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Automotive R&D Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SHIELDTEC LLC

R & D Product Engineer

Buford, GA · On-site

R/D Product Engineer Shielding Technology Department: Tooling Department Functional Area: R/D ... Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes, including feasibility, design and testing.

Penske Racing South

R & D Fabricator

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Wind tunnel testing experience in a motorsports or high-performance automotive environment. * Familiarity with NASCAR technical inspection processes and compliance requirements. * Proficiency with ...

HORIBA

R+D Technician

Reno, NV · On-site

Company Description The HORIBA Group of worldwide companies provides an extensive array of instruments and systems for applications ranging from automotive R&D, process and environmental monitoring ...

Sherwin-Williams

R&D- Chemist II

Brecksville, OH · On-site

$74K - $94K/yr

Independently lead development projects of moderate to high complexity within the Automotive NPD Ancillary Team, with moderate supervision. * Responsible for developing new products for the Refinish ...

Sherwin-Williams

R&D- Chemist II

Brecksville, OH · On-site

Knowledge of structure-property relationship as it pertains to automotive refinish, OE Interior, or aerospace coatings. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS * Master's Degree or higher in a science related area ...

McGard LLC

Electroplating Lab Tech I

Orchard Park, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We specialize in manufacturing high-quality, precision-engineered automotive security products and ... Run test racks on the R & D plating line. Requirements: * High School graduate or equivalent.

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Automotive R D information

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How much do automotive r&d jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive r&d in the United States is $27.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Automotive R&D?

Automotive R&D (Research and Development) refers to the process of innovating, designing, testing, and improving vehicles and their components. Professionals in this field work on developing new technologies, enhancing vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Automotive R&D is essential for creating cutting-edge features such as electric powertrains, autonomous driving systems, and advanced safety mechanisms. This work helps manufacturers stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of consumers and the industry.

What is the difference between Automotive R&D vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectAutomotive R&DAutomotive Design Engineer
Primary FocusResearch and development of new vehicle technologies, prototypes, and innovationsDesigning vehicle components and aesthetics based on engineering specifications
Required SkillsEngineering, prototyping, testing, innovationCAD design, creativity, engineering principles
Work EnvironmentLabs, testing facilities, R&D centersDesign studios, CAD software environments
Common CertificationsMechanical/Electrical Engineering degrees, R&D certificationsMechanical Engineering degrees, CAD certifications

Automotive R&D and Automotive Design Engineer roles overlap in engineering fundamentals but differ in focus. R&D emphasizes innovation and testing new technologies, while Design Engineering concentrates on creating vehicle designs and components. Both roles are essential in automotive development but serve distinct functions within the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Automotive R&D, and why are they important?

To thrive in Automotive R&D, you need a solid background in engineering, materials science, and automotive technology, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or automotive engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards like ISO/TS 16949 are commonly required, along with experience in prototyping and testing methodologies. Curiosity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that drive innovation and successful project outcomes. These competencies ensure the development of advanced, safe, and reliable automotive solutions in a highly competitive and evolving industry.

What are some typical challenges faced in an Automotive R&D role, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Professionals in Automotive R&D often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technologies, tight project deadlines, and the need to balance innovation with regulatory compliance. Candidates can prepare by staying updated on industry trends, developing strong project management skills, and gaining familiarity with relevant software and testing protocols. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams is also common, so effective communication and adaptability are valuable assets in addressing these challenges and driving successful project outcomes.
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What cities are hiring for Automotive R&D jobs? Cities with the most Automotive R&D job openings:
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Automotive R D jobs near you

R & D Product Engineer

SHIELDTEC LLC

Buford, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Position: R/D Product Engineer Shielding Technology

Department: Tooling Department

Functional Area: R/D

Classification : Non-Exempt Exempt

Reporting Structure: Tooling Director

Educational Background Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in product engineering or a related role.
  • Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes, including feasibility, design and testing.
  • Experience with design software and tools, such as SolidWorks, Autoform and CATA design software
  • Strong attention to detail with a creative eye for solving complex problems.

Skills and Training

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in product engineering or a related role.
  • Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes, including feasibility, design and testing.
  • Experience with design software and tools, such as SolidWorks, AutoForm and NX.
  • Strong attention to detail with a creative eye for solving complex problems.

Essential Functions Required for Job

  • Developing new high temperature shielding solutions according to client’s requirements and industry to create functional, high-quality products.
  • Testing products to ensure they meet performance and quality standards.
  • Expert level knowledge of materials and their applications across automotive industry.
  • Improving and updating existing product solutions as per the latest industry standards.
  • Working closely with other teams to ensure that the product design is efficient and smooth.
  • Conducting market research to inform product development decisions.
  • Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint and Word documents
  • Excellent communication skills

Job Content: Essential Functions Required for Job

  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams, including Sales, Tooling, Production, Quality and Supply Chain, to ensure product feasibility
  • Work with Customer DRE to ensure product design meets functional requirements while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
  • Coordinate with current and new suppliers and purchasing department to assist development of sources for advanced materials/components to meet evolving customer requirements.
  • Documenting the product development process, including specifications, iterations, and final engineering drawings.
  • Optimizing product designs for manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
  • Oversee prototype builds and tests to meet customer milestones and requirements.

Sales support responsibilities

  • Creating project folders within PDM structure to facilitate project document management
  • Creation of technical review presentation to communicate project feasibility to customer
  • Support sales with customer meetings on a technical level
  • Project ID (PID) creation and management

Interaction Required: Within the company and Externally

  • All Internal Departments
  • External Vendors, contractors, and transportation personnel.

Physical Requirements:

  • Sitting
  • Standing
  • Repeated Hand Motion

Environmental Conditions:

  • Controlled Temperatures: Offices, Labs
  • Exposure to Noise, Dust, Oil/Solvent Fumes
  • Other:­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.