1

Automotive Research And Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automotive R&D or engineering lab experience * Technical trade school certification or automotive degree * High-voltage battery experience or certification What We're Looking For * Strong ...

Apply Early

We are an automotive supplier partner to automakers and new mobility actors worldwide. Our vision ... About The Role: As a Thermal R&D Intern/Co-op you will learn and work in a dynamic hands-on ...

We are an automotive supplier partner to automakers and new mobility actors worldwide. Our vision ... About The Role: As a Thermal R&D Intern/Co-op you will learn and work in a dynamic hands-on ...

The HORIBA Group of worldwide companies provides an extensive array of instruments and systems for applications ranging from automotive R&D, process and environmental monitoring, in-vitro medical ...

Apply Early

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automotive Research And Development information

See salary details

$48.5K

$101.8K

$165K

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

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive research and development in the United States is $101,794.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in the automotive industry?

In the automotive industry, senior executive roles such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or Chief Technology Officer (CTO) typically have the highest salaries. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often advanced degrees, and they oversee company strategy, innovation, and operations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Automotive Research and Development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Automotive Research and Development often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technology, strict regulatory standards, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. Staying updated with advancements in areas like electric vehicles and autonomous driving can be demanding, but ongoing training and cross-functional teamwork help address these complexities. Additionally, managing project timelines while ensuring innovation and compliance requires strong organizational and communication skills. Embracing a proactive learning mindset and leveraging team expertise are key strategies for overcoming these challenges.

Is R&D a good job?

Automotive Research and Development (R&D) is a specialized field focused on designing and testing new vehicle technologies, often requiring strong technical skills and knowledge of engineering tools. It can offer challenging work, opportunities for innovation, and career growth, but may also involve long hours and high-pressure deadlines. Overall, it is considered a valuable and rewarding career for those interested in automotive technology and innovation.

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

AspectAutomotive Research And DevelopmentAutomotive Design Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping new technologies, testing prototypes, improving vehicle performanceCreating vehicle aesthetics, designing components, ensuring manufacturability
Required SkillsEngineering, testing, data analysis, innovationCAD design, creativity, technical drawing, engineering principles
Work EnvironmentLabs, testing facilities, R&D centersDesign studios, CAD labs, collaboration with manufacturing teams
Common CertificationsMechanical/Electrical Engineering degrees, certifications in automotive systemsMechanical Engineering degrees, CAD certifications

Automotive Research And Development focuses on innovating and testing new vehicle technologies, while Automotive Design Engineers concentrate on creating vehicle aesthetics and detailed component designs. Both roles require engineering expertise and often collaborate within the automotive industry, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

How to start a career in R&D?

To start a career in automotive research and development, obtain a relevant degree such as mechanical, electrical, or automotive engineering. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software and data analysis, and staying updated on industry innovations can improve job prospects in R&D roles.

What is Automotive Research and Development?

Automotive Research and Development (R&D) refers to the process of innovating, designing, testing, and improving vehicles and their components. Professionals working in this field focus on creating safer, more efficient, and more sustainable cars by using advanced technologies and engineering methods. R&D teams collaborate to develop new models, improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and incorporate cutting-edge features such as autonomous driving and electric powertrains. This work is essential for automakers to stay competitive and comply with regulations in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.

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

To thrive in Automotive Research and Development, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and experience with vehicle testing systems or industry certifications (such as Six Sigma) are commonly expected. Innovative thinking, effective teamwork, and problem-solving abilities make professionals stand out in this role. These skills ensure the development of advanced, safe, and efficient automotive technologies in a highly competitive industry.

How to make 6 figures in the automotive industry?

Automotive Research and Development professionals can reach six-figure salaries by gaining advanced technical skills, such as expertise in CAD software, vehicle systems, or engineering, and obtaining relevant certifications. Progression often involves experience, leadership roles, and working for major manufacturers or innovative startups in specialized areas like electric vehicles or autonomous systems.
More about Automotive Research And Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Research And Development jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Research And Development job openings:
What states have the most Automotive Research And Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Research And Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Research And Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Research And Development jobs are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Research And Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,794 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Senior Consultant (Automotive Cybersecurity)

SBD

Ann Arbor, MI

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Senior Consultant - North America


Are you ready to build your consulting career at the forefront of automotive innovation?

SBD Automotive is a global automotive research and consulting company, supporting manufacturers, suppliers, and technology companies with strategy, insight, and execution across connected, electric, autonomous, and software-defined vehicles.


As a Senior Consultant (Automotive Cybersecurity), you will play a key role in delivering high-quality consulting engagementswith automaker and supplier product cybersecurity and risk management organizations, developing trusted client relationships, and contributing to the growth of SBD's expertise and market presence.


This is a highly visible role within the consulting team, combining analytical problem solving, client engagement, and growing commercial awareness. You will work closely with Managers, Senior Managers, and Directors to help clients navigate complex industry challenges whilst continuing to develop your consulting and domain expertise.


A Day in the Life

The role will balance project delivery, client interaction, knowledge development, and commercial contribution.

You might start the day analysing market developments, preparing client deliverables, or supporting a project team ahead of an important client regulatory or vehicle development milestone. Later, you could join a client workshop, present a section of project findings, or participate in discussions around future client product cybersecurity needs and opportunities.

No two days are identical, but the focus remains the same: delivering high-quality deliverables, building credibility with clients, and continuously developing your expertise and impact. This role will involve travel to clients.


The key Responsibilities of the role include:

Client Delivery

  • Own and/or deliver high-quality consulting outputs and project workstreams on complex technical subjects, including automotive product cybersecurity technologies and principles.
  • Support project leads in delivering successful client outcomes, in particular translating security risk to business impact, and delivering strong executive friendly synthesis and narrative.
  • Apply structured problem solving and analytical thinking to client challenges, including industry cybersecurity standards, regulations, threat and risk assessment, and technology selection to ensure delivery quality and continuous improvement.

Client Relationships and Value Creation

  • Build trusted relationships with clients and project stakeholders, including product cybersecurity management at automakers and suppliers.
  • Develop an understanding of client priorities, challenges, and business objectives and identify opportunities to add value beyond immediate project requirements.

Commercial Contribution

  • Develop an understanding of client accounts, market developments, and industry trends and identify future opportunities and engagements.
  • Support business development and networking activities including proposals, research, opportunity qualification, and relevant cybersecurity conferences.

Domain Expertise and Knowledge Development

  • Contribute to SBD's Centers of Excellence and knowledge-sharing initiatives, including (but not limited to) product cybersecurity and software-defined vehicle initiatives.
  • Stay informed on industry developments and emerging market trends and develop reusable insight, methodologies, and best practices.

Professional Contribution

  • Champion SBD's brand, values, professional standards and contribute to internal initiatives that improve the business.
  • Support colleagues through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and constructive feedback.
  • Demonstrate strong operational discipline including project planning, timesheet management, and documentation standards.
  • Leverage AI and other productivity tools appropriately to improve quality, efficiency, and client value.


About You

You are a motivated consultant who combines strong analytical capability with a genuine interest in the automotive and mobility sectors. You enjoy solving complex problems, working directly with clients, and continuously expanding your expertise.

  • Relevant technical qualifications
  • 4+ years experience in automotive or related field, with cybersecurity relevance
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and demonstrated high quality written deliverables
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills plus the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Depth of technical expertise and a willingness and agility to expand into adjacent technology domains
  • Hands-on embedded electronics experience is desirable, but not essential.


About Us

We are a global automotive research and consulting organization with 29 years of trusted expertise and a proven track record of success. We support our customers and deliver confidence through clarity, insight and visionto support better and informed decisions in the fast-changing mobility market.

  • Be part of our entrepreneurial environment and help to shape the future relationship between people and cars.
  • Our teams operate in four business units across six locations: China, Germany, India, Japan, UK, and USA.
  • Our corporate goals ofEfficiency,Accountability,AgilityandGrowthensure we stay at the top of our game and create ongoing opportunities for personal development
  • Our values ofCompassion,Collaboration,Courage,CuriosityandCommitmentare part of every decision we make - we care about our people, our clients and our ability to keep learning.
  • Benefits include Pension, Health Care, Performance based bonus and opportunities for Equity Sharing.
  • Work from home or the office, with no set office days, though occasional attendance may be expected.


Sorry, no agencies please.