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Automotive Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Waabi

Research Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

4SSilversword

Research Analyst III

Washington, DC · On-site

$60K/yr

The Research Analyst III will use experience in a specific automotive research field; know industry ... Collaborate with engineers, investigators, policy analysts, software developers, and other ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Waabi

Research Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$122K - $215K/yr

Waabi is backed by and partners with world leaders in AI, automotive, logistics, and deep tech. ... To learn more visit: www.waabi.ai As a Research Engineer, you will be at the forefront of advancing ...

Sunray IT Inc

Dev/Research Engineer 2

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Dev/Research Engineer 2 Location: Tucson, AZ Work Type: On-site, full-time Start Date: September 7, ... Testing/validation experience in heavy equipment, automotive, or industrial machinery

Ford Motor Company

Research Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$74K - $124K/yr

... Engineering, to establish targets and optimize technologies. Collaborate with internal research ... related field Automotive industry experience, including cross-functional work experience in ...

Ford Motor Company

Research Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$74K - $124K/yr

... related field Automotive industry experience, including cross-functional work experience in ... Engineering, to establish targets and optimize technologies. Collaborate with internal research ...

Magna

Senior Research Engineer/Advanced Engineering

Troy, MI · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

The Senior Research Engineer/Advanced Engineering will work on technology projects within the ... Analyze automotive market trends along with region-specific regulations and develop domain-specific ...

Magna

Senior Research Engineer/Advanced Engineering

Troy, MI · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

The Senior Research Engineer/Advanced Engineering will work on technology projects within the ... Analyze automotive market trends along with region-specific regulations and develop domain-specific ...

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Automotive Research Engineer information

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$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do automotive research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive research engineer in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automotive research engineer do?

An Automotive Research Engineer conducts studies and experiments to develop new vehicle technologies, improve performance, enhance safety, and increase efficiency. They work on designing, testing, and analyzing automotive components, materials, and systems. This role often involves using computer simulations, data analysis, and prototype testing to solve engineering challenges. Automotive Research Engineers collaborate with manufacturers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to meet industry standards. Their work is essential in driving innovation in areas like electric vehicles, autonomous technology, and sustainability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive research engineer?

To thrive as an Automotive Research Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, advanced problem-solving skills, and expertise in data analysis. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications (such as ISO/TS 16949) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex results to multidisciplinary teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies enable you to develop innovative automotive solutions, ensure product safety, and collaborate effectively in a dynamic R&D environment.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for automotive research engineers?

Automotive Research Engineers often begin their careers in entry-level or junior engineering roles, focusing on research and product development. With experience, they can advance to senior engineer positions, project management, or specialize in areas like powertrain, vehicle safety, or autonomous systems. Many also progress to lead teams, contribute to strategic decisions, or move into R&D management roles. Continuous learning and staying current with industry technology can significantly enhance your career growth within the automotive sector.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Research Engineer jobs?

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What states have the most Automotive Research Engineer jobs?

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Automotive Research Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Research Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,012 per year, or $51 per hour.

SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER

Southwest Research Institute

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 75 rated research

Job description

Providing design, development, and analysis on components, engines, transmissions, and vehicles, we also support research and modeling for fuel mixing, combustion, filtration, and fluid flow analysis.

Responsibilities
  • Lead programs focused on developing advanced optimization techniques and control strategies for conventional, electrified, and alternative fuel engines, exhaust aftertreatment systems, and other integrated vehicle control systems.
  • Architect and oversee the implementation of rapid prototyping controllers (such as NI cRIO, dSPACE, and ETAS) by mentoring junior staff and ensuring alignment with program objectives and system requirements.
  • Provide strategic guidance on the application of advanced control theory, signal processing, and data analysis to enhance the efficiency, performance, and sustainability of powertrain systems.
  • Conduct technical reviews to validate models and control strategies, ensuring seamless integration across systems.
  • Write high-quality reports and deliver presentations to clients and stakeholders, translating complex concepts into actionable recommendations with opportunities to expand project portfolios.
  • Prepare bids and lead technical and promotional initiatives to win new work, cultivating client relationships to drive collaboration and innovation.
Requirements
  • Requires a Masters degree or foreign equivalent, in Mechanical Engineering or Automotive Engineering.
  • Must have 4 years of post-baccalaureate experience or research as a Research Engineer or related automotive engineering research role.
  • The 4 years of experience must include automotive engineering research, control algorithm development and implementation for real-time controllers, vehicle, fuel economy, combustion, and emissions testing, data acquisition and analysis.
  • The experience must include proficiency in Matlab, Simulink, Control Desk-Dspace, LabVIEW, National Instruments hardware, and the ability to communicate test data and results to clients through detailed reports.
  • The experience must include preparing bids, promotional materials and proposal presentations for new projects and clients.
  • Must travel 10% domestically to conduct promotional activities and support clients on-site.
Job Location

San Antonio, Texas

Benefits information available at this location and across other locations.

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

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