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Crash Test Dummy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optimal Inc.

Crash Test Technician-ATD

Superior, MI · On-site

Prepare/Assemble ATD/Dummy (Pre-test Operations) * Review test plan with engineers to understand ATD/Dummy load case preparation and post-test action * Assemble crash test dummies to meet custom ...

Optimal Inc.

Crash Test Technician-ATD

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Prepare/Assemble ATD/Dummy (Pre-test Operations)Review test plan with engineers to understand ATD/Dummy load case preparation and post-test actionAssemble crash test dummies to meet custom build ...

eShocan

Sr. Occupant Safety Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

Perform system-level analysis to evaluate occupant injury metrics across multiple crash ... Ensure CAE models are updated with latest CAD data and aligned with physical test assumptions

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Crash Test Dummy information

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How much do crash test dummy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for crash test dummy in the United States is $30.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.40 and $32.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crash test dummy?

A Crash Test Dummy job typically refers to working with crash test dummies in vehicle safety testing rather than being a human test subject. Engineers and technicians use specialized dummies equipped with sensors to simulate real-world crash scenarios and measure impact forces. These tests help improve vehicle safety by analyzing crashworthiness and occupant protection. The role may involve setting up tests, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

What types of physical requirements or assessments are involved in becoming a crash test dummy?

Applicants for Crash Test Dummy positions must typically meet certain physical criteria, such as specific height, weight, and body proportions, to accurately represent different types of vehicle occupants during safety tests. Comprehensive health evaluations are often conducted to ensure candidates can safely perform the repetitive tasks and withstand the physical demands of the role. Individuals may undergo routine assessments to monitor their well-being and ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards. Working closely with engineers and safety specialists, crash test dummies provide vital data to improve automotive safety features and protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the crash test dummy position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crash Test Dummy, candidates must have excellent physical health, a strong understanding of safety protocols, and the ability to consistently follow detailed instructions, with many roles requiring specific height and weight parameters. Familiarity with automotive testing environments and safety equipment, as well as protocols set by organizations like NHTSA, is important. Reliability, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety are key soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities ensure consistent, accurate testing results while minimizing risks and maintaining the integrity of automotive safety research.

How much do crash test dummies get paid?

Crash test dummies are typically used in automotive safety testing and are not paid wages themselves; however, the technicians and engineers who conduct crash tests earn salaries that can range from $40,000 to over $80,000 annually depending on experience and location. These professionals often require knowledge of safety protocols, testing procedures, and may work in laboratory or testing facility environments.
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Crash Test Dummy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crash Test Dummy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,545 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Crash Test Technician-ATD

Optimal Inc.

Superior, MI • On-site

Contractor

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Crash Test Technician-ATD

Job Description:

Client is looking for a Build/Strip Crash Test Technician to join our Vehicle Safety Test Team and Crash Test Laboratory located in Superior Township, Michigan. The Vehicle Safety Test Team is part of the Vehicle Safety Integration Department which focuses on the physical crash testing and passive safety for all Motor Group products. We are currently looking for an automotive crash test technician to support and maintain our ATD/Crash Dummy fleet testing operations. We are looking for a hard-working automotive engineering test technician who is eager to use their skills to prepare, maintain, and seat our crash test dummies.

  • Prepare/Assemble ATD/Dummy (Pre-test Operations)
    • Review test plan with engineers to understand ATD/Dummy load case preparation and post-test action
    • Assemble crash test dummies to meet custom build level and instrumentation requests
    • Confirm sensor polarity and joint stiffness
    • Dummy Positioning within vehicle to various test protocols (FMVSS, US-NCAP, IIHS, Latin NCAP, etc)
    • Record final ATD/Dummy test position; Conduct 3D and Hand measurements of dummy
      • 3D Measurements taken by CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine or 3D Scanner)
    • Paint / Target ATD/Dummy body parts
  • Build-down/Disassemble ATD/Dummy (Post-test Operations):
    • Remove ATD/Dummy from crashed vehicle
    • Clean and initial inspection
    • Review post-test data anomalies and investigate/trouble shoot root cause of the problem
    • Disassemble dummies after testing is complete to perform post-test assessment
  • Continuous Monitoring and Maintenance of ATD/Dummy & Instrumentation
    • Inventory
    • Calibration schedule and records
    • Repair/Replacement status and records
  • Perform ATD/Dummy Part as well as Instrumentation repairs and replacements as necessary
  • Develop daily, weekly, and monthly work plans to achieve overall crash test schedule
  • Meet or exceed test demands of ATD/Dummy requests (dynamic environment)
  • Work cooperatively in a team environment with other technicians and engineers.
  • Other Responsibilities:
    • Fully document ATD/Dummy instruments and modifications in a database environment.
    • ATD/Dummy Parts, Equipment, and Instrumentation ordering
    • Maintain shop equipment and tools.
    • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized shop environment

What You Will Bring to the Role

  • Educational Requirements:
    • Minimum: High School Diploma
    • Preferred: Associate Degree in Automotive Technology field and/or experience in a crash/safety test facility
  • Related Industry Experience Requirements:
    • Technician I Level with 0 to 3 years of experience
  • Required Skills and Knowledge:
    • Preferred:
      • Experience working in automotive R&D testing environments
      • Strong Mechanical Aptitude. Comfortable in assembly/disassembly using basic hand tools
      • Strong Electrical Aptitude. Knowledge of basic DC electric properties, proficient with a DMM, and electrical repair skills such as soldering, desoldering, splicing, and schematic reading.
      • Diligent in documenting processes and procedures
      • Proficient troubleshooting skills
      • Proficient PC skills (MS365 Suite: Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel and PowerPoint).
      • Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate integrity and ethical behavior
      • Effectively manage multiple priorities, organize workload, and meet deadlines
      • Strong ability to follow oral and written instructions
      • Excellent communication and writing skills.
    • Ideal/Specialized:
      • Experience with ATD/Crash Dummy construction, assembly, disassembly, and seating procedures - H3-50M, H3-5F, SID-IIs, ES-2re, THOR-50M/5F, WorldSID-50M, Q-series
      • Experience with Data Acquisition Systems and ATD/Dummy Instrumentation - Data Acquisition Systems: DTS DataPRO (DTS: Diversified Technical Systems) - Instrumentation: Accelerometer, Load Cells (single & multi-axis), Potentiometers, etc
      • Experience troubleshooting and repairing ATD/Dummy & Instrumentation

* Fully Onsite

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