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Automotive Performance Engineer Jobs in California

NVH Engineer I

Irvine, CA ยท Hybrid

$78K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

NVH Engineer I * Evaluate, Test and Develop the Total Vehicle performance / Noise and Vibration ... the automotive industry * Coursework in Vehicle Dynamics, Signal Analysis, Noise & Vibrations ...

SERVICE TECHNICIAN

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $40/hr

... high performance solutions on Audi and Volkswagen automobiles. As part of our plan to expand our ... engineering principles. * Flexible and team work oriented attitude. Must work well with other in a ...

Development Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA ยท On-site

$1.7K - $2.3K/wk

... high-performance automotive applications. Position Summary The Development Engineer will be ... responsible for creating and executing development plans for new concepts, components, and systems.

Development Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA ยท On-site

$1.7K - $2.3K/wk

... high-performance automotive applications. Position Summary The Development Engineer will be ... responsible for creating and executing development plans for new concepts, components, and systems.

Powertrain Performance Test Engineer

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Powertrain Performance Test Engineer As a powertrain performance test engineer you will be part of ... the automotive industry preferred * Engineering internship experience * Good understanding of ...

Powertrain Performance Test Engineer

Chino, CA ยท Hybrid

$70K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Powertrain Performance Test Engineer As a powertrain performance test engineer you will be part of ... the automotive industry preferred * Engineering internship experience * Good understanding of ...

Materials Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA ยท On-site

$38 - $55/hr

This is an exciting opportunity for an engineering professional who is passionate about advanced materials, metallurgical analysis, and high-performance automotive applications. The successful ...

This is an exciting opportunity for an engineering professional who is passionate about advanced materials, metallurgical analysis, and high-performance automotive applications. The successful ...

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$178K - $218K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits. At ... Work along with a team of performance engineers to research, model and develop architecture / micro ...

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$158K - $194K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits. At ... Work along with a team of performance engineers to research, model and develop architecture / micro ...

Core Performance Architect

Berkeley, CA ยท On-site

$254K - $310K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits. At ... Guide a team of performance engineers to research, model and develop architecture / micro ...

Core Performance Architect

Berkeley, CA ยท On-site

$158K - $194K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits. At ... Work along with a team of performance engineers to research, model and develop architecture / micro ...

Core Performance Architect

Berkeley, CA ยท On-site

$178K - $218K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits. At ... Work along with a team of performance engineers to research, model and develop architecture / micro ...

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$178K - $218K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits. At ... Work along with a team of performance engineers to research, model and develop architecture / micro ...

Showing results 41-60

Automotive Performance Engineer information

See California salary details

$10

$59

$96

How much do automotive performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 as an automotive performance engineer?

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 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:

Infographic showing various Automotive Performance Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,381 per year, or $59.3 per hour.

$78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

NVH Engineer I
  • Evaluate, Test and Develop the Total Vehicle performance / Noise and Vibration performance / Ride & Handling performance of North American Market Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles as a member of one of the Vehicle Test & Development groups.
  • The groups are in charge of total vehicle performance, noise and vibration performance, or ride & handling test and development activities in support of prototype and pilot vehicle development to assure that development vehicle performance meets or exceeds customers' expectations in all road and environmental conditions in North America.
  • The groups' main function of evaluation, testing, and developing the performance of HMG vehicles aligns with our corporate goal of delivering the best vehicles for the North American customer through regional technical leadership and global collaboration.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Evaluate, Test and Develop the Total Vehicle performance / Noise and Vibration performance / Ride & Handling performance of North American Market Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles as a member of one of the Vehicle Test & Development groups.
  • Perform subjective evaluations & objective testing, investigate problem root causes, develop appropriate countermeasures, and summarize findings in reports from the perspective of Total Vehicle performance, NVH and Wind Noise, or Ride and Handling.
  • Evaluate test vehicle performance with the North American Customer perspective in mind.
  • Develop and execute test plans, coordinate test vehicles, and manage supplier activities.
  • Plan, organize, and execute ride-and-drive activities for prototype and pilot Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles.
  • Benchmark competitor vehicle performance and the establishment of development direction and performance targets.
  • Analyze customer feedback results from internal and external media sources (J.D. Power IQS, Consumer Reports, social media, traditional media, and internal & external customer clinics).
  • Utilize experimental data acquisition systems and analysis software (Matlab, LMS Test Lab, HEAD Acoustics ArtemiS, ...).
  • Conduct experimental Noise, Vibration and Aeroacoustic investigations including Sound Quality Analysis, Transfer Path Analysis, and Modal Analysis in support of prototype and pilot vehicle development.
  • Development the ride and handling performance through tire testing, spring & bar selection, damper tuning, electric steering calibration, and countermeasure development of prototype vehicles at various stages of development.
  • Interface regularly with Engineering Design departments and with counterparts in our R&D Headquarters in Korea.
  • Support vehicle testing activities at the Hyundai California Proving Ground.
  • Support the identification and development of new technologies, strategies, and methods for improving the performance of current and future Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles.
  • Create and present clear & concise project status and technical reports.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace, or a related field ofย 
  • 0-3+ years of relevant engineering experience in the automotive industry
  • Coursework in Vehicle Dynamics, Signal Analysis, Noise & Vibrations Analysis, Controls, and Human Factors, a plus
  • Good understanding of vehicle dynamics, chassis systems, and powertrain systems
  • Experienced with experimental test data acquisition systems and analysis software including Matlab, LMS Test.Lab, HEAD Acoustics ArtemiS
  • Excellent computer skills
  • Knowledgeable with CAE analysis
  • Experience in root cause analysis and problem-solving methods
  • Good written communication and presentation skills
  • Flexibility in handling multiple projects and changing priorities
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams
  • Valid Driver's License and satisfactory driving record
WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU
  • Zero-dollar Employee Premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for You and Your Family
  • 100% Employer-paid Disability and Life Insurance
  • Hybrid Work Schedule
  • Generous Paid Time Off, Including Vacation, Sick, and Abundant Holidays
  • Competitive Salaries
    • Range of Position: $70,00 ~ $78,000/Year
  • A Global Environment that Fosters Diversity
  • Retirement Savings and Planning Benefits
  • Access to Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accountsย 
  • Flexible Work Hours
OTHER DETAILS

Physical Demands, Work Environment, Travel Expectations:

  • Able to work in a culturally diverse team environment and in harsh climate conditions (Winter -40F, Summer +120F, altitude up to 14,000 ft)
  • Travel up to 35%, domestically and internationally to support product development and testing

Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is an Equal Opportunity Employer included Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.