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Engine Building Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

Software Engineering Manager, Engine UI

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$293K - $343K/yr

At Roblox, we're building the tools and platform that empower our community to bring any experience ... Lead the development on our C++ engine code that powers the foundational UI features in the world ...

Actalent

Engine Technician

Pontiac, MI

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Serve as a pallet build technician by building engines onto specialized pallet systems, adding components and instrumentation to create complete engine test assemblies. * Prepare raw engines by ...

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How much do engine building jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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.

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, and develop skills in engine repair, diagnostics, and assembly. Certifications such as ASE certification can improve job prospects, and hands-on experience with engine components and tools is essential for employment in this role.

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.

How much do car engine builders make?

Car engine builders typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Skilled engine builders with certifications and specialized tools can earn higher wages, especially in custom or high-performance shops.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In engine building or related high-skill trades, jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically involve specialized skills, such as custom engine fabrication, high-performance tuning, or working as a freelance mechanic for luxury or racing vehicles. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications, and a strong reputation, and they may involve project-based or contract work with variable schedules.

What is someone who builds engines called?

Someone who builds engines is called an engine builder or engine assembler. They typically work in automotive or industrial settings, using specialized tools and technical skills to assemble, repair, or rebuild engines. Certification or experience in mechanical work is often required for this role.
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Engine Building jobs near you
Propulsion Technician II, First Shift

Propulsion Technician II, First Shift

Relativity Space

Long Beach, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

About the Team: 

The engine manufacturing department's mission is to product high performing products & manufacturing systems by continuously innovating on cost, quality, and lead time. Through cross-functional collaboration, high levels of accountability, and a focus on safety we support the Terran R program. We are responsible for providing design feedback on new hardware iterations, developing new manufacturing methods and systems, and ultimately building engine and vehicle hardware for testing prior to our first launch. Our team's highlights from the last 6 months include the MDC of the first Aeon-R engine, completing thousands of hours of PBF printing, building and testing over 50 valves of 26 different iterations, and implementing large scale process improvements along the way.

About the Role:

As a Propulsion Technician, you will be on the front line of the assembly and testing of the Aeon-R engine components, sub-assemblies and engines. This is a unique opportunity to be a part of an experienced technical team and build the skills necessary to create and refine robust component and engine building processes. This role will be focused on supporting several in-house processes and support resources such as precision cleaning, hydrostatic proof testing, flow testing, component assembly and test, and engine assembly.

About You:

  • Experience working on engines, with a primary focus on engine components.
  • Familiarity with architecture of a Gas Generator cycle engine and all associated nomenclature.
  • Experience with high pressure fluid system development and testing such as hydrostatic proof, pneumatic leak check, and flow testing.
  • Familiarity with electrical and mechanical system integration.
  • Ability to read and interpret work instructions, and engineering drawings.
  • Strong technical and interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.

Nice to haves but not required:  

  • Familiarity with 5S manufacturing principles.
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles.
  • Experience transitioning from development into high-volume production.

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