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Automotive Research And Development Engineer Jobs

The Pennsylvania State University

$92K - $152K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for an analytical and detail-oriented Research and Development Engineer to join the Quantum Research Department within the Multimodal Spectrum and Sensing Division ...

Tate

Research and Development Engineer

Glasgow, KY · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Job Title: R&D Engineer Job Type : Exempt Location: Glasgow, KY Reporting To: Research & Development Manager Company: Tate About Us At Tate, we are passionate about everything we do. As an ...

The Pennsylvania State University

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a motivated Materials Research and Development Engineer to join our Electronic Materials and Devices Department (EMDD) at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL ...

NorthEastern

Temporary R&D Software Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The R&D Engineer is expected to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and contribute to the successful execution of R&D projects. Responsibilities include providing technical contributions as a ...

Hollister Incorporated

Lead R&D Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Lead R&D Engineer is a member of the Hollister Ostomy New Product Development team. The Lead R&D Engineer will lead or participate in new product development project teams to drive and develop ...

Hollister Incorporated

Lead R&D Engineer

Libertyville, IL · Hybrid

$99K - $131K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Lead R&D Engineer is a member of the Hollister Ostomy New Product Development team. The Lead R&D Engineer will lead or participate in new product development project teams to drive and develop ...

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Automotive Research And Development Engineer information

See salary details

$20K

$96.6K

$151K

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

As of Aug 17, 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 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 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 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.

More about Automotive Research And Development Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Automotive Research And Development Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Automotive Research And Development Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Automotive Research And Development Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Automotive Research And Development Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Research And Development Engineer jobs look for?

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,571 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Quantum & Multiphysics Research & Development Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$92K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for an analytical and detail-oriented Research and Development Engineer to join the Quantum Research Department within the Multimodal Spectrum and Sensing Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our department advances cutting-edge sensing technologies in both the quantum and classical regimes in order to support critical national security missions. This role will perform numerical simulations (primarily electromagnetic but also multi-physics modeling) while conducting technical assessments and literature reviews of emerging classical and quantum sensor technologies to inform strategic decision-making for our government sponsors.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Utilize numerical simulation software (mainly CST) to perform simulations. These simulations will mostly be electromagnetic in nature but sometimes multi-physics such as electromagnetic + thermal + fluid flow. The simulations are mostly in the realm of sensors and devices
  • Perform assessment work on various topics of interest to our government sponsors in the realm of sensors. This will include literature analysis and review of current market options
  • Work on a wider variety of topics that span different domains of physics, sometimes more niche (such as X-ray physics) depending on sponsor interests
  • Sometimes perform hands-on experimental work in optics
  • Write script to generate plots and process data
  • Write reports or create slides summarizing results

Required Skills/Experience areas include:
  • Numerical simulation software, or at the very least, possess the capability and drive to learn this software
  • Electromagnetics
  • Past success in writing white papers or reports
  • Ability to perform broad research on a topic of interest and summarize findings

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:
  • Hands on experimentation experience
  • Knowledge of scripting languages such as MATLAB or Python
  • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required

Your working location will be fully on-site located in State College, PA but options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or ScienceNo prior relevant work experience requiredRequired Certifications:None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $92,100.00 - $152,004.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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