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Chassis Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Aptera Motors

Sr Engineer, Chassis

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

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 ...

Humble Robotics

Senior Chassis Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$118K - $160K/yr

Position Overview The Senior Chassis Engineer owns the architecture, design, and delivery of chassis systems for our autonomous heavy-duty electric vehicle platform. This is a high-impact role ...

Rivian

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 ...

Rivian

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 ...

Rivian

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 ...

Clayton Homes

Chassis

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$27/hr

The Welder will be a part of the Chassis department team. This position requires the ability to lift, push, pull 100+lbs on a continuous basis and the ability to stand, bend, reach overhead and wear ...

Clayton Homes

Chassis

Sacramento, CA

$27/hr

The Welder will be a part of the Chassis department team. This position requires the ability to lift, push, pull 100+lbs on a continuous basis and the ability to stand, bend, reach overhead and wear ...

PRIDE Industries

Certified Engineer

Indio, CA · On-site

$55.63/hr

Certified Engineer SRO Job Code: W50 - J2-Certified Engineer SRO FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Approval Date: May 2021 SUPERVISES: There are no direct reports with this position. POSITION SUMMARY: Under ...

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How much do chassis engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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 Chassis Engineers?

Chassis Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test the structural framework of vehicles, known as the chassis. They are responsible for ensuring that the chassis provides the necessary strength, durability, and performance while meeting safety and regulatory standards. Chassis Engineers work closely with other engineering teams to integrate suspension, steering, braking, and other systems into the vehicle's framework. Their work is critical in determining how a vehicle handles, its ride comfort, and overall safety.

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 the Job Description of 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.

More about Chassis Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Chassis Engineer jobs in California? For Chassis Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chassis Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Chassis Engineer jobs in California are:
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:
Chassis Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chassis Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,653 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
Sr Engineer, Chassis

Sr Engineer, Chassis

Aptera Motors

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Aptera Motors
is dedicated to building a future where every journey is powered by the sun. We specialize in creating solar electric vehicles that revolutionize the way we travel, providing sustainable and efficient transportation solutions.
Company Culture
is built on transparency, ethical treatment of one another, a bias for action, and leading by example.
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 for the Aptera solar electric products. This role will be responsible for the technical development, design, CAD modeling and management, engineering, suppliers and components manufacturing and implementation in production of the chassis system.
Focus is on the vehicle braking system, wheels and tires systems (specialist level), suspension, steering, chassis frame, and other related chassis components at a highly experienced / knowledgeable level. The Sr Engineer will work closely with engineers and fabricators to bring early-stage concepts to life and help refine designs for performance, manufacturability, assembly, and efficient production of the vehicle. The Sr Engineer will establish, develop, and verify the fundamentals (kinematics, dynamics, stability, braking, steering/cornering, ride, and comfort) of vehicle chassis functions and integration with other vehicle systems.
This role joins a hands-on team that transforms ideas into reality. Offering a collaborative company environment, exciting projects, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge prototypes that shape future products.
What you'll do
  • Design, develop, engineer the vehicle suspension system, steering system and braking system and full integration with controls and the other vehicle systems.
  • Coordinate, create and interpret engineering, CAD models, drawings, specifications as well as interface with suppliers and fabricators providing guidance for installation and in-house verbal instructions to execute builds. Create and manage BOM's and chassis documentation.
  • Perform analytical studies and calculations, simulations (in-house, or with outside suppliers) to set up the correct functionality of all vehicle chassis systems and components .
  • Work with suppliers on outsourcing and fabrication and manufacturing of the specific components.
  • Lead and collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing and Quality teams to set up the critical functional parameters, installation and control, and interface of the on the chassis systems with the rest of the vehicle.
  • Provide guidance and knowledge of chassis fundamentals with specific application to an advance and innovative 3-wheels vehicle.
  • Identify the key compliance and homologation requirements for the chassis system within overall vehicle prove-out process.
  • Create and lead the design and engineering documentation in accordance with the Company's systems and processes.

Qualifications
  • Experienced in chassis system design, development, engineering and specific manufacturing processes and assembly for road vehicles.
  • Very proficient and advanced skills in CAD modeling (CATIA V6/3DX), ability to read, model, interpret and operate CAD models, technical drawings, GD&T, and layout/packaging.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to precision craftsmanship.
  • Familiarity with typical chassis components materials and processes with applications to prototyping and production fabrication and assembly.
  • Very experienced and knowledgeable on chassis suspension, steering and barking systems for automotive and/or motorcycles.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Specialist in braking, wheels/tires systems and components; very knowledgeable of other chassis systems and components.
  • Experience with automotive, motorcycle and tri-cycle chassis systems for rod vehicles.
  • Knowledge and experience with chassis system and components calculations, simulations, kinematics, and dynamic behavior.
  • Experience with manufacturing and fabrication processes specific to chassis components: casting, forging, machining. stamping, extrusions, joining, welding, bonding.
  • Familiarity with series production processes and assembly as well as rapid prototyping techniques and additive manufacturing.

Team Structure
  • Individual contributor; collaborate with other teams and individuals, as necessary.

Required Experience
  • 5 to 7 years of experience in chassis engineering with applications on automotive, or motorcycles and 3-wheeled vehicles.

Educational Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Automotive or Manufacturing Engineering

Salary + Benefits
  • Market competitive compensation package
  • Stock option grants
  • Fully funded benefits package for employee + dependents
  • Generous Flexible Time Away policy

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