ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automotive Performance Engineer Jobs in California

Qualcomm

System Performance Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

... Mobile, Compute, Automotive, and IOT. In the role of System Performance Engineer, you will ... collaborate with software, hardware, and architecture teams to optimize power, performance, and ...

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 ...

Qualcomm

System Performance Engineer, Senior

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

... Automotive, IOT, Server and Data Center AI. In the role of System Performance Engineer, you will ... collaborate with software, hardware, and architecture teams to optimize power, performance, and ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomotive Performance Engineer JobsAutomotive Performance Engineer Jobs in California

Automotive Performance Engineer information

See California salary details

$10

$59

$96

How much do automotive performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 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
Brake Performance Engineer

Brake Performance Engineer

ALTEN Technology USA

Foster City, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Brake Performance Engineer

In this role, you will:

  • Develop brake performance and braking comfort
  • Test and develop the harmonious interaction between brake and drivetrain actuators
  • Develop & track metrics and targets for vehicle-level performance
  • Pass down requirements to systems and components
  • Develop and refine testing methodologies to improve accuracy and efficiency
  • Support simulation development to predict vehicle performance
  • Implement innovative technical concepts and solutions that enable optimal brake performance
  • Execute vehicle validation
  • Lead data analysis and issue resolution
  • Monitor fleet performance via dashboards
  • Lead and report on FMVSS-related testing

What you'll need:

  • B.S. or M.S. degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Automotive Engineering and 5-8 years of automotive or related brake development and vehicle testing experience
  • Excellent understanding of hydraulic braking system and/or electro mechanical braking systems including controllers and stability functions
  • Familiarity with vehicle dynamics on different surface conditions
  • Ability to test in vehicle at or near the physical limits of the vehicle
  • Experience in vehicle-level and bench level brake integration
  • Hands-on experience with vehicles, instrumentation, and data acquisition
  • Familiarity with FMVSS related braking tests
  • Willingness to frequently travel within the continental US (within CA, AZ, MI, OH, MN
  • Experience with brake performance tools and software (e.g CANalyzer, INCA, MDA, MATLAB/Simulink, Racelogic Vbox)
  • Experience with ticket systems

Salary Range: $115,000-$130,000/K

The actual salary offered is dependent on various factors including, but not limited to, location, the candidate's combination of job-related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training, and experience 

Apply