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Entry Level Innovation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The firm has a 50+ year history of leveraging new technologies to drive innovation and bring unique ... We are seeking candidates to fill the position of Entry-level Civil Engineer for our Municipal team ...

The firm has a 50+ year history of leveraging new technologies to drive innovation and bring unique ... We are seeking candidates to fill the position of Entry-level Civil Engineer for our Municipal team ...

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Firm Overview Do more than just build! At dbHMS, we are ... Together with our clients, we are dedicated to leaving a legacy of stewardship and innovation ...

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Entry Level Innovation Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do entry level innovation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level innovation engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Innovation Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving, and creative thinking, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and innovation management platforms is often expected. Strong collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication help you contribute fresh ideas and work well within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for driving innovation and delivering practical solutions that meet organizational goals.

What is the difference between Entry Level Innovation Engineer vs Entry Level Product Development Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Innovation EngineerEntry Level Product Development Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Innovation, or related field; basic knowledge of R&D processesBachelor's in Engineering, Product Design, or related field; understanding of product lifecycle
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, innovation teamsDesign studios, manufacturing units, product teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, R&D firmsConsumer electronics, automotive, industrial products

While both roles involve engineering fundamentals, Entry Level Innovation Engineers focus on developing new ideas and innovative solutions, often within R&D teams. Entry Level Product Development Engineers concentrate on designing and improving specific products throughout their lifecycle. The roles overlap in technical skills but differ in their primary focus: innovation versus product execution.

What does an innovation engineer do?

An innovation engineer develops new products, processes, or technologies to improve efficiency and competitiveness. They often use design thinking, engineering skills, and tools like CAD software to create prototypes and test ideas in a collaborative environment.

Do entry-level engineering jobs exist?

Yes, entry-level innovation engineer positions are available for recent graduates or those with limited experience. These roles typically involve learning on the job, working with teams, and developing skills in areas like product development, prototyping, and innovation processes.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level innovation engineers do not earn that level of salary, senior or specialized engineers in high-demand fields such as software, aerospace, or biomedical engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, or in leadership roles. Achieving this typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in competitive industries or companies.

What types of projects do Entry Level Innovation Engineers typically work on, and how do they contribute to the team’s overall goals?

Entry Level Innovation Engineers are often involved in brainstorming sessions, prototyping new solutions, and conducting feasibility studies for emerging technologies. They usually collaborate closely with cross-functional teams such as product development, marketing, and research to help transform innovative ideas into viable products or processes. This role requires a willingness to learn, adaptability, and strong communication skills, as you'll be expected to present your ideas, gather feedback, and iterate quickly. Contributing to multiple projects simultaneously is common, providing valuable exposure to different business areas and setting the foundation for future career growth within the organization.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or software engineering with senior roles and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What does an Entry Level Innovation Engineer do?

An Entry Level Innovation Engineer assists in designing and developing new products, processes, or technologies to improve a company's offerings. They work closely with cross-functional teams to brainstorm, prototype, and test innovative solutions to real-world problems. Their responsibilities often include conducting research, analyzing data, and supporting senior engineers in bringing creative ideas to life. Entry level innovation engineers typically contribute fresh perspectives and help drive continuous improvement within organizations.
More about Entry Level Innovation Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Innovation Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Innovation Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Innovation Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Innovation Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Innovation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Innovation Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Innovation Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
Innovation Engineer (Cockpit & Trim)

Innovation Engineer (Cockpit & Trim)

Ford Motor Company

Dearborn, MI

$65K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

We made history and now we work to transform the future - for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.

Performance Metrics (KPIs)

Patent Disclosures1 disclosure contribution per global team member per year.More than 1 disclosure OR 1 Patent Granted with a production plan.Project wins a major award (SPE, Henry Ford, or Ingenious Minds).Process Improvement1 Best Practice or Process Improvement contribution per global team member per year.Actual application of the improvement as a global tool.Improvement becomes a new recognized industry standard.Technology Sourcing2 Tech Shows + 2 Symposiums per global site annually.Successful implementation of 1 discovered tech from Tech Shows into production.Discovery of a disruptive tech with major Cost/Quality impact.Design Thinking100% of Global Interior Systems community trained (Entry Level).Coordination of workshops that result in production-ready parts.Innovation approach recognized by Directors and VPs.Project ExecutionIdentification of 1 new technology or efficiency.Moving an innovation into Advance Engineering (Pre-PS stages).Delivery of a breakthrough tech that is industry disruptive.

Key Characteristics

  • Creative Mindset: You look at old problems in new ways and find inspiration outside of the automotive world.
  • Practical Innovation: You believe in innovation that serves a purpose and can actually be built, not just ideas for the sake of ideas.
  • Simple Approach: You follow a Keep It Simple philosophy, ensuring solutions make sense and avoid unnecessary complexity.
  • Results Driven: You have a bias for action and a proven track record of finishing projects on time.
  • Strong Communicator: You can speak clearly with engineers, designers, and marketing teams to keep everyone aligned.

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering. A Master's Degree or Certification in Innovation Management is preferred.
  • Experience: Solid background in developing automotive interior parts, specifically in Cockpits, Trim, or Displays.
  • Process Knowledge: Deep understanding of the Product Development (PD) process from initial concept to the assembly line.
  • Patent History: A good record of patent disclosures that have been successfully implemented in vehicles is highly desired.
  • Efficiency Focus: Proven ability to deliver efficient design solutions that reduce complexity and cost through a Keep It Simple methodology.
  • Tool Proficiency: Experience leading Design Thinking sessions and using innovation frameworks to drive team output.

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!

As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above? 

No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service 
A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day 
Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time. 
 

This position is a salary grade 5 through 8. Salaries can range between $65,100 - $166,200.      
Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.

For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/GSR
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
 

Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.
This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week. #LI-Hybrid
   #LI-KH2 #vehiclehardwareengineering
 

Innovation Leadership

  • Council Management: Lead the Cockpit, Trim, and Displays Global Innovation Council.
  • Workshop Facilitation: Run Design Thinking sessions and clinics to solve interior challenges with a customer-centric focus.
  • Training Development: Propose and update the Innovation Learning Pathway for the global engineering community.

Technology Discovery

  • Trend Scouting: Research new technologies in automotive and outside industries (electronics, aerospace, etc.).
  • Supplier Coordination: Organize technology shows with current and new suppliers at all global sites.
  • Competitive Analysis: Monitor competitor interiors to identify gaps and opportunities for leadership.

Production Integration

  • Implementation: Work with Marketing and Program teams to ensure ideas reach production vehicles.
  • Advanced Engineering: Feed innovation concepts into the workstream at Pre-PS stages.
  • Simple Design: Apply a Keep It Simple approach to maximize output and ensure design solutions are efficient and easy to manufacture.

Intellectual Property

  • Patent Filing: Identify unique ideas and write Innovation Disclosures for review with Attorneys.
  • Efficiency Tracking: Monitor part reduction, cost savings, and manufacturing improvements for every implemented idea.
  • Global Standardization: Turn successful local improvements into global best practices.

Ford logo

About Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Doral, FL, US

Year founded

1982