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Entry Level Automotive Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baxter

Mainline Technician - Subaru of Olathe

Olathe, KS · On-site

... entry level up to general management), and an almost obsessive focus on the employee and guest ... Complete system diagnostics and full automotive troubleshooting and testing * Road-test vehicle to ...

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Entry Level Automotive Engineering information

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How much do entry level automotive engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level automotive engineering in the United States is $19.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Automotive Engineering vs Automotive Technician?

AspectEntry Level Automotive EngineeringAutomotive Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive EngineeringHigh school diploma or equivalent; ASE certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, engineering offices, research facilitiesRepair shops, service centers, dealerships
Industry UsageDesigning and developing automotive systems and componentsDiagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles

Entry Level Automotive Engineering focuses on designing and developing vehicle systems, requiring a degree in engineering. Automotive Technicians work directly on vehicle repairs and maintenance, often with certifications. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but differ in education, work environment, and job functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Automotive Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Automotive Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry standards like ISO/TS 16949 is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These skills and qualifications ensure you can contribute to vehicle design and development while collaborating efficiently within multidisciplinary teams.

What are entry level automotive engineers?

Entry level automotive engineers are professionals who have recently started their careers in the automotive engineering field. They typically hold a bachelor's degree in mechanical, automotive, or a related engineering discipline and work under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities often include assisting with the design, testing, and development of vehicles and automotive systems, as well as conducting research and troubleshooting issues. Entry level automotive engineers gain hands-on experience and knowledge to advance to more specialized or senior roles over time.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level automotive engineer expect to work on during their first year?

As an entry level automotive engineer, you can expect to be involved in a range of tasks such as assisting with vehicle component design, performing basic testing and analysis, and supporting senior engineers in troubleshooting mechanical or electronic systems. Early projects often include CAD modeling, preparing reports, and participating in prototype builds or validation testing. You'll frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality assurance, and suppliers, which provides valuable exposure to the full vehicle development process and helps build a strong foundation for future growth in the field.
More about Entry Level Automotive Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Automotive Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Automotive Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Automotive Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Automotive Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Automotive Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Automotive Engineering jobs are:
Entry Level Automotive Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Automotive Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,714 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Entry Level Mechanical Design Engineer

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Eden Prairie, MN

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will be located at our Eden Prairie, MN engineering headquarters.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Design Engineer

This individual would work within our electrical and product line teams on design, routing and integration of electrical wiring systems. Items include harness design, layout and mechanical integration. In addition to CAD physical modeling, there are the creation/layout of electrical wiring schematics and electrical sub-systems. RFA Engineering works with variety products across an array of equipment ranging from the Agricultural, Construction, Industrial Power, Power Sports, Lawn and Garden and others. This development effort may include integration design, routing, issue resolution, coordination with suppliers, and much more.

Responsibilities

  • Layout and design electrical wiring systems for various equipment via CAD.
  • Hands on experience within our prototype harness shop.
  • Test and validate harness designs.
  • Create full electrical schematics for mobile equipment.
  • Optimize electrical component selection to achieve cost targets and machine performance.
  • Work with suppliers and manufacturing to provide the specifications for production launch.
  • Work closely with vendors to optimize component selection

Requirements

  • Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automotive Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology or Associates with related electrical experience
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment

Desired Attributes

  • Knowledge of electrical components such as batteries, starters, alternators, rocker switches, relays, solenoids, sensors, actuators, and connectors.
  • Some knowledge of electrical wire harness circuits and routing.
  • Experience writing functional, performance, and durability requirements.
  • Experience working with suppliers in the application of electrical components.
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software
  • Familiarity with operating Construction, Forestry, or Ag off-road equipment a plus.

Pay Range: $60,000-$70,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Eden Prairie, MN, branch office in Dubuque, IA and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly