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Automotive Research Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Automotive, R&D, or engineering recruiting experience preferred. * Knowledge of employment laws and recruiting best practices preferred. WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU * Zero dollar employee premiums on ...

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Automotive Research Engineer information

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$36.5K

$104.6K

$140.6K

How much do automotive research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive research engineer in California is $104,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,600.00 and $102,600.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Automotive Research Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Research Engineer jobs in California?

For Automotive Research Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Research Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Research Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Automotive Research Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Automotive Research Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Automotive Research Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,624 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Semiconductor Quality Assurance Engineer

HORIBA

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$88K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Implement effective process improvements, testing practices/validations, and communicate with customers and suppliers on product quality issues.

  • Oversee all quality systems, processes, and procedures to ensure conformance with quality standards and customer requirements.

  • Ensure compliance with ISO standards, SEMI standards, and safety requirements related to semiconductor manufacturing.


Job description

Quality Assurance Engineer

Job Description

Are you looking for an exciting career in the semiconductor industry? Semiconductors are the key evolving components in the industry today. HORIBA has kept its sights keenly focused on this micro world and provides rewarding careers in Sales and Marketing, Research and Development, Production, and Operations. 


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 diagnostics, semiconductor manufacturing and metrology, to a broad range of scientific R&D and QC measurements. Proven quality and trustworthy performance have established widespread confidence in the HORIBA Brand.


Inspired by our unique motto, “JOY and FUN,” we focus on social responsibilities by building state-of-the-art products for scientific advancement; especially for protecting health, safety, and the environment. “HORIBARIANs,” the HORIBA employees all over the world, look forward to working with additional creative and entrepreneurial self-starters. To learn more about our unique culture and vision for our future, visit 

Our Future page.


Our North American Semiconductor group is searching for an experienced Quality Assurance Engineer to join our team in Sunnyvale, CA.

In this exciting role, you will:

  • Implement effective process improvements, testing practices/validations and communicate directly with customers and suppliers on product quality issues, obsolescence and product issues related to customer use.
  • Oversee all quality systems, processes and procedures to ensure company and supplier conformance with quality and SEMI or other standards as relayed by customers, primarily Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), purchasing products and services sold by the company. 


You will bring the following skills and knowledge:

  • Quality assurance/process improvement methodologies, as typically gained through a bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline such as electrical, mechanical, industrial, or material science, or equivalent experience.
  • ISO standards and certification process.
  • General OSHA and safety requirements. 
  • 2 Years of Semiconductor Experience 

Compensation Package:

HORIBA Instruments offers a competitive compensation package that includes a 401(k) plan with match; employee group dental, vision, life, and disability (short and long-term) paid for by the company; medical insurance, family dental and vision insurance, and supplemental life insurance available with reasonable employee contributions; employee assistance program; paid holidays, vacation, and sick time; flexible spending accounts; and educational reimbursement and commuter benefit programs.

To Apply

Please upload your resume and a letter of interest HERE.

If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, please email semiconductorjobs.us@horiba .com or call (800) 446 -7422 ext. 7528 for assistance. HORIBA will provide reasonable accommodation, upon request, to support individuals with disabilities to be able to participate in the hiring process. HORIBA is committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities.

 EEO/Affirmative Action/Veteran Status/Disabilities.

Company Description

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 diagnostics, semiconductor manufacturing and metrology, to a broad range of scientific R&D and QC measurements. Proven quality and trustworthy performance have established widespread confidence in the HORIBA Brand.

Inspired by our unique motto, “JOY and FUN,” we focus on social responsibilities by building state-of-the-art products for scientific advancement; especially for protecting health, safety, and the environment. “HORIBARIANs,” the HORIBA employees all over the world, look forward to working with additional creative ad entrepreneurial self-starters. To learn more about our unique culture, visit our culture page at https://www.horiba.com/en_en/company/about-horiba/culture/