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Engine Building Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GM Performance Power Units

Engine Build Technician

Concord, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in engine building, a passion for motorsports, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic team-centric environment. Key Responsibilities * Assemble high ...

Ilmor Engineering

Race Engine Builder

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The ideal candidate has extensive experience building high-performance engines to exacting ... Maintain comprehensive engine build records, including component history, measurements, clearances ...

Dave's Complete Auto

Engine Builder

Centerville, UT

$60K - $100K/yr

As an Engine Builder, you will be responsible for assembly of engines, including cleaning ... Be filmed while building engines to continue to grow our social media, and keep the machine shop ...

Dave's Complete Auto

Engine Builder

Centerville, UT · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

As an Engine Builder, you will be responsible for assembly of engines, including cleaning ... Be filmed while building engines to continue to grow our social media, and keep the machine shop ...

Dave's Complete Auto

Engine Builder

Centerville, UT · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

As an Engine Builder, you will be responsible for assembly of engines, including cleaning ... Be filmed while building engines to continue to grow our social media, and keep the machine shop ...

Ilmor

Race Engine Builder

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The ideal candidate has extensive experience building high‑performance engines to exacting ... Maintain comprehensive engine build records, including component history, measurements, clearances ...

Dave's Complete Auto

Engine Builder

Centerville, UT · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

As an Engine Builder, you will be responsible for assembly of engines, including cleaning ... Be filmed while building engines to continue to grow our social media, and keep the machine shop ...

Vintage Motorcar Ltd

Shop Mechanic

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Duties performed include suspension and brake assembly, engine building, interior and upholstery install, vehicle trim install, wiring and electrical install. Air Cooled Engine and welding experience ...

REIC

Production Engine Technician

Troy, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Professional engine building experience or technical school experience building aircraft, turbine, diesel, racing, or industrial engines strongly preferred * Manufacturing or production assembly ...

Vintage Motorcar Ltd

Shop Mechanic

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Duties performed include suspension and brake assembly, engine building, interior and upholstery install, vehicle trim install, wiring and electrical install. Air Cooled Engine and welding experience ...

REIC

Production Engine Technician

Troy, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Professional engine building experience or technical school experience building aircraft, turbine, diesel, racing, or industrial engines strongly preferred * Manufacturing or production assembly ...

Burnout Brands

Engine Builder/Machinist

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Education and Experience * 2+ years of experience in engine building and/or machining, preferably in a performance environment. * Strong working knowledge of internal combustion engines and component ...

REIC

Production Engine Technician

Troy, MI

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Professional engine building experience or technical school experience building aircraft, turbine, diesel, racing, or industrial engines strongly preferred * Manufacturing or production assembly ...

Brubaker Performance

Be Seen First

Automotive Mechanic

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Head & Cam packages, DOD deletes, power adder, suspension, drivetrain, supercharger kit installation, custom LS engine building, crate engine swaps, dyno tuning and much more. We are looking to hire ...

Brubaker Performance

Be Seen First

Automotive Mechanic

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Head & Cam packages, DOD deletes, power adder, suspension, drivetrain, supercharger kit installation, custom LS engine building, crate engine swaps, dyno tuning and much more. We are looking to hire ...

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Engine Building information

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How much do engine building jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for engine building 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 are some common challenges engine builders face when working on custom or high-performance engines?

Engine builders working on custom or high-performance engines often encounter challenges such as sourcing rare or specialized components, ensuring precise tolerances during assembly, and troubleshooting unique performance issues. These roles require strong attention to detail and extensive knowledge of engine theory and mechanics. Collaboration with machinists, engineers, and sometimes clients is essential to meet specific performance goals and deadlines. Staying up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques is also important for success and career advancement.

What is the difference between Engine Building vs Engine Tuning?

AspectEngine BuildingEngine Tuning
CredentialsMechanical or automotive certifications, technical trainingSimilar certifications, focus on diagnostics and adjustments
Work EnvironmentWorkshop or garage, involves assembling and modifying enginesWorkshop or on-site, involves fine-tuning and optimizing engine performance
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturing, custom car builds, racingPerformance enhancement, repair shops, racing teams
Common Search/ComparisonEngine Building vs Engine Tuning

Engine Building involves assembling and constructing engines from components, focusing on durability and performance. Engine Tuning, on the other hand, optimizes existing engines for better performance, efficiency, or specific racing requirements. Both roles require technical skills and certifications but differ in scope and daily tasks.

How much do you get paid to build engines?

Engine builders typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, skill level, and location. Skilled professionals with certifications or specialized tools may earn higher wages, and some may work on commission or project-based pay in automotive or racing environments.

What is engine building?

Engine building is the process of assembling, modifying, or rebuilding an internal combustion engine. This involves selecting and fitting components such as pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, and cylinder heads to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Engine builders may work on engines for cars, motorcycles, boats, or other machinery, focusing on either restoring engines to factory specifications or enhancing them for greater power and efficiency. The process requires mechanical expertise, precision, and a thorough understanding of engine dynamics.

How to get a job as an engine builder?

To become an engine builder, gain experience through apprenticeships or technical training programs in automotive or mechanical fields. Developing skills in engine repair, assembly, and diagnostics, along with certifications such as ASE certification, can improve job prospects. Practical experience and knowledge of tools like engine hoists and diagnostic equipment are essential for employment in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engine Builder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engine Builder, you need in-depth mechanical knowledge, attention to detail, and experience with internal combustion engines, often supported by vocational training or certifications in automotive technology. Familiarity with specialized tools like torque wrenches, micrometers, diagnostic equipment, and engine management systems is crucial. Problem-solving abilities, manual dexterity, and strong organizational skills help engine builders excel in this role. These competencies ensure engines are assembled accurately and efficiently, resulting in reliable performance and customer satisfaction.

What careers build engines?

Engine building is a specialized career typically found in automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries. Professionals such as engine builders, machinists, and mechanical technicians use tools like lathes and CNC machines, often requiring technical training or certifications, to assemble and repair engines. These roles involve precision work and a strong understanding of mechanical systems.

What is someone who builds engines called?

Someone who builds engines is typically called an engine builder or engine assembler. They often work in automotive or industrial settings, using specialized tools and technical skills to assemble, repair, or modify engines. Certification or experience in mechanical work is common in this profession.
More about Engine Building jobs
What cities are hiring for Engine Building jobs? Cities with the most Engine Building job openings:
What states have the most Engine Building jobs? States with the most job openings for Engine Building jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Engine Building jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Engine Building jobs are:
Engine Building jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engine Building job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,925 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Engine Build Technician

GM Performance Power Units

Concord, NC • On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

GM Performance Power Units - Concord, NC
Engine Build Technician - Onsite
*This role may require international travel*
Job Summary
GM Performance Power Units is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Engine Build Technician to join our team in Concord, NC. This role involves assembling high-performance prototype and racing engines with precision and attention to detail. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in engine building, a passion for motorsports, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic team-centric environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assemble high-performance, prototype, and racing engines to exact specifications using hand tools, torque wrenches, and automated solutions.
  • Electronically record and track build data collected during the assembly process.
  • Conduct inspections and measurements of critical components using tools such as micrometers, calipers, and bore gauges.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace while adhering to environmental and safety standards.
  • Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to meet production timelines.
  • Adapt to changing work environments and competing demands while maintaining a high standard of quality.
  • Support alternative shift schedules, including weekends, as needed.

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 4 years of experience in high-performance or race engine building operations within prototype or production environments.
  • Proficiency with engine assembly tools and measuring devices (e.g., micrometers, calipers).
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to follow build assembly procedures and understand technical documentation.
  • Physical ability to perform tasks requiring standing, sitting, lifting up to 25 lbs., and using upper body strength for assembly processes.
  • Proficiency in project management and IT service management methodologies.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience working with 4-valve engine configurations.
  • Hands-on experience working with pneumatic valve spring systems.
  • Microsoft Office Suite experience.
  • Atlas Copco systems experience.

Success Factors
  • Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to precision.
  • Strong knowledge of tools, equipment, materials, and methods used in engine building.
  • Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills for effective collaboration across various organizational levels.
  • Innovative problem-solving skills with a customer-centric mindset.
  • Must be adaptable to a changing work environment and competing demands.

Ready to be part of a team that pushes boundaries both on and off the track? At GM Performance Power Units, we are developing a new era of performance for the Formula 1 grid. Joining us means entering a startup racing environment backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, giving you the rare opportunity to help build a world-class program from day one. We believe in rewarding innovation and powering potential. As part of our team, you'll benefit from a competitive and comprehensive package designed to support your performance, well-being, and future, helping you thrive at every level.
That includes access to:
  • Bonus scheme
  • Private healthcare
  • 401(k) plan including company match
  • Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage
  • 32 days annual leave (including holidays)
  • Free financial advisor access
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Subsidized on-site dining
  • On-site gym
  • Discounted GM vehicle purchase/lease program
  • Free on-site EV charging for personal GM vehicles

It's all part of our commitment to creating a workplace that's as high-performing and forward-thinking as the people who make it succeed.
Join us and help power what's next.
Why Join Us
You'll play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and performance of a next-generation Formula 1 power unit. Our culture rewards precision, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of performance.
Please note: GM Performance Power Units and all affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity employer(s). Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information regarding the EEOC, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/poster_screen_reader_optimized.pdf.
Only direct hires need apply to or inquire about job postings at GM Performance Power Units. We are not accepting calls, resumes or applications from recruiting firms at this time.

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