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Automotive Test Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Vehicle Test Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

This takes the form of operating test vehicles statically, driving on public roads, or private test ... Prior professional automotive driving or autonomous vehicle experience * Self-motivated, organized ...

Automotive Technician

Renton, WA · On-site

$21 - $31.56/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$20.13 - $30.25/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$20.13 - $30.25/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$20.13 - $30.25/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$20.13 - $30.25/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$16.63 - $24.99/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Auburn, WA · On-site

$16.63 - $24.99/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Fairwood, WA · On-site

$21 - $31.56/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Renton, WA · On-site

$21 - $31.56/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Auburn, WA · On-site

$16.63 - $24.99/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

Automotive Technician

Renton, WA · On-site

$21 - $31.56/hr

Automotive Technicians participate in routine inspections, contribute to vehicle assessments, and ... Road test vehicles. * Obtain or maintain A.S.E. certifications in at least one of A1 - A8 within ...

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Automotive Test information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$28

$45

How much do automotive test jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive test in Seattle, WA is $28.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.98 and $32.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automotive test?

Automotive test engineers are professionals who develop and conduct tests on vehicles and their components to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance with industry standards. They design testing procedures, analyze test results, and collaborate with other engineers to improve vehicle performance. Their work covers a range of areas such as crash testing, emissions, durability, and electronics, making sure vehicles meet both regulatory requirements and customer expectations.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Test Engineer, you need strong knowledge of automotive systems, mechanical and electrical engineering principles, and often a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data acquisition systems, and testing software such as CANalyzer or LabVIEW is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate test results, vehicle safety, and seamless collaboration with design and manufacturing teams.

What are some common challenges faced in an automotive test engineer role, and how can they be addressed?

Automotive test engineers often face challenges such as tight project deadlines, rapidly evolving technologies, and the need to comply with strict safety and regulatory standards. Addressing these challenges typically involves effective time management, continuous learning to stay updated on industry advancements, and close collaboration with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams. Clear communication and thorough documentation are also essential to ensure that test results are accurate and actionable, helping to identify issues early and maintain high product quality.

What is the difference between Automotive Test vs Automotive Quality Assurance?

AspectAutomotive TestAutomotive Quality Assurance
Primary FocusConducting tests on vehicle components and systems to ensure functionality and safetyMonitoring and improving processes to ensure overall product quality
Work EnvironmentTest labs, vehicle testing grounds, and development facilitiesQuality control departments, manufacturing plants, and inspection sites
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, certifications in testing methods, technical skillsQuality management certifications, engineering background, process knowledge

Automotive Test professionals focus on performing specific tests on vehicle parts and systems to verify safety and performance. In contrast, Automotive Quality Assurance specialists oversee the quality processes throughout manufacturing to prevent defects. While both roles require technical knowledge and engineering credentials, their daily tasks and work environments differ, with testing centered on validation and QA on process improvement.

What job categories do people searching Automotive Test jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Test jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Automotive Test job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,961 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Vehicle Test Operator

Kett Engineering

Seattle, WA • On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Temporary

Posted 16 days ago

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Job description

Job Description:

Kett Engineering's client is looking for 20+ Vehicle Operators for an autonomous vehicle data collection project.

In this role, you will be responsible for operating, driving, troubleshooting and evaluating client's prototype test vehicles and documenting product development feedback to our engineers. This takes the form of operating test vehicles statically, driving on public roads, or private test facilities, conducting safety inspections and performing specialized test procedures.

Anticipated Shifts:

1st shift: 6:00am - 2:30pm

2nd shift: 5:00pm - 1:30am

Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate test vehicles in a wide range of testing conditions up to 8 hours/day
  • Perform vehicle prep work, including basic vehicle inspections and diagnostics before and after driving
  • Troubleshoot hardware and software issues
  • Collect data via data acquisition systems
  • Complete clear, concise and detailed post drive reports and online tickets, working with and escalating to engineers as necessary
  • Assist with training of new vehicle operators
  • Additional work and tasks as needed by the team

Qualifications:

  • Prior professional automotive driving or autonomous vehicle experience
  • Self-motivated, organized and demonstrate good judgement in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
  • Attention to detail and able to describe events quickly and concisely
  • Good command of the English language with excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in using a smartphone, laptop and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to drive safely in all conditions and alone or with a partner for 6-8 hrs. a day
  • Must be flexible to work overtime as needed
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to pass an MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) background check and onsite road test examination

Bonus

  • Experience with Jira
  • Experience driving 16 ft or larger vehicles

Company Description

Established in 1953, Kett Engineering is a leader in the Automotive Test and Personnel Services industry. Our goal is to provide our Automotive and OEM customers with superior service.

The strength and success of Kett clearly comes from the people behind the organization. Our workforce is comprised of dedicated, talented and hard working individuals with years of industry experience.

If you have an interest in automotive technology industry, a passion for excellence and a desire to exceed expectations then, we want you on are our team!