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Chassis Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ford Motor Company

Senior Chassis Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA · Hybrid

$135K - $226K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or equivalent combination of ... chassis system from concept to production Strong working knowledge of all chassis systems and ...

Rivian

Sr. Design for Reliability Engineer, Chassis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$146K - $183K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum requirement is a Bachelor of Science in an engineering discipline or equivalent. Preferably one or more years of industry experience in a reliability engineering role. Level of Role depends ...

Rivian

Sr. Design for Reliability Engineer, Chassis

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$146K - $183K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum requirement is a Bachelor of Science in an engineering discipline or equivalent. Preferably one or more years of industry experience in a reliability engineering role. Level of Role depends ...

Rivian

Sr. Design for Reliability Engineer, Chassis

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$146K - $183K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum requirement is a Bachelor of Science in an engineering discipline or equivalent. Preferably one or more years of industry experience in a reliability engineering role. Level of Role depends ...

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All JobsChassis Engineering JobsChassis Engineering Jobs in California

Chassis Engineering information

See California salary details

$20

$52

$98

How much do chassis engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for chassis engineering 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 is chassis engineering?

Chassis engineering is the field of engineering focused on designing, developing, and testing the structural framework of vehicles, commonly referred to as the chassis. This includes components such as the frame, suspension, steering, and braking systems, all of which are critical for vehicle stability, safety, and handling. Chassis engineers work to optimize these systems for performance, durability, and compliance with safety regulations, often collaborating with other automotive engineering disciplines. Their work is essential in ensuring a vehicle's ride quality, handling characteristics, and overall structural integrity.

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, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), FEA tools, and industry standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure safe, innovative, and cost-effective chassis designs that meet performance and regulatory requirements.

What are some typical challenges chassis engineers face when working on new vehicle models?

Chassis Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing performance, safety, cost, and manufacturability when developing new vehicle models. They must collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, such as suspension, body, and electronics engineers, to ensure all components integrate seamlessly while meeting strict regulatory and performance standards. Additionally, adapting to rapidly evolving technology, such as electric vehicle platforms and lightweight materials, requires continuous learning and innovation. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming these complexities and delivering successful chassis designs.

What is the difference between Chassis Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectChassis EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, certifications in CAD and vehicle systemsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, often with additional certifications in CAD and design
Work EnvironmentAutomotive or vehicle manufacturing plants, design labsFactories, design offices, research labs across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in automotive, motorsport, and vehicle designBroad industry application including aerospace, manufacturing, robotics

Chassis Engineering focuses specifically on designing and developing vehicle frames and structures, often within the automotive industry. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of engineering disciplines, including vehicle design, but also extends to machinery, aerospace, and manufacturing. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Chassis Engineering is specialized in vehicle frameworks, making it a more targeted career path for those interested in automotive structural design.

What does a chassis engineer do?

A chassis engineer designs, analyzes, and tests vehicle chassis components to ensure safety, performance, and durability. They use CAD software and testing tools to develop and improve structural frameworks, often collaborating with other engineering teams and adhering to industry standards. Their work involves understanding vehicle dynamics, materials, and manufacturing processes.

What are popular job titles related to Chassis Engineering jobs in California?

For Chassis Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chassis Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Chassis Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Chassis Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chassis Engineering job openings:

Chassis Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chassis Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,653 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Senior Chassis Engineer - Actuators, Brakes, & Steering

Zoox

Foster City, CA • On-site

$187K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

At Zoox, you will collaborate with a world-class, multidisciplinary engineering team spanning AI, robotics, mechatronics, computer vision, and automated testing. Because a robot is in control of the vehicle, you will be constantly challenged to rethink traditional engineering paradigms to design elegant, ultra-efficient hardware systems from the ground up. Working in this agile, forward-thinking environment gives you the unique opportunity to manifest your creativity, push the boundaries of vehicle dynamics, and directly shape the future of autonomous mobility.
As an engineer on the Chassis Actuator team specializing in Braking and Steering Systems, you will hold end-to-end design and release responsibility for the components powering our innovative autonomous by-wire platform. Sitting at the intersection of hardware and software, you will lead the development, execution, and delivery of critical engineering milestones for an active chassis system.
You will manage Tier 1 supplier relationships to deliver high-performance hardware and controls software while aggressively meeting cost, weight, timing, and performance targets. Your scope will span from core component development to system integration support and hands-on vehicle-level testing and CAN signal analysis. Working in a highly cross-functional environment, you will bridge the gap between physical hardware and autonomous execution, collaborating daily with Vehicle Integration, Functional Safety, Firmware, and Validation teams to bring our next-generation vehicle to life.
In this role, you will:
  • Own the product lifecycle of the Zoox robotaxi brake and steer-by-wire system from initial concept through production, managing the development of mechanical hardware, software, and complex electromechanical systems.
  • Design and release 3D CAD models and 2D drawings with appropriate GD&T for both internal fabrication and external supplier production.
  • Define and manage comprehensive component and system requirements, encompassing mechanical, electrical, NVH, static and dynamic loading, mass, and thermal-mechanical or electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) domains, to guarantee robust performance and integration of the braking or steering system.
  • Lead component testing and characterization, which includes developing innovative testing methodologies, analyzing complex data, and validating system integrity.
  • Manage strategic supplier engagements to co-develop component designs, review engineering documentation, and ensure on-time delivery of critical hardware and software.
  • Partner with cross-functional Zoox teams, including Packaging, Manufacturing, Assembly, and Service, to support the seamless integration, bring-up, and operation of the vehicle.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary experts in AI, Mechatronics, Computer Vision, and Robotics to unlock and leverage the unique capabilities of the Zoox autonomous robotaxi platform.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with 6+ years of industry experience.
  • Proven track record of designing and releasing complex components using advanced 3D CAD tools (ideally CATIA V5/V6 or 3DX) and authoring 2D production drawings utilizing ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards.
  • Experience developing hydraulic brake actuation systems, steer-by-wire (SbW), or electric power steering (EPS) systems and managing brake or steering controls development timelines at an automotive OEM or large Tier 1 supplier.
  • Deep technical understanding of hydraulic systems, friction materials, electromechanical actuators, brushless DC motors, precision gear systems, electrical integration, safety-critical system architecture, NVH mitigation, functional safety, and mass target management.
  • Demonstrated experience authoring technical requirements and executing validation test plans across component, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), and full-vehicle test assets.
  • Strong familiarity with automotive product development processes (e.g., APQP, phase-gate reviews) and a proven ability to manage long-term engineering schedules and deliverables.

Bonus Qualifications:
  • Masters or Ph.D. a plus
  • CAN & Network skills
  • Vector CANalyzer/CANoe, dSPACE experience
  • Polarion, Jira, and Confluence experience

$187,000 - $225,000 a year
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.
Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
About Zoox
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We're looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
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Accommodations
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to [email protected] or your assigned recruiter.
A Final Note:
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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