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Automotive Performance Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Automotive Sales

Ortonville, MI · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

... performance. Guide customers through the financing and purchasing process with transparency and ... Previous automotive sales experience is a plus, but not required. A genuine passion for cars and ...

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Experienced Automotive Technician - Be the Power Behind the Performance! Ira, MI | Full-Time | No Weekends | Competitive Flat Rate Pay + Bonus Are you a Master-level Automotive Technician ready to ...

Be Seen First

Experienced Automotive Technician - Be the Power Behind the Performance! Ira, MI | Full-Time | No Weekends | Competitive Flat Rate Pay + Bonus Are you a Master-level Automotive Technician ready to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automotive Performance information

See Michigan salary details

$28.3K

$59.5K

$97.6K

How much do automotive performance jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Automotive Performance, and why are they important?

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 automotive performance jobs?

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 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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,485 per year, or $28.6 per hour.
Safety Performance Integration Engineer - Occupant Performance

Safety Performance Integration Engineer - Occupant Performance

General Motors

Warren, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


General Motors rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 305 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 44 rated automakers


Job description

Job Description
At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We're turning today's impossible into tomorrow's standard -from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.
Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.
Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to Warren, MI three times per week, at minimum.
The Role
Lead crashworthiness development and occupant performance integration for GM vehicle programs, with a primary focus on frontal impact conditions. This role owns occupant system integration across the full vehicle development cycle, driving engineering projects with strong initiative, creativity, and independent judgment. The engineer provides technical direction and partners cross-functionally (safety, structures, restraints, CAE, testing) to deliver robust, compliant, and high-performing occupant protection solutions.
What You'll Do
  • Understand and apply GM Safety CAE standard work procedures for delivering quality models and simulation results. Utilize GM Safety CAE standard work procedures for all simulations and ensure high quality models
  • Perform Computer Aided Engineering simulations to evaluate occupant performance for high-speed frontal load cases, including restraints balancing/development for Occupant protection using LS-DYNA software.
  • Using CAE to lead the vehicle design, generate feasible and timely vehicle design recommendations and technical solutions to meet safety performance targets for the vehicle program as documented in the Vehicle Technical Specifications (VTS). Balance safety requirements based on the results of crash simulations for the major safety load cases with other performance requirements.
  • Work with engineering functions, program teams, suppliers, manufacturing, and others to implement design changes as required to achieve vehicle performance.
  • Use advanced CAE tools and methods (Variation Study/DOE/DFSS/MDO) to optimize performance.
  • Plan, prepare, execute and analyze post-test results for testing at the Vehicle Proving Grounds. Interpret measurements, conduct analysis, and compare CAE to test results. Effectively communicate results and proactively collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve issues and verify solutions.
  • Work with global teams in a collaborative environment.
  • Present performance status at appropriate forums.
  • Demonstrate GM Core Values and Behaviors.
  • Travel to Milford Proving Grounds to support testing when required.

What You'll Need (Required Qualifications)
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Physics from an accredited University
  • 5+ years of relevant post-graduate industry experience
  • Working knowledge of CAE and Validation tools: LS-DYNA, PRIMER, METAPOST, ANSA, HYPERWORKS, or other CAE tools
  • Knowledge of engineering theory and application in automotive development
  • Willingness to learn new skills and adapt expeditiously
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and with others
  • High level of analytical ability to solve challenging problems and to integrate complex systems
  • Knowledge of statistical and optimization tools and techniques
  • High level of interpersonal skills to work effectively with others
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Able to travel locally

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
  • Master's or PhD in Engineering from an accredited University Mechanical, Biomechanics, Aero, Civil, Materials, Applied Physics.
  • 5+ years of demonstrated proficiency with CAE or related engineering experience (DRE, validation, lab).
  • Knowledge of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Global Safety Requirements and Standards
  • Working knowledge of Unigraphics, TeamCenter, and VisMockup
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and performance integration related applications

#LI-LP2
GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc).This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}.The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role.This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)
General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
Accommodations
General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, emailus or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

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About General Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908