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Freelance Automotive Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Calspan LLC

Automotive Test Engineer

Buffalo, NY

$78K - $94K/yr

With a mission to deliver precise, high-quality, and reliable test results, we are seeking a skilled Automotive Test Engineer to join our team. This is a hands-on role where the Test Engineer ...

Calspan LLC

Automotive Test Engineer

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$78K - $94K/yr

With a mission to deliver precise, high-quality, and reliable test results, we are seeking a skilled Automotive Test Engineer to join our team. This is a hands-on role where the Test Engineer ...

Calspan LLC

Automotive Test Engineer

Buffalo, NY

$94K/yr

With a mission to deliver precise, high-quality, and reliable test results, we are seeking a skilled Automotive Test Engineer to join our team. This is a hands-on role where the Test Engineer ...

MGA Research Corporation

Test Engineer

Lincoln, AL · On-site

We are seeking an entry-level Test Engineer to work in our automotive test lab in Lincoln, Alabama. This position is responsible for project management and the coordination of testing for a variety ...

Stellantis

Impact Safety Test Engineer

Chelsea, MI · On-site

The Impact Safety Test Engineer is responsible for the planning, preparing, and performing impact ... Minimum of 5 years of automotive experience * Proficiency in Microsoft Office & MS Teams * Ability ...

Astemo Ltd

Brake Test Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

We are seeking a talented and self-motivated Brake Test Engineer to support the development and validation of automotive brake calipers and brake control systems. This position will be onsite at the ...

Astemo

Brake Test Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

We are seeking a talented and self-motivated Brake Test Engineer to support the development and validation of automotive brake calipers and brake control systems. This position will be onsite at the ...

Pae

Vehicle Battery Test Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

We are the world's top supplier of automotive test facilities, providing a full range of services ... Battery Lab Test Engineer is responsible for supporting the Design Verification (DV) physical ...

Dynamic Manufacturing

Test Engineer

Hillside, IL · On-site

$65K - $120K/yr

The Test Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining testing strategies, sequences, and machines for automotive transmissions, engines, drive units, valve bodies, EV ...

Amentum

Vehicle Battery Test Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

We are the world's top supplier of automotive test facilities, providing a full range of services ... We are seeking a Battery Lab Test Engineer for the Allen Park, MI location Battery Lab Test ...

Amentum

Breadboard Test Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

We are the world's top supplier of automotive test facilities, providing a full range of services ... We are hiring a Breadboard Test Engineer to work in Dearborn, MI. Complete physical validation of ...

Pae

Breadboard Test Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

We are the world's top supplier of automotive test facilities, providing a full range of services ... We are hiringa Breadboard Test Engineer to work in Dearborn, MI. Complete physical validation of ...

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Freelance Automotive Test Engineer information

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How much do freelance automotive test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance automotive test engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Freelance Automotive Test Engineer typically collaborate with manufacturers and other engineers during a vehicle testing project?

As a Freelance Automotive Test Engineer, you’ll often work closely with OEMs, suppliers, and multidisciplinary engineering teams. Communication is key, as you are expected to coordinate test plans, share results, and provide feedback on vehicle performance and safety. Collaboration may involve regular meetings, remote updates, and on-site presence during critical testing phases. Building strong professional relationships helps you stay aligned with project goals while ensuring your findings are integrated into design or production decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Automotive Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Automotive Test Engineer, you need a solid background in automotive engineering, vehicle dynamics, and testing methodologies, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data acquisition systems, and industry software such as MATLAB or CANalyzer is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with clients and interpreting test results. These skills ensure accurate vehicle assessments, effective client interactions, and reliable test outcomes in a competitive, project-driven environment.

What does a Freelance Automotive Test Engineer do?

A Freelance Automotive Test Engineer is responsible for evaluating and validating automotive systems, components, or entire vehicles to ensure they meet industry standards and performance requirements. They design and execute test plans, analyze data, and provide recommendations for improvements. As freelancers, they work independently or on a contract basis for different clients, offering flexibility and specialized expertise for specific testing needs.

What is the difference between Freelance Automotive Test Engineer vs Automotive Test Technician?

AspectFreelance Automotive Test EngineerAutomotive Test Technician
CredentialsRelevant engineering degrees, certifications in testing and automotive systemsTechnical diplomas or certifications in automotive technology or testing
Work EnvironmentIndependent projects, client sites, testing labsAutomotive manufacturing plants, testing facilities, labs
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance/contract basis, automotive R&D companies, testing firmsAutomotive manufacturers, testing centers, OEMs

Freelance Automotive Test Engineers typically work independently on various testing projects, often across multiple clients, requiring specialized engineering knowledge. Automotive Test Technicians usually work within company facilities performing routine testing and diagnostics. Both roles involve automotive testing but differ mainly in employment type and scope of responsibilities.

More about Freelance Automotive Test Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Automotive Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Automotive Test Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Test Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Test Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Automotive Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Automotive Test Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Automotive Test Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Automotive Test Engineer jobs are:
Freelance Automotive Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Automotive Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Automotive Test Engineer

Automotive Test Engineer

Calspan LLC

Buffalo, NY

$78K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Calspan’s Automotive Testing Services, located in Buffalo, NY, is a leader in advanced vehicle and component testing, supporting critical safety and performance evaluation programs. With a mission to deliver precise, high-quality, and reliable test results, we are seeking a skilled Automotive Test Engineer to join our team.

This is a hands-on role where the Test Engineer collaborates closely with team members to prepare and execute tests accurately and efficiently. In this position, you will support dynamic sled testing programs, including test planning, setup, execution, and data collection. You will also review test data and prepare clear, consistent reports in alignment with industry best practices.

This is your chance to be part of a company with a proud 75-year legacy, built on strong Be Calspan Values and a commitment to innovation. If you're passionate about technology, safety, and teamwork, we’d love to hear from you!


  • Interpret test results, compile data and generate all test reports accurately and on time.
  • Work closely with staff and customers to develop innovative performance measurement and analysis methods. Convert customer requirements into detailed, logical and practical Project and Test Plans.
  • Work with technicians and mechanics to set-up equipment, test articles and facilities in order to prepare for and execute tests.
  • Execute tests in a professional and timely manner, consistent with general laboratory practices.

Preferred Education & Experience:

  • Bachelors in Engineering, Engineering Technology or related discipline
  • 5+ years in a testing environment;
  • A combination of education and experience equivalent to above

Preferred Knowledge / Ability:

  • Mechanical and/or electrical aptitude
  • Hands-on experience in a test environment
  • Interact professionally with customers
  • Read and interpret engineering plans and specifications
  • Define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions and make specific recommendations
  • Write accurate, consistent and well written reports
  • Experience with data acquisition systems and instrumenting vehicles with accelerometers, pressure sensors along with fabricating test fixtures
  • Ability to operate and maintain a wide variety of hand and power tools, shop tools, and shop equipment, for the servicing automobiles
  • Understanding of mechanical systems and ability to troubleshoot problems
  • Microsoft Office
  • AutoCAD Inventor

Why join Calspan?

Be Calspan Culture

At Calspan, we promote an environment that empowers employees and encourages innovation. Our management team enables a strong sense of teamwork with each endeavor, where successes are shared and lessons are learned. The company’s talent brand, “Be Calspan”, incorporates our company values to Be Inclusive, Accountable, and Innovative and our commitment to drive every individual to - Be Developed, Be Balanced, Be Connected, Be Community and Be Recognized. Our culture promotes a positive atmosphere and competitive can-do method of action.

Great Benefits = Happy, Committed Employees 

Retaining great talent is as important as finding it, so at Calspan, we take our employee value proposition of Be Calspan quite seriously. To us, that means offering competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, recognition programs and promotional opportunities. Our benefits include: Health Insurance, Health Savings Accounts, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance/Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Short-Term/Long-Term Disability, 401(k), Hospital Coverage, Accident Coverage, Life Insurance Policy, Paid-Time Off, Company-paid Holidays, Bereavement Leave, Jury Duty, Military Leave, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Reimbursement , and Pet Insurance.

Calspan is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Calspan supports safe and drug free workplace through pre-employment background checks and drug testing.

The salary range provided is a general guideline. Actual pay will depend on several factors, including, but not limited to, education, experience, training, and other applicable qualifications.  Calspan is committed to pay transparency in compliance with applicable state and local laws.

All candidates must be eligible to work in the United States. 


USD $78,000.00/Yr.
USD $94,000.00/Yr.

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