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Crash Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MGA Research Corporation

Test Engineer - CA

Hughson, CA

$71K/yr

From testing individual components within a vehicle to full scale vehicle crash tests, you have the ... Engineering Responsibilities Daily roles include customer interaction, high-level problem solving ...

Be Additive

Vehicle Safety Test Engineer

Newark, CA · On-site

Vehicle Safety Test Engineer This position will primarily be onsite in Newark with a potential to ... This team focuses on all vehicle safety and crash testing and meet all safety and consumer ...

MGA Research Corporation

Test Engineer

Lincoln, AL

Execute vehicle crash, sled, airbag, or other component tests and report technical results in a ... General business and/or engineering sales Qualifications and Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in ...

Rivian

Sr. Safety Test Technician

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$40.67 - $50.84/hr

Collaborate directly with Test Engineers to execute full-vehicle crash tests, sled testing, and component-level safety evaluations. * Support the installation, extraction, and shipment of critical ...

Rivian

Sr. Safety Test Technician

Buffalo, NY

$40.67 - $50.84/hr

Collaborate directly with Test Engineers to execute full-vehicle crash tests, sled testing, and component-level safety evaluations. * Support the installation, extraction, and shipment of critical ...

Slate Auto

Principal Vehicle Safety Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$123K - $185K/yr

Experience planning and executing quasi-static and dynamic crash tests * Ability to interpret test ... Mentor junior engineers and influence cross-functional decisions to prioritize safety * Engage with ...

Recar

PrincipalVehicle Safety Engineer

Troy, MI

$123K - $185K/yr

Experience planning and executing quasi-static and dynamic crash tests * Ability to interpret test ... Mentor junior engineers and influence cross-functional decisions to prioritize safety * Engage with ...

HITEC Sensors

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Huron, OH · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

We engineer extraordinary safety, digital, and sensor solutions for critical environments to put humans at the heart of industrial design. We are the pioneers of crash test dummies and a leading ...

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Crash Test Engineer information

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How much do crash test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for crash test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do car crash testers make?

Crash test engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working for major automotive companies can earn higher salaries. Skills in data analysis, safety testing, and familiarity with testing equipment are important in this role.

What is the difference between Crash Test Engineer vs Vehicle Safety Engineer?

AspectCrash Test EngineerVehicle Safety Engineer
CertificationsOften requires engineering degrees, safety certifications, and specialized training in crash testingSimilar certifications, with additional focus on safety standards and compliance
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crash test facilities, and testing sitesDesign offices, testing labs, and regulatory compliance settings
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, testing agencies, and safety organizationsAutomotive companies, safety regulatory bodies, and R&D departments

Crash Test Engineers focus on conducting physical crash tests and analyzing impact data, while Vehicle Safety Engineers work on designing and improving vehicle safety features based on test results. Both roles require similar qualifications but differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Crash Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crash Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with safety standards, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with computer-aided design (CAD) software, data acquisition systems, and crash simulation tools is essential, as is familiarity with industry certifications such as ISTQB or SAE standards. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help set standout professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure accurate testing, compliance with safety regulations, and the development of safer vehicles for consumers.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Crash Test Engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within automotive safety or engineering management. Most crash test engineers earn between $70,000 and $120,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer, with higher salaries possible for senior or lead positions.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Crash Test Engineers can enter the field at any age, as the role values relevant skills, experience, and certifications. Many engineers start or transition careers later in life, and age is generally not a barrier if you have the necessary technical knowledge and training in areas like safety testing, CAD software, or vehicle dynamics.

How do Crash Test Engineers typically collaborate with other teams during vehicle safety testing?

Crash Test Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including design engineers, data analysts, and safety compliance specialists, to plan and execute crash simulations. They are responsible for coordinating with technicians to set up test vehicles and instrumentation, and they share results with R&D and regulatory teams to refine vehicle safety features. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as crash test data directly informs design modifications and compliance strategies. This collaborative process ensures that safety standards are met and innovative solutions are developed to enhance occupant protection.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior crash test engineers or automotive safety engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in senior management or consulting roles within the automotive industry. High compensation often reflects expertise in crash testing, safety standards, and the use of advanced testing equipment.

What are crash test engineers?

Crash test engineers are specialized professionals who design, conduct, and analyze vehicle crash tests to evaluate automotive safety. They work with advanced equipment and computer simulations to study how vehicles perform in collisions, ensuring they meet safety regulations and protect passengers. Their work helps manufacturers improve vehicle designs, develop new safety features, and comply with government safety standards. Crash test engineers often collaborate with other engineers, regulatory agencies, and automotive companies.
More about Crash Test Engineer jobs
What states have the most Crash Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Crash Test Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Crash Test Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Crash Test Engineer jobs are:
Crash Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crash Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Crash Test Technician - Entry Level

MGA Research Corporation

Burlington, WI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Work with engineers and other team members to follow test plans and provide technical assistance.

  • Use established procedures to conduct vehicle testing, including taking photos, taking measurements, gathering data, and configuring tests.

  • Install instrumentation, test gear, and assorted components, aligning with engineering specifications, standards, and test protocols.

Job description

Crash Test Technician (Burlington, WI)
MGA Research Corporation is a renowned independent provider of testing services and equipment for the automotive, aerospace, and energy storage industries. With nine strategic locations across the US and Canada, MGA has established a strong reputation for delivering superior testing capabilities and unwavering customer service.
MGA Research Corporation is seeking a skilled and motivated full-time Crash Test Technician to join our dynamic team. The Crash Test Technician will play a pivotal role in maintaining efficient operations, supporting client interactions, and contributing to the success of our diverse projects.
Job Duties And Responsibilities
  • Work with engineers and other team members to follow test plans and provide technical assistance.
  • Use established procedures to conduct vehicle testing, including taking photos, taking measurements, gathering data, and configuring tests.
  • Install instrumentation, test gear, and assorted components, aligning with engineering specifications, standards, and test protocols.
  • Identify and diagnose technical issues or abnormalities during testing and take corrective actions to address them.
  • Maintain comprehensive records documenting all performed work.

Requirements And Skills
  • It is critical to have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record
  • Minimum of high school/GED required
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic and constantly changing environment
  • Keen attention to detail, coupled with a strong ability to identify errors
  • Proficiency with MS Office including Word, Excel and Outlook

Benefits 
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid sick/vacation/holiday
  • Yearly discretionary bonuses, profit-sharing, and raises
  • 401k matching 
  • Tuition reimbursement while employed at MGA

We aim to continue our mission in providing quality services to our customers as we seek to expand our team while contributing to the exciting world of testing.
MGA Research is an equal opportunity employer.
 

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