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Combustion Engine Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Combustion Devices Engineer II

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Vast is looking for a Combustion Devices Engineer II , reporting to the Senior Manager of E-2 ... engine development samples. You will be a key member who will help complete the flight engine ...

LiquidPiston

Chief Engineer

Suffield, CT · On-site

... engine development programs or complex mechanical systems. * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (MS or PhD strongly preferred). * Deep expertise in combustion engines ...

Vast

Combustion Devices Engineer II

Hawthorne, CA

Vast is looking for a Combustion Devices Engineer II , reporting to the Senior Manager of E-2 ... engine development samples. You will be a key member who will help complete the flight engine ...

Vast

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA

$86K - $120K/yr

... combustion engine. * Plan and lead hazardous operations including work with high pressures and cryogenic fluids. * Assist in driving engine development, qualification, and acceptance test campaigns ...

ROUSH

Calibration Engineer II

Livonia, MI · On-site

Perform hot climate, cold climate, and high-altitude development testing to meet customer objectives * Calibrate all aspects of internal combustion engine (ICE) function, including electronic ...

Reliance One

Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

... in internal combustion engine design and development to support an industry-leading automotive manufacturer. This role is ideal for an engineer with hands-on engine experience who enjoys ...

ROUSH

Calibration Engineer II

Livonia, MI · On-site

Perform hot climate, cold climate, and high-altitude development testing to meet customer objectives * Calibrate all aspects of internal combustion engine (ICE) function, including electronic ...

Roush

Calibration Engineer II

Livonia, MI

Perform hot climate, cold climate, and high-altitude development testing to meet customer objectives * Calibrate all aspects of internal combustion engine (ICE) function, including electronic ...

Roush

Calibration Engineer II

Livonia, MI

Perform hot climate, cold climate, and high-altitude development testing to meet customer objectives * Calibrate all aspects of internal combustion engine (ICE) function, including electronic ...

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Combustion Engine Development information

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How much do combustion engine development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for combustion engine development in the United States is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Combustion Engine Development vs Internal Combustion Engine Design?

AspectCombustion Engine DevelopmentInternal Combustion Engine Design
CredentialsMechanical Engineering degree, certifications in engine testingMechanical Engineering degree, certifications in CAD and engine analysis
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, testing facilities, manufacturing plantsDesign studios, CAD labs, prototype workshops
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, power generationAutomotive, small engine manufacturing, research institutions

Combustion Engine Development focuses on the entire process of creating and testing engines, including prototyping and performance evaluation. Internal Combustion Engine Design primarily involves designing engine components and systems using CAD tools. While both roles require mechanical engineering expertise, development emphasizes testing and validation, whereas design centers on creating efficient engine layouts.

What is combustion engine development?

Combustion engine development refers to the process of designing, testing, and improving internal combustion engines, which are commonly used in vehicles, machinery, and power generation. This field involves optimizing engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions by working on components such as pistons, cylinders, fuel systems, and exhaust systems. Engineers in this area use advanced simulation tools, prototype testing, and data analysis to ensure engines meet regulatory and performance standards. The work also includes adapting engines to new fuels and integrating advanced technologies to reduce environmental impact.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In combustion engine development, senior engineers, lead engineers, and engineering managers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles often require expertise in thermodynamics, CAD tools, and project management, and are typically found in large automotive or aerospace companies. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual qualifications.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in Combustion Engine Development, and how are they addressed within the team?

Professionals in Combustion Engine Development often encounter challenges such as meeting strict emissions regulations, optimizing fuel efficiency, and integrating new technologies. These challenges are typically addressed through close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including design engineers, software specialists, and testing personnel. Regular team meetings, data-driven problem solving, and iterative prototyping help ensure innovative solutions and compliance with industry standards. Additionally, professionals are encouraged to stay current with evolving technologies and regulatory requirements to remain competitive in this dynamic field.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Mechanical engineers working in specialized fields such as combustion engine development can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-paying industries or locations. Achieving this salary often requires advanced degrees, professional certifications, and leadership roles. Entry-level salaries are typically lower, but senior engineers or those in managerial positions may reach or exceed this income level.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

In the field of combustion engine development, senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in leadership roles or within high-paying industries like aerospace or automotive manufacturing. Achieving this level often requires expertise in thermodynamics, control systems, and proficiency with engineering software, along with a strong track record of innovation and project management.

How much do combustion engineers make?

Combustion engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in engine design or emissions control can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Combustion Engine Development, and why are they important?

Success in Combustion Engine Development requires a strong background in mechanical or automotive engineering, thermodynamics, and internal combustion theory, typically backed by a relevant degree. Proficiency with CAD software, engine simulation tools, and emissions testing systems is commonly expected, along with experience in industry-standard certifications like Six Sigma or ISO standards. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for innovating efficient engines, meeting regulatory standards, and ensuring reliable performance in a highly technical and collaborative environment.
More about Combustion Engine Development jobs
What states have the most Combustion Engine Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Combustion Engine Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Combustion Engine Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Combustion Engine Development jobs are:
Combustion Engine Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Combustion Engine Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 89% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, 1% Nights, and 6% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,925 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Combustion Devices Engineer II

Combustion Devices Engineer II

Vast

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

At Vast, our mission is to contribute to a future where billions of people are living and thriving in space. Vast is developing next-generation space stations to ensure a continuous human presence in space for America and its allies, enabling advanced microgravity research and manufacturing, and unlocking a new space economy for government, corporate, and private customers. Using an incremental, hardware-rich and low-cost approach, Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station. Haven Demo's 2025 success made Vast the only operational commercial space station company to fly and operate its own spacecraft. Next, Haven-1 is expected to become the world's first commercial space station when it launches, followed by additional Haven modules to enable permanent human presence by 2030. Our team is all-in, committed to executing our mission safely and on time. If you want to work with the most talented people on Earth furthering space exploration for humanity, come join us.
Vast is looking for a Combustion Devices Engineer II, reporting to the Senior Manager of E-2 Engineering, to create the world's highest performing engine for small launchers, while optimizing for production and low cost. In this role, you will join a team with exciting momentum that has produced and successfully tested fully integrated engine development samples. You will be a key member who will help complete the flight engine design and transition the system from development to production.
You will contribute expertise toward creating the world's highest-performing engine for small launchers while optimizing for production and low cost. In this role, you will join a team with exciting momentum that has produced and successfully tested fully integrated engine development samples. You will be a key member who will help complete the flight engine design and transition the system from development to production.
This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Hawthorne location.
Responsibilities:
  • Design: work with our team and Chief Engineer to advance the design of E-2. Create models and drawings of parts and assemblies. Perform calculations and analyses with team support.
  • Manufacturing: work with our internal manufacturing team to create finished E-2 parts. Support parts through 3d-printing, machining, post processing, and inspection. Incorporate feedback to improve design for manufacturing.
  • Assembly and test: support our integration team with propulsion component assembly build and testing.
  • Create schematics and document processes.
  • Participate in engine testing with our test team and support with troubleshooting as needed.
  • Communicate effectively with entire team to regularly provide updates on progress and issues.
  • Always follow proper safety procedures and wear personal protective equipment in the workplace.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline.
  • 3+ years of experience with mechanical design, development, fabrication, assembly, or test (internships included)

Preferred Skills & Experience:
  • Ability to work as a teammate and independently to achieve ambitious goals
  • Hands-on engineering (Full-stack: computer to wrench to broom)
  • Communication (Written, visual, slides)
  • CAD (NX preferred)
  • Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Problem-solving
  • Capable to grow positive, respectful, and professional relationships
  • Willing to make mistakes, take responsibilities, work independently and be transparent about your work
  • ANSYS
  • MATLAB

Additional Requirements:
  • Able to lift 25 lbs unassisted.
  • Work in an outdoor environment exposed to extreme weather conditions.
  • Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones.

Pay Range: California
$110,000-$155,000 USD
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Base salary will vary depending on job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, business needs, and market demand. Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package. Full-time employees also receive company equity, as well as access to a full suite of compelling benefits and perks, including: medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, generous paid time off; up to 20+ days of vacation for exempt staff and up to 10+ days of vacation for non-exempt staff with the ability to cash-out unused vacation annually, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, ClassPass credits, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, and other discounts and perks. We also take pride in offering exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee & onsite barista, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge, and lunch subsidized as part of Vast's ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees.
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUSThe person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. This status includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Vast is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vast is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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