ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Crash Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optimal Inc.

Crash Test Technician-ATD

Superior, MI

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 ...

Optimal Inc.

Crash Test Technician-ATD

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

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 ...

MGA Research Corporation

Test Engineer - CA

Hughson, CA

$71K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

MGA Research Corporation

Test Engineer

Lincoln, AL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Plymouth, MI

$40.67 - $50.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$40.67 - $50.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 · On-site

$40.67 - $50.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

HITEC Sensors

Manufacturing Engineer

Huron, OH · On-site

$64K - $82K/yr

We engineer extraordinary safety, digital, and sensor solutions for critical environments to put ... We are the pioneers of crash test dummies and a leading provider of virtual simulation software ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTechnology JobsSoftware JobsSoftware Quality Engineer JobsCrash Test Engineer Jobs

Crash Test Engineer information

See salary details

$17

$44

$74

How much do crash test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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.

What is a crash test engineer?

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.

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 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 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.

Are crash test engineers in demand?

Crash test engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing safety regulations and advancements in vehicle technology. They typically work for automotive manufacturers, testing facilities, or safety organizations, requiring skills in data analysis, testing procedures, and familiarity with crash simulation tools.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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 - Build/Strip

Optimal Inc.

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Crash Test Technician - Build/StripJob 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 a automotive crash test technician to support our Pre-Test preparations and Post-Test teardown operations. We are looking for a hard-working automotive engineering test technician who is eager to use their skills to set up and tear down crash test vehicles. The ideal candidate would have a flexible and multi-faceted skillset to support a variety of testing conditions and requirementsReview test plan with engineers to understand load case preparation and post-test actionInstall test equipment and instrumentation used in automotive testing:Accelerometer, pressure sensor, voltage and current monitor installation.Proper Sensor cable routing for each impact test modeInterior/Exterior Trim disassembly and reassembly associated with installation.Accurate written and photographic records of all installed instrumentation.Prepare vehicle for testing (Pre-Test Operations) :Record "received" and "tested" details such as weight, tire size, installed restraints etc.Drain all fluids (coolant, oil, washer fluid, gas, refrigerant) and replace with non-flammable substitutes.Ballast vehicle to specified test weight.Use 3D Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM) for structural deformation measurements.Tape/target/paint vehicle to test specification.Replace or modify parts of prototypes such as airbags/restraint systems and structural componentsTear down of vehicle after test (Post-test Operations):Remove all instrumentation and drain non-flammable fluids.Use 3D CMM for post-test structural measurement.Preform post-test structural teardown as directed by test engineer including door/pillar skinning, interior trim removal, gas tank removal etc.Work cooperatively in a team environment with other technicians and engineers.Other Responsibilities:Fully document vehicle instruments and modifications in a database environment.Parts and equipment ordering.Maintain shop equipment and tools.Maintain a safe, clean, and organized shop environmentWhat You Will Bring to the RoleEducational Requirements:Minimum: High School DiplomaPreferred: Associate Degree in Automotive Technology field and/or experience in a crash/safety test facilityRelated Industry Experience Requirements:Technician I Level with 0 to 3 years Experience - R&D Test Preparation activities - Preferred/Ideal: previous experience in automotive safety testing (crash test, sled testing, dynamic impact component/system testing, etc)Required Skills and Knowledge:Experience working in automotive R&D testing environmentsExperience with disassembly and reassembly of interior and exterior vehicle components.General fabrication experience using TIG/MIG welders, plasma cutter, and handheld fabrication toolsExperience with soldering wires/electronicsVehicle diagnostic skills, reading codes, and troubleshooting vehicle warning lights.PC skills (Word, Excel and PowerPoint).Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate integrity and ethical behaviorAbility to multi-task and meet time constraints.Excellent Communication and writing skills.Excellent interpersonal relationship skills working in a culturally diverse environment.*Fully Onsite