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Automotive Research And Development Engineer Jobs

Asurion

Senior Research & Development Engineer

Nashville, TN

$100.90K - $138.60K/yr

This position is responsible for designing, optimizing, and influencing system-level engineering solutions that support product development, testing platforms, process innovation, and R&D initiatives ...

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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 May 31, 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 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.

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.

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What cities are hiring for Automotive Research And Development Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Research And Development Engineer job openings:
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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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 31% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,571 per year, or $46.4 per hour.
Research & Development Engineer/Scientist

Research & Development Engineer/Scientist

BCforward

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$21/hr

Contractor

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Company Description

About BCforward BCforward began as an IT business solutions and staffing firm. Founded in 1998, BCforward has grown with our customers' needs into a full service personnel solutions organization. BCforward's headquarters are in Indianapolis, Indiana and also operates delivery centers in 17 locations in North America as well as Hyderabad, India and Puerto Rico. We are currently the largest consulting firm and largest MBE certified firm headquartered in Indiana. With 14+ years of uninterrupted growth, the addition of two brands (Stafforward and PMforward) and a team of more than 1400 resources our teams deliver services for multiple industries from both public and private sectors. BCforward's team of dedicated staffing professionals has placed thousands of talented people over the past decade, with retention rates that are consistently higher than the industry average.

Job Description

Research & Development Engineer/Scientist

Des Plaines, Illinois

6 Months

$21/hr

The candidate will perform elemental analyses using a wide variety of instrumental techniques to measure the composition of catalysts, catalyst supports, and hydrocarbons. Techniques will include elemental analyses by ICP/ICP-MS, speciation analysis by IC-ICPMS, AAS, combustion analysis for C, H, N, O and specialty analyses for trace Hg in LPG and liquid hydrocarbons in support of UOP processes and R&D.

Additional responsibilities will include methods development, instrument calibration, maintenance and troubleshooting. The candidate must have the ability to undertake numerous tests with consistency and accuracy and show good problem-solving skills.

The ability to understand the elements of analytical procedures, evaluate data, participate in technical discussions, perform investigations of unexpected results and develop alternative plans is essential. The candidate will also provide shift coverage as necessary to support the business needs.

Basic Candidate Qualifications:

A minimum BS in Chemistry, or a related science discipline is required.

Minimum of 3-5 years hands-on experience on operating and maintaining ICP, ICP-MS instrument in petroleum industry/analytical science

Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Additional Requirements:

5 years of experience in analytical science is preferable

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Knowledgeable and experienced with analytical instrumentation

Familiar with design of experiments and statistical quality control

Able to act within a team environment for analyzing and characterizing materials

Previous experience with analytical techniques such as ICP, IC-ICPMS, ICP-MS and combustion are preferred

Ability to stand on your feet to repair instruments, climbs stairs/ladders, lift up to 30

Pounds, and push up to 50 pounds.

Additional Information

Thanks & Regards,
SR.IT Recruiter
Sandra Taylor
571-267-4186

BCforward logo

About BCforward

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

BCforward began as an IT business solutions and staffing firm. Founded in 1998, BCforward has grown with our customers' needs into a full service personnel solutions organization. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, BCforward also operates numerous delivery centers across North America and India. We are currently the largest consulting firm and largest MBE certified firm in Indiana. Our uninterrupted growth has allowed BCforward to deliver uniquely configured IT staffing and project solutions for over years of catering to our customers' specific needs. BCforward currently maintains a team of over 5000 global resources. With our additional brand, Stafforward, together we have the capabilities to deliver services for a variety of industries in both public and private sectors which allows us to address your most challenging needs.

Industry

It services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

1998

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