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Automotive Performance Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Safety Performance Engineer to lead vehicle safety development for assigned automotive programs. This position will be responsible for defining and achieving safety objectives ...

New

Automotive Technician

Rochester, MI · On-site

$20 - $50/hr

Bonus based on performance * Competitive salary * Dental insurance * Employee discounts * Health insurance * Paid time off * Opportunity for advancement Automotive Technician - Competitive Pay ...

Showing results 21-40

Automotive Performance information

See Michigan salary details

$28.3K

$59.5K

$97.6K

How much do automotive performance jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive performance in Michigan is $59,485.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $72,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is automotive performance?

Automotive performance jobs focus on enhancing, modifying, or tuning vehicles to improve speed, handling, aesthetics, or overall efficiency. Professionals in this field work on tasks like engine tuning, suspension upgrades, exhaust modifications, and installing aftermarket parts to boost a vehicle's performance. These roles can be found in specialty shops, racing teams, or manufacturing companies, and may involve both hands-on mechanical work and technical analysis. People in these jobs need a strong understanding of automotive systems, diagnostic tools, and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in automotive performance?

To excel in Automotive Performance, you need a solid background in automotive mechanics, engine tuning, and vehicle dynamics—often supported by relevant certifications or technical training. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, dynamometers, engine management software, and performance parts is crucial for optimizing vehicle output. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication with clients set top professionals apart. These competencies ensure safe, reliable, and high-performing vehicles while meeting customer expectations in a specialized field.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in automotive performance roles and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in automotive performance often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex mechanical or electronic issues, keeping up with rapidly evolving vehicle technologies, and balancing customer expectations with realistic performance outcomes. Staying current with the latest diagnostic tools and software, actively participating in training sessions, and collaborating with colleagues can help address these challenges. Additionally, clear communication with clients about achievable results and safety considerations is crucial for building trust and ensuring satisfaction.

What is the difference between Automotive Performance vs Automotive Technician?

AspectAutomotive PerformanceAutomotive Technician
Required CredentialsCertifications like ASE Performance or specialized tuning coursesASE Certification, high school diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentPerformance shops, racing teams, custom tuning facilitiesDealerships, repair shops, service centers
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive aftermarket, racing, custom modificationsAutomotive service and repair industry

Automotive Performance specialists focus on enhancing vehicle power, handling, and modifications, often working in racing or custom shops. Automotive Technicians perform routine repairs and maintenance in service centers. While both roles require automotive knowledge, Automotive Performance emphasizes tuning and upgrades, whereas Automotive Technicians focus on diagnostics and repairs.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Automotive Performance jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Automotive Performance job openings:

Infographic showing various Automotive Performance job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,485 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Safety Performance Engineer

Aptino

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Role: Safety Performance Engineer

Location: Auburn Hills, MI – Onsite
Duration: 12 Months

Role Overview:

We are seeking a Safety Performance Engineer to lead vehicle safety development for assigned automotive programs. This position will be responsible for defining and achieving safety objectives through crash safety development, vehicle integration, physical testing, virtual validation, and design improvements from early concept through production launch.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead safety development activities for assigned vehicle programs and support safety target definition and vehicle-level test planning.
  • Develop and execute test strategies supporting regulatory crash requirements and third-party safety ratings.
  • Support impact/crash test script development and identify vehicle or component design features that can improve safety performance.
  • Own safety performance activities throughout the vehicle integration and validation process.
  • Lead cross-functional safety attribute teams, participate in safety technology reviews, and support vehicle program technical requests.
  • Evaluate vehicle and component performance, identify issues, conduct root cause analysis, and drive corrective actions through resolution.
  • Influence vehicle and component designs by providing technical recommendations based on safety and test results.
  • Plan and execute component-level and full-vehicle physical testing, including vehicle build activities, test preparation, instrumentation, execution, and evaluation.
  • Coordinate safety testing activities from concept development through vehicle launch.
  • Work closely with CAE teams to support virtual validation, simulation assessments, and correlation between physical and virtual test results.
  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation, test plans, validation results, issue reports, and corrective-action records.
  • Lead resolution of complex issues involving multiple vehicle engineering disciplines.
  • Collaborate with engineering, CAE, testing, vehicle integration, and program teams to meet safety objectives and development milestones.
  • Support testing and development activities at Chelsea Proving Grounds and travel to the facility as required.
Required Qualifications:
  • Experience in automotive safety engineering, vehicle safety development, or related vehicle engineering.
  • Strong understanding of crash safety, vehicle safety requirements, regulatory standards, and third-party crash ratings.
  • Hands-on experience with component and full-vehicle testing, test planning, vehicle builds, and test execution.
  • Knowledge of CAE, crash simulation, and virtual validation processes.
  • Experience with vehicle issue investigation, root cause analysis, and corrective-action development.
  • Ability to influence engineering designs and lead technical problem-solving across multiple disciplines.
  • Strong technical, analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work onsite in Auburn Hills, MI and travel to Chelsea Proving Grounds when required.