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Automotive R&D Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Senior Research Engineer/Advanced Engineering

Troy, MI · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

Analyze automotive market trends along with region-specific regulations and develop domain-specific ... R, D-FMEA, etc.), and its cost drivers or technology gaps. * Analyze engineering results and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automotive R D Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$30.5K

$69.6K

$100.7K

How much do automotive r&d engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive r&d engineer in Michigan is $69,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automotive R&D Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, problem-solving abilities, and experience in automotive systems, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry standards such as ISO/TS16949, as well as knowledge of prototyping methods, is typically required. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and creative thinking are highly valued soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative automotive solutions, collaborating across multidisciplinary teams, and staying competitive in a rapidly advancing industry.

What is an Automotive R&D Engineer job?

An Automotive R&D Engineer is responsible for researching, designing, and developing new automotive technologies, components, and systems. They work to improve vehicle performance, safety, fuel efficiency, and sustainability through innovation and testing. Their role often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, using computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and conducting experiments to validate new designs. They stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and advancements to ensure competitive and compliant automotive solutions.

What kinds of projects and daily responsibilities can I expect as an Automotive R&D Engineer?

As an Automotive R&D Engineer, your daily responsibilities can vary from designing and testing new automotive components to analyzing data from prototypes and collaborating with manufacturing teams. Typical projects may involve improving vehicle safety, fuel efficiency, or developing next-generation technologies such as electric drivetrains or advanced driver-assistance systems. You will likely work as part of a multidisciplinary team, interacting with designers, software engineers, and quality assurance professionals. This dynamic environment requires adaptability and a willingness to learn as technologies and project priorities evolve. Being proactive and detail-oriented will help you succeed in the fast-paced world of automotive research and development.

What job categories do people searching Automotive R&D Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive R&D Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Automotive R&D Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,564 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Controls Engineer - R & D Laboratory

Controls Engineer - R & D Laboratory

Bradford White Corporation

Middleville, MI • On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Bradford White rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About the Company:
Throughout a history dating back to 1881, Bradford White Corporation has been manufacturing some of the most high-performing, technologically advanced, and energy-saving products to the world market. While many manufacturers continue to move production out of the country, we continue to invest in America.
We are proud to have millions of products installed for millions of satisfied customers all over the world. Our essential products continue to support the health, safety, sanitation, and infrastructure of communities and for 2024 we've been recognized as an Energy Star Partner of the Year Sustained Excellence Award Winner for the fourth straight year.
For the Bradford White family of companies, customer satisfaction is our greatest reward, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to deliver products that are Built to be the Best®. Today, we employ more than 1900 employees with headquarters in suburban Philadelphia and manufacturing operations in Middleville and Niles, Michigan, Rochester, New Hampshire, Uxbridge, Massachusetts, and Monticello, Minnesota.
Primary Function:
The Controls Engineer - R&D Laboratory is responsible for the Research and Development Laboratory data acquisition system and related test apparatus. Routine activities include LabVIEW programming, troubleshooting test equipment, resolving data collection/reporting issues, data acquisition system maintenance, and implementing test standard changes. This role works closely with laboratory staff and product engineering teams to improve test performance, reduce downtime, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Use metrics and data analysis to evaluate, monitor, and improve test station controls, data collection systems, and overall equipment performance.
  • Develop and maintain data collection, programming, and HMI standards, including program storage, backup systems, and controls documentation.
  • Create and support executable programs using LabVIEW and Python.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and problem solve test equipment, hardware performance, and equipment failures.
  • Recommend and implement instrumentation and equipment improvements to enhance accuracy, performance, maintainability, and reliability.
  • Ensure the technical accuracy of electrical drawings, schematics, test sequence programs, and data computations, with strong attention to detail.
  • Apply a strong understanding of electrical design principles, CAD, NEC, and relevant industry standards to electrical systems ranging from 24V to 1,000V, including 480V applications.
  • Demonstrated experience with industrial automation, control systems, statistical techniques, and electrical
  • A self-starter who can recognize improvement opportunities, define project scope, and drive to completion independently.
  • Adapt to shifting priorities as new issues arise and communicate the impact effectively to larger audiences.
  • Strong ownership mentality and customer focus to ensure testing instrumentation is available for use when needed.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field, Bachelors in Electrical Engineering preferred.
  • Proficient with automation programming tools and hardware, National Instruments preferred.
  • Experience with LabVIEW, Ignition, and Python; experience in relatable programming languages will be considered.
  • 2-5 years' experience in a fast paced, customer-focused environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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