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Automotive Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer - CA

Hughson, CA

$71K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

TEST ENGINEERS The sky is the limit when it comes to new ideas here at MGA Research Corporation ... In addition to the automotive industry, MGA conducts safety testing in the aerospace and energy ...

Test Engineer, BMS Hardware

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$60 - $75.18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems, automotive, or energy storage applications and a Bachelor"s degree in Electrical ... Test Engineer, BMS Hardware job duties * Ensure that BMS electronics meet functional, reliability ...

We are looking to hire a Senior System Test Engineer with a strong background in embedded and automotive systems who will work in the test solutions group at NVIDIA developing manufacturing test ...

... 8, meeting automotive-grade requirements. * Drive DFT/DFM implementation for new products ... Analyze engineering test data and report results to the team (design, product engineering ...

... automotive, industrial, and adjacent markets. Our innovations are at the heart of advanced ... As an Analog/RF ATE Test Engineer, you will play a key role in the development, validation, and ...

Staff Vehicle Test Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$160 - $210/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

ALSO. is looking for a Vehicle Test Engineer to play a key role in defining and supporting ... Working knowledge of automotive communication protocols (CAN, CAN FD, SPI) and Vector tools

IC Test Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our ~15,000 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy ... As an IC Test Engineer, you will be joining a dedicated team of visionaries to innovate and deliver ...

IC Test Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our ~15,000 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy ... As an IC Test Engineer, you will be joining a dedicated team of visionaries to innovate and deliver ...

IC Test Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our ~15,000 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy ... As an IC Test Engineer, you will be joining a dedicated team of visionaries to innovate and deliver ...

IC Test Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our ~15,000 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy ... As an IC Test Engineer, you will be joining a dedicated team of visionaries to innovate and deliver ...

IC Test Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our ~15,000 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy ... As an IC Test Engineer, you will be joining a dedicated team of visionaries to innovate and deliver ...

Showing results 21-40

Automotive Test Engineer information

See California salary details

$17

$43

$73

How much do automotive test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive test engineer in California is $43.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.98 and $51.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automotive test engineer do?

An Automotive Test Engineer is responsible for evaluating vehicle components, systems, and overall performance to ensure they meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards. They design and execute tests for engines, transmissions, electronics, and other critical systems, analyzing data to identify issues and recommend improvements. This role involves working with simulation tools, test benches, and real-world driving conditions. Automotive Test Engineers collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to enhance vehicle reliability and efficiency.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an automotive test engineer?

As an Automotive Test Engineer, your typical day involves designing and conducting tests on prototypes or production vehicles to assess performance, safety, and compliance with regulations. You’ll analyze data, document test results, and collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to identify and resolve technical issues. Field testing may require travel to test tracks or environmental chambers, depending on the stage of development. This hands-on and analytical work ensures vehicles meet rigorous standards before reaching consumers.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, analytical problem-solving, and data interpretation skills, often backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automotive diagnostic tools, test automation software, and standards like ISO 26262 is commonly expected, along with certifications in automotive safety or testing. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork enable success in cross-functional environments. These competencies are crucial to ensure vehicle safety, reliability, and compliance with industry standards throughout the development process.

Are automotive test engineers in demand?

Automotive test engineers are in demand due to the increasing focus on vehicle safety, emissions standards, and technological advancements such as electric and autonomous vehicles. Employers seek professionals skilled in testing protocols, data analysis, and relevant tools like CAN bus systems and simulation software, often requiring relevant certifications and experience. The role offers steady opportunities in automotive manufacturing, research, and development sectors.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Automotive Test Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,822 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

$71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

TEST ENGINEERS
The sky is the limit when it comes to new ideas here at MGA Research Corporation because we are always looking for ways to improve and your ideas are valued. From testing individual components within a vehicle to full scale vehicle crash tests, you have the opportunity to expand your electrical and mechanical skill set while working in a team-oriented, hands-on environment.
About Us
MGA Research is known as one of the leading automotive testing companies worldwide. It’s true we focus on safety and reliability, doing all we can to protect both drivers and passengers as we conduct product safety. In addition to the automotive industry, MGA conducts safety testing in the aerospace and energy storage industries as well as equipment fabrication.
What We Need
We are looking for Engineers with technical backgrounds who are comfortable in both independent and team-oriented roles; Leadership opportunities are available creating a high potential in career advancement.
Engineering Responsibilities
Daily roles include customer interaction, high-level problem solving, and data analysis.

  • Collaborate with related MGA facilities to maintain consistent operating practices and introduce improvements throughout.
  • Provide "hands-on" test engineering including project setup, specifications, and performance
  • Guarantee that new testing equipment is performance validated, operating procedures are in place, and training is conducted
  • Manage numerous continuous improvement initiatives without disruption of day-to-day testing activities.
  • Ensure lab equipment maintenance is performed as needed and equipment calibration schedules are adhered to.
  • Forecast facility and equipment needs to support business growth.
  • Provide technical support of day-to-day testing activities.
  • Quality related activities such as preparation, checking, and filing of calibration reports and maintaining our instrument database
  • Daily communication with project engineers to forecast resource needs and help set priority of workload with our instrumentation teams
Requirements
For this position, it is imperative to have a Bachelor of Engineering degree at an Accredited University. Additional Qualifications include:
  • Strong desire to work in an advanced technical field
  • Quality and safety mindset
  • Comfortable using hand tools
  • Comfortable working with computers
  • Authorized to work in the United States
Other desired skills:
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic and constantly changing environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
  • Clean and organized worker to help drive overall shop cleanliness and organization.
  • Confidence to speak up for safety related issues.
What We Offer - Benefits
    • Health Insurance
    • Dental Insurance
    • Life Insurance
    • Paid sick/vacation/holiday
    • Competitive Pay - $71,000/year starting
    • Yearly discretionary bonuses and raises
    • 401k matching
    • Profit-sharing
    • Tuition reimbursement while employed at MGA
    • Opportunity for advancement: MGA promotes internally
    • Travel opportunities between MGA’s eight North American facilities
Locations
Our ten facilities in North America, include:
  • Akron, NY
  • Burlington, WI
  • Greer, SC
  • Hughson, CA
  • Irving, TX
  • Lincoln, AL
  • Manassas, VA
  • Mississauga, Ontario
  • Queretero, Mexico
  • Troy, MI
     

We aim to continue our mission in providing quality services to our customers as we seek to expand our team while contributing to the exciting world of testing in the safety industry.
We are currently accepting applications for all locations: Anyone with these skill sets, and all other interested applicants are encouraged to apply.
MGA Research is an equal opportunity employer.