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Chief Automotive Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jost International

Chief Engineer MI

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

Jost International is a leading Tier 1 supplier in the automotive industry, specializing in ... We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Chief Engineer to lead a team in the design ...

Arconic

Chief Electrical Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

... the Chief Electrical Engineer will support. The incumbent will be required to act with a high ... advance the automotive, aerospace, commercial transportation, industrial and building and ...

Turing

Chief of Staff (CEO's Office)

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

In software engineering, Turing is the largest and longest-running data provider in the category ... automotive, and CPG to build and deploy end-to-end agentic AI systems inside mission-critical ...

kidder

Stationary Chief Building Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

Job Summary In partnership with the entire Asset Services Team, the Chief Building Engineer will ... Education * High School diploma or equivalent; valid driver's license, automobile liability ...

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Chief Automotive Engineer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do chief automotive engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief automotive engineer in the United States is $92,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief automotive engineer do?

A Chief Automotive Engineer oversees the design, development, and production of vehicles within an automotive company. They lead engineering teams, coordinate with other departments, and ensure that vehicles meet safety, quality, and performance standards. Their responsibilities also include managing budgets, setting project timelines, and staying informed about emerging automotive technologies and regulations. Ultimately, they play a key role in bringing innovative and reliable vehicles to market.

How does a chief automotive engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the vehicle development process?

A Chief Automotive Engineer plays a central role in coordinating efforts between design, production, quality assurance, procurement, and marketing teams throughout the vehicle development lifecycle. They facilitate regular meetings to ensure technical specifications align with project goals and customer expectations. Effective collaboration involves resolving technical challenges, integrating feedback from various departments, and maintaining open communication to keep the project on track. Their leadership ensures all teams work cohesively towards delivering innovative and reliable vehicles within budget and time constraints.

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

To thrive as a Chief Automotive Engineer, you need deep expertise in automotive engineering principles, project management, and a relevant engineering degree, often supported by advanced education or professional licensure. Familiarity with CAD software, vehicle simulation tools, and industry standards such as ISO/TS 16949 is typically required. Leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for directing teams and collaborating across departments. These abilities are essential for delivering innovative, high-quality vehicles while managing complex projects and meeting industry demands.

What is the difference between Chief Automotive Engineer vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectChief Automotive EngineerAutomotive Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Industrial Design Engineering
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in R&D, overseeing engineering teams, project managementDesign studios, CAD labs, collaboration with engineers and manufacturers
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, R&D centers, engineering firmsAutomotive manufacturers, design studios, consultancy firms

The Chief Automotive Engineer focuses on leading engineering projects, overseeing development, and ensuring technical standards. In contrast, the Automotive Design Engineer specializes in creating vehicle concepts, designing components, and working on the aesthetic and functional aspects of vehicle design. Both roles require engineering knowledge, but the Chief Automotive Engineer has a broader leadership and project management scope, while the Design Engineer concentrates on the creative and technical design process.

What are popular job titles related to Chief Automotive Engineer jobs?

For Chief Automotive Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Chief Automotive Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Chief Engineer MI

Grand Haven, MI • On-site

Jost International
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Jost Internationalexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead and mentor a team of engineers in the design, development, and implementation of complex landing gear and kingpin projects.

  • Oversee the planning, execution, and performance of engineering efforts, ensuring alignment with business goals and technical strategy/innovation.

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with product management, quality, manufacturing, and other stakeholders to define, scope, and prioritize technical requirements.

JOST International rating

4.5

Company rating: 4.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company: Jost International
Location: Grand Haven
Industry: Tier 1 Supplier - Commercial Trailer
Reporting: VP of Engineering
Department: Engineering
About the Company:
JOST International began as a small business in the early 1980s, where we submitted the patent application for the very first steel cast fifth wheel coupling. Since our start in Grand Haven, Michigan, JOST International has grown to become a world market leader for fifth wheels and landing gear and an international supplier for the commercial trucking industry.
Though we've grown through the years, JOST International is proud to retain the same values and principles that launched our business decades ago - a dedication to safety and continuous innovation, and above all, a close relationship with our customers and our employees.
Jost International is a leading Tier 1 supplier in the automotive industry, specializing in innovative solutions for the commercial truck, trailer, and agriculture markets. Our commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement has established us as a trusted partner to OEMs and major industry players.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Chief Engineer to lead a team in the design, development, and deployment of innovative engineering solutions. This role requires a strong technical background, proven leadership ability, and hands-on experience managing engineering projects from concept through execution. The ideal candidate is a collaborative problem solver who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about delivering high-quality products. This position will report to the Vice President of Engineering.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead and mentor a team of engineers in the design, development, and implementation of complex landing gear and kingpin projects. This includes but is not limited to electric controls, mechatronics and motor/gearbox design.
  • Oversee the planning, execution, and performance of engineering efforts, ensuring alignment with business goals and technical strategy/innovation.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with product management, quality, manufacturing, and other stakeholders to define, scope, and prioritize technical requirements.
  • Drive the design and development of systems and products, ensuring functionality, reliability, and scalability.
  • Support and direct validation efforts including test planning, execution, and correlation between field performance, test data, and analytical models.
  • Provide input to technical positions relative to key field/customer issues.
  • Act as a technical subject matter expert, staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies, and applying them appropriately.
  • Lead the development and maintenance of the organization's technical roadmap for landing gear and kingpin products
  • Participate in critical design reviews to ensure engineering excellence and adherence to best practices.
  • Support the professional development of team members through mentoring and coaching.
  • Selection, testing and validation of grease required for JOST products.
  • Responsible for ensuring product safety in design and manufacturing.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
  • Minimum of 8 years of experience in design and/or product engineering.
  • Demonstrated experience in manufacturing processes, material fatigue analysis, testing, and validation.
  • Proven ability to lead engineering teams and deliver results in a collaborative environment.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with product lifecycle management, design for manufacturability, and engineering change control is a plus.

Personal Attributes:
  • Results-oriented with a strong drive for excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders.
  • High level of integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards.
  • Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Familiarity with advanced simulation tools (e.g., FEA, CAE)
  • Understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements for Heavy Truck/Trailer products.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Professional development and career advancement opportunities.

Physical Requirements:
  • This is primarily a sedentary role within an office setting. While performing duties of this job, the employee will regularly; sit, stand, walk, reach, bend, twist and rarely will be required to stoop, kneel, lift or move objects of less than fifty pounds.

I will be given written work instructions on how I am to perform this job and I will be fully trained in this position according to those work instructions. I understand that if I fail to perform, I will be disciplined, leading up to and/or including termination of my employment.

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