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

Senior Research Engineer/Advanced Engineering

Troy, MI ยท 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 Jun 18, 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Automotive R&D Engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like vehicle design, propulsion systems, or autonomous technology can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often reflects leadership roles, patent contributions, or work at major automotive companies with competitive benefits and bonuses.

How much money do R&D engineers make?

Automotive R&D engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in areas like vehicle electronics or advanced materials can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

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 is R&D in automotive?

Research and Development (R&D) in the automotive industry involves designing, testing, and improving vehicle technologies, such as engines, safety systems, and electric powertrains. Automotive R&D engineers work with tools like CAD software and testing equipment to innovate and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior automotive R&D engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like electric vehicles or autonomous systems can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in high-cost regions or with leadership roles. Achieving this level often requires a combination of technical expertise, project management, and industry reputation.
Infographic showing various Automotive R&D Engineer job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,564 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Additive Manufacturing Engineer-R&D

Additive Manufacturing Engineer-R&D

ELMET TECHNOLOGIES LLC

Coldwater, MI โ€ข On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description:

About Elmet Technologies
Elmet Technologies is the leading global provider of high-performance refractory metals and precision-engineered components for the aerospace, defense, semiconductor, and medical industries. As part of The Elmet Group, we combine advanced materials science, manufacturing expertise, and innovation to support some of the worldโ€™s most demanding applications.


We are seeking an Additive Manufacturing (AM) Engineer โ€“ R&D to help advance next-generation refractory metal additive manufacturing processes. This role will play a key part in developing scientifically validated material processes that enable future commercial applications.


Position Summary
The AM Engineer โ€“ R&D is the innovation owner for additive manufacturing within the Research & Development team. This role is responsible for developing and verifying the scientific processes necessary for the future commercial viability of refractory metal alloys.


The primary objective of this position is to develop and formally deliver a Qualified Material Process (QMP) compliant with NASA-STD-6030 requirements where applicable.

Key Responsibilities


Material Process Qualification

  • Design and execute Design of Experiments (DOEs) on R&D additive manufacturing equipment to evaluate and qualify new refractory metal alloys
  • Utilize Statistical Process Control (SPC) to define material allowables
  • Develop and finalize the Qualified Material Process (QMP) package

Powder & Post-Processing Collaboration

  • Work directly with the in-house powder production team to:
    • Define powder specifications
    • Evaluate new powder batches
    • Optimize feedstock recycling strategies
  • Design and monitor heat treatment and Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) trials to achieve required material properties and reduce internal stresses

Technical Documentation & Industry Outreach

  • Prepare scientific data for:
    • Internal technical release
    • External publications including papers and patents
  • Present technical findings at industry conferences and technical forums
  • Represent Elmet Technologies within the advanced manufacturing and materials science community

Equipment & Data Management

  • Serve as the primary owner and technical expert for the R&D additive manufacturing printer
  • Manage process parameters, build strategies, and experimental testing
  • Ensure all build files, testing data, and documentation comply with CMMC requirements for secure storage of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

Collaboration & Technology Transfer

  • Work closely with the AM Technician to run experimental builds and testing campaigns
  • Transfer validated Qualified Material Process (QMP) packages to the Production Engineer for industrialization
  • Support verification runs on production printers prior to release of new products

Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or Aerospace Engineering required
  • Masterโ€™s degree or PhD preferred

Experience

  • 3+ years of experience in metal additive manufacturing process development, preferably with high-temperature or refractory alloys
  • Proven experience with high-temperature post-processing, including:
    • Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP)
    • Vacuum heat treatment
  • 2+ years of experience managing Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) production builds
  • Experience conducting Design of Experiments (DOE)

Technical Skills

  • Proficiency with lab instruments including:
    • Microscopes
    • Calipers
    • Basic inspection and measurement equipment
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
  • Experience with powder metallurgy is a plus
  • General metrology experience is a plus

Documentation & Communication

  • Excellent documentation and organizational skills with strong attention to detail
  • Experience presenting technical findings to management and external audiences
  • Ability to produce technical research documentation, reports, and publications
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English

Security & Compliance

  • Experience managing controlled digital technical data
  • Strong commitment to following strict quality, documentation, and security protocols

Why Join Elmet Technologies

  • Opportunity to support advanced materials manufacturing and innovation
  • Exposure to aerospace, defense, semiconductor, and energy industries
  • High-impact laboratory role ensuring material integrity and compliance
  • Collaborative culture grounded in technical excellence and operational discipline
  • Compensation: TBD, plus a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off

Search Process Note
The Elmet Group is managing this search directly and is not accepting submissions from outside recruitment firms.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The Elmet Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a proud federal contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

Requirements: