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Automotive Research And Development Engineer Jobs

Stryker

Engineer, Research & Development

Tempe, AZ · Hybrid

$69K - $110K/yr

Hybrid or Onsite Engineer, Research & Development Tempe, AZ As an R&D Engineer, you will contribute to design, prototyping, testing, and documentation activities across the product lifecycle, while ...

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Automotive Research And Development Engineer information

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$20K

$96.6K

$151K

How much do automotive research and development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive research and development engineer in the United States is $96,571.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by an Automotive Research and Development Engineer during the product development cycle?

Automotive Research and Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative design with strict regulatory and safety standards, managing tight project timelines, and coordinating with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, procurement, and marketing. They must also stay updated with rapidly evolving automotive technologies and ensure new products meet both customer expectations and environmental requirements. Effective problem-solving and adaptability are key, as unexpected technical issues or changing project scopes are common in this dynamic field.

What does an Automotive Research and Development Engineer do?

An Automotive Research and Development (R&D) Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and improving vehicles and their components. They work on developing new technologies, enhancing performance, safety, and fuel efficiency, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. This role often involves collaborating with other engineers, using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and conducting experiments or simulations to validate new ideas and products. Ultimately, their work helps bring innovative and reliable vehicles to market.

What is the difference between Automotive Research And Development Engineer vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectAutomotive Research And Development EngineerAutomotive Design Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping new technologies, testing prototypes, and improving vehicle performanceCreating detailed vehicle designs, styling, and engineering drawings
Required SkillsEngineering analysis, prototyping, testing, and research methodsCAD design, styling, ergonomics, and technical drawing skills
Work EnvironmentLabs, testing facilities, R&D departmentsDesign studios, CAD labs, and engineering offices
Industry UsageUsed across automotive manufacturers and R&D centersPrimarily in design departments of automotive companies

While both roles are essential in automotive development, the Automotive Research And Development Engineer focuses on innovation, testing, and improving vehicle technologies, whereas the Automotive Design Engineer concentrates on creating the vehicle's aesthetic and functional design. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Research and Development Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Research and Development Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS, and knowledge of regulatory standards are typically required, along with certifications such as FE or PE being advantageous. Strong project management, teamwork, and innovative thinking are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing advanced automotive systems, ensuring safety and efficiency, and driving technological innovation in the automotive industry.
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Automotive Research And Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Research And Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,571 per year, or $46.4 per hour.
Electrical Research & Development Engineer

Electrical Research & Development Engineer

Mainstream Engineering

Rockledge, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Due to continued growth, we are seeking talented Electrical Research & Development Engineers. This position plays a critical role in developing electronics products related to thermal control and energy conversion. Successful candidates will provide innovative engineering in the design and layout of PCBs, programming of microcontrollers, and design/implementation of analog circuitry and testing.
Specific Duties and Competencies:
  • Develop electronic control equipment for thermal control and energy conversion equipment.
  • Design, layout (Altium), fabricate, and test printed circuit boards and program controllers for a wide array of equipment.
  • Develop all electronics from the PCB to the mechanical equipment (starting circuits, capacitors, wire harnesses, etc.)
  • Design lab test instrumentation for concept evaluation
  • Use tools such as Labview, C/C++, LTSPICE, and MATLAB to aid in modeling, verification and validation

Position Requirements
  • BS in electrical engineering required with a minimum GPA of 3.3
  • Internship experience required for entry level candidates
  • Prior experience as a technician is a plus
  • Experience programming various microcontrollers and interfacing to peripherals
  • Experience with common microcontroller communication protocols
  • Knowledge of electronic components and power supplies including how to vet them for various applications
  • Proficient in schematics and layouts
  • Knowledge of CAD software desired
  • United States Citizenship required due to US Government ITAR program restrictions

Mainstream Engineering Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.

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