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Chassis Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer, Chassis Carlsbad, California | Engineering | Full-time About the role The Sr. Chassis Engineer will develop, design, engineer and implement the vehicle chassis system and components ...

Staff Tire Engineer - Chassis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$137K - $172K/yr

Role Summary Join Rivian's Vehicle Hardware Engineering - Chassis - Product Development team as a key contributor in bringing our electric adventure vehicles to life. As a Lead Tire Engineer, you ...

Staff Tire Engineer - Chassis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$137K - $172K/yr

Role Summary Join Rivian's Vehicle Hardware Engineering - Chassis - Product Development team as a key contributor in bringing our electric adventure vehicles to life. As a Lead Tire Engineer, you ...

Staff Tire Engineer - Chassis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$137K - $172K/yr

Role Summary Join Rivian's Vehicle Hardware Engineering - Chassis - Product Development team as a key contributor in bringing our electric adventure vehicles to life. As a Lead Tire Engineer, you ...

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Chassis Engineer information

See California salary details

$20

$52

$98

How much do chassis engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for chassis engineer in California is $52.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.98 and $63.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chassis engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chassis Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, vehicle dynamics, and structural analysis, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools, and familiarity with industry standards are crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure the design, safety, and performance of vehicle chassis systems meet both regulatory and customer expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by chassis engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Chassis Engineers often face challenges related to balancing vehicle performance, safety, and cost constraints while working within tight development timelines. They must ensure that the chassis design meets stringent regulatory standards and integrates seamlessly with other vehicle systems. Effective communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as suspension, powertrain, and manufacturing—are crucial to address these challenges. Staying updated on the latest materials and simulation technologies can also help Chassis Engineers deliver innovative solutions efficiently.

What is a chassis engineer?

A chassis engineer’s responsibilities are to design, analyze, and test structural systems, steering, brakes, hydraulics, and suspensions in vehicles. In this career, you are responsible for assisting with the architectural design of the chassis system. You are also responsible for conducting investigations and drive failure analysis on found problems. You monitor and analyze data from various tests you administer on different components of the vehicle to ensure proper function. Additional duties are to create technical reports from data and analysis, manage costs, mentor junior engineers, and communicate with the chassis group and affiliates to investigate found issues.

What is the difference between Chassis Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectChassis EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or related fields; certifications like SAE or ASE beneficialBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; professional engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentAutomotive or vehicle manufacturing plants, R&D labsVarious industries including manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, R&D
Industry UsagePrimarily in automotive and vehicle designBroadly across multiple engineering sectors
Job FocusDesign, analysis, and testing of vehicle chassis and structural componentsDesign and analysis of mechanical systems, machinery, and devices

While both roles require mechanical engineering knowledge, a Chassis Engineer specializes in vehicle structures, whereas a Mechanical Engineer has a broader scope across various industries. The choice depends on your specific interest in automotive design versus general mechanical systems.

What cities in California are hiring for Chassis Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Chassis Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Chassis Engineer jobs in CA? For Chassis Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Chassis Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Temporary, 15% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,653 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Sr. Chassis Engineer - Investigation (North America Quality Center - NAQC)

Hyundai Motor Company

Irvine, CA • On-site

$115K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Senior Chassis Engineer - Investigation

Hyundai's North American Quality Center (NAQC) is looking for a Senior Chassis Engineer for the Chassis/Trim/Body Team.

The Team:

NAQC is the quality arm for Hyundai Motor Group (HMG)'s North American vehicle models. NAQC seeks to further Hyundai's goal of becoming the leading automotive manufacturer in North America by delivering uncompromising quality and exceeding consumer expectations. 


The Position:

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Chassis Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will focus on the continuous development and enhancement of the product quality and customer satisfaction of vehicles, specifically in the areas of Chassis System (+Trim/Body Systems).

What You Will Do
  • Investigate and support the testing of chassis quality issues in Hyundai, Genesis, or Kia vehicles by responding to requests from Hyundai Motor Group, sales affiliates, vehicle assembly plants, and in cases of sudden increases in warranty claims.
  • Knowledge of Chassis Fundamental (NVH, brake systems, fuel systems, HVAC systems, steering systems, suspension, etc.)
  • Knowledge of Interior/Exterior/Seat/Moving Fundamental (headlamp, seat, window motor, wiper, etc.)
  • Familiarity with LMS, thermal loggers, Vector CANalyzer, service manuals, and experience with shop equipment (e.g., tire balancer, chargers, lifts), along with knowledge of chassis engineering test equipment.
  • Conduct field or on-site investigations to collect both subjective and objective data, analyze the data to diagnose root causes, and validate the effectiveness of improvements.
  • Benchmark competitive vehicle designs, diagnostic procedures, and technical service bulletins (TSBs) to research differences and enhance our systems and materials.
  • Study various external indices (e.g., J.D. Power, Consumer Reports), customer forums, and other automotive syndicated studies to identify market trends and customer feedback.
  • Research, procure, and maintain new technologies, tools, and methods for data acquisition and analysis.
  • Manage schedules and coordinate with outsourced companies to ensure all deliverables are met according to contract requirements.
  • Assist vendors and address issues that may arise to maintain project schedules.
  • Create and present technical reports as assigned.
  • Must be a self-starter, capable of solving various problems with minimal supervision.
  • Mentor junior engineers on best practices and facilitate on-the-job learning.
  • Knowledge of Quality Assurance and Quality Control principles and practices.
What You Will Bring to the Role
  • Basic Qualifications
    • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
    • 7+ years of experience in QA/QC, Quality Improvement, or Vehicle Quality Investigation & Root Cause Analysis.
    • Superior verbal and written communication skills
    • Travel up to 30% of the time, both domestically and internationally.
    • Flexibility with travel (domestic and international) is required.
  • Preferred Qualifications
    • 5+ years experience in automotive engineering, with a strong preference for Chassis/Trim/Body experience.
    • Familiarity with vehicle instrumentation and data acquisition tools (such as LMS,  thermal logger, Vector CANalyzer, etc) is a plus
    • Project management experience
What Hyundai Can Offer You
  • Zero-dollar Employee Premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for You and Your Family
  • 100% Employer-paid Disability and Life Insurance
  • Generous Paid Time Off, Including Vacation, Sick, and Abundant Holidays
  • Range of Position: $115,000 ~ $155,000/Year
  • A Global Environment that Fosters Diversity
  • Retirement Savings and Planning Benefits
  • Access to Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts 
  • Flexible Work Hours
  • Fully On-Site Position
Other Details
  • Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
    • HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.