkable Automotive Performance Senior Software Engineer to join our energetic team. You will participate in groundbreaking projects that drive technology and innovation forward. Our team values cooperation, and your work will impact leading performance solutions in the automotive industry.

What you'll be doing:

  • Play a key role in optimizing system software for Nvidia automotive performance platforms with Safe RTOS.

  • Collaborate closely with Hardware Architecture, DriveOS, Power, and Test teams to track key boot & runtime performance benchmarks.

  • Ensure the software and hardware meet projected targets by closely supervising micro benchmarks and industry-standard benchmarks across IPs.

  • Contribute to developing innovative features in automotive profiling tools with AI assistance.

  • Benchmark the hypervisor and ensure the lowest overhead on ARM systems.

  • Collaborate with the ADAS/AV team in optimizing the next-gen stack from NVIDIA on Tegra platforms.

What we need to see:

  • Master’s degree in computer science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

  • A minimum of 12 years of proven experience in systems or software performance.

  • Solid C/C++ programming abilities accompanied by previous experience in the automotive sector.

  • Proficiency in Linux and QNX; Knowledge of Android is advantageous but not mandatory.

  • Solid understanding of Benchmarking, boot time optimization, compiler optimizations and runtime performance improvements.

  • Knowledge of hypervisors, virtualization, and overhead analysis.

  • Experience working with profiling utilities to improve system software efficiency.

  • AI/ML experience is highly desirable.

Widely considered to be one of the technology world’s most desirable employers, NVIDIA offers highly competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. As you plan your future, see what we can offer to you and your family www.nvidiabenefits.com/

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 224,000 USD - 356,500 USD for Level 5, and 272,000 USD - 431,250 USD for Level 6.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits (https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/benefits/) .

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until May 22, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993

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