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Director Automotive Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Vehicle Engineer

Happy Valley, OR

$35 - $40/hr

Vehicle/Automotive Engineer We are seeking a Vehicle Engineer to join our team in support of the ... You will make a direct impact on vehicle quality, build accuracy, and program success. We prefer ...

Actalent

Vehicle Engineer

Happy Valley, OR

$35 - $40/hr

Vehicle/Automotive Engineer We are seeking a Vehicle Engineer to join our team in support of the ... You will make a direct impact on vehicle quality, build accuracy, and program success. We prefer ...

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All JobsAutomotive Engineer JobsDirector Automotive Engineer Jobs

Director Automotive Engineer information

See salary details

$73K

$194.7K

$254K

How much do director automotive engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for director automotive engineer in the United States is $194,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,500.00 and $253,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Director Automotive Engineer vs Automotive Engineer?

AspectDirector Automotive EngineerAutomotive Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire automotive engineering projects, manages teams, sets strategic goalsDesigns, develops, and tests vehicle components and systems
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; extensive experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in R&D departments, corporate offices, or manufacturing plantsDesign labs, testing facilities, manufacturing sites

The main difference is that a Director Automotive Engineer focuses on strategic leadership, project management, and overseeing teams, while an Automotive Engineer is involved in the hands-on design and development of vehicle systems. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the director position emphasizes management and strategic planning.

More about Director Automotive Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Automotive Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Director Automotive Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Director Automotive Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Automotive Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Automotive Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Automotive Engineer jobs are:
Director Automotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Automotive Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $194,709 per year, or $93.6 per hour.

Senior Automotive Engineer

Top Dog Engineers

Detroit Lakes, MN • On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Senior Automotive Engineer – Automotive, Stamping and Assembly
  • Location: Michigan
  • $150k - $175k – Sign On Bonus for a Rock Star! - $600/month car allowance - 10%-15% annual bonus and more....  
 
Join a Growing Automotive, Tier 1 Products Manufacturer!
 
We’re looking for a Senior Automotive Engineer with Stamping, Cold Forming and In-Press Fastener Experience.  Extrusion Experience a Real Plus!!  Excellent Company, Pay and Benefits.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead design and manufacturing efforts for stamped metal & aluminum parts.
  • Supports RFQ, lead technical discussions, cost modeling, stamping design.
  • Collaborate with customers, engineering, and production teams.
  • Manage and grow key accounts through proactive communications.
  • Participate in PPAP, APQP, launch programs and technical reviews.
  • Conduct root cause analysis and drive corrective actions.
  • Support prototype builds and product launches (NPI).
  • Champion ISO9001/2015/TS16949 systems and continuous improvement.
  • Manage directs and quality technicians and operations staffing accordingly for successful program launch.
  • Representing the company at customer visits, technical reviews, and industry shows.
 
Requirements:
  • BS Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science or a related technical field, equivalent industry experience will be accepted.
  • Direct experience in cold forming, cold heading, metal extrusions and automotive fastener solutions are preferred.
  • Automotive experience Preferred with PPAP, APQP, AIAG, IATF16949, Stamping Die’s, Fastener Assembly Process.
  • Full understanding in FMEA, control plans, inspection methods.
  • Strong communication, analysis, and problem-solving skills.
  • MUST HAVE previous experience in Metal Stamping and Assembly in OEM or Tier 1 Automotive.
 
Preferred Requirements:
  • Experience with Automotive OEM’s and / or Major Tier 1 Automotive Suppliers.
  • Detailed and In-Depth understanding of fastener performance, applications engineering and in-press forming.
  • Proven Track Record and Abilit to influence customers design decisions and strategies with cost reduction methods.
 
Perks:
  • Bonus – 10% - 15%.
  • Car Allowance - $600/month.
  • Full medical, dental, vision coverage.
  • 401k match, PTO, paid holidays.
  • Minimal travel + lifestyle perks.
  • Relocation Assistance.
  • Excellent growth & promotion potential.
  • Sponsorship will not be considered.
 
Join a high-growth company where innovation, quality, and leadership are valued!
Call Top Dog Engineers: 601.607.8217.