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Manager Automotive Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Priamba Soft

EV Battery pack Lead Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120K - $158K/yr

... Automotive Engineering, or equivalent. * 8+ years of experience in EV battery pack or energy storage system design. * Strong knowledge of lithium‑ion cell technology, thermal management, HV safety ...

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All JobsAutomotive Engineer JobsManager Automotive Engineer JobsManager Automotive Engineer Jobs in California

Manager Automotive Engineer information

See California salary details

$12

$55

$79

How much do manager automotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for manager automotive engineer in California is $55.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.62 and $73.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a manager automotive engineer typically balance technical responsibilities with team leadership duties?

A Manager Automotive Engineer often splits their time between overseeing engineering projects and supporting their team’s professional development. This involves not only reviewing technical designs and ensuring project milestones are met but also mentoring junior engineers, facilitating communication across departments, and setting performance goals. Effective time management and delegation are crucial, as the manager must address both the technical challenges of automotive engineering and the day-to-day needs of their team. Collaboration with other departments, such as manufacturing and quality assurance, is also a common part of the role.

What is the difference between Manager Automotive Engineer vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectManager Automotive EngineerAutomotive Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering; often leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering; focus on design skills
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project management, cross-department collaborationDesign studios, CAD software, prototype testing
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, suppliers, R&D departmentsAutomotive manufacturers, design firms, R&D teams
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in automotive engineeringFocus on vehicle design and development

The main difference between a Manager Automotive Engineer and an Automotive Design Engineer lies in their focus and responsibilities. The Manager oversees teams, project timelines, and strategic planning, while the Design Engineer concentrates on creating vehicle components and prototypes. Both roles require strong engineering credentials, but their day-to-day tasks and career paths differ significantly.

What does a manager automotive engineer do?

A Manager Automotive Engineer oversees teams that design, develop, and improve automotive systems and vehicles. They coordinate engineering projects, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure that products meet quality and safety standards. Additionally, they often liaise between different departments such as manufacturing, design, and quality assurance, and may interact with clients or suppliers. Their role is crucial in leading technical teams to innovate and deliver successful automotive solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manager automotive engineer?

To thrive as a Manager Automotive Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, experience in vehicle design or manufacturing, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools, and industry standards like ISO/TS 16949 is essential, as are certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help guide multidisciplinary teams and drive innovation. These competencies are crucial for delivering high-quality automotive projects on time and ensuring team performance in a highly competitive industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Manager Automotive Engineer jobs in California?

For Manager Automotive Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Manager Automotive Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Manager Automotive Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Manager Automotive Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Manager Automotive Engineer job openings:

Manager Automotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manager Automotive Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,938 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Low Voltage Distribution Validation Engineer

Formel D USA

Foster City, CA • On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

We Participate in E-verify
Formel D is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.
For questions, Please email recruiting-usa@formeld.com
Low Voltage Distribution Validation Engineer
Project Duration: 6 months with potential extension
Location: Foster City, CA
Position Summary
The Low Voltage Distribution Validation Engineer will be responsible for developing and executing validation activities for LV components and systems, including wiring harnesses, connectors, terminals, battery systems, sensors, and power distribution components. The engineer will support the complete validation lifecycle, from requirements definition and test planning through execution, data analysis, failure investigation, and final reporting.
Key Responsibilities
• Develop, manage, and execute validation test plans for mechanical, electrical, and environmental failure modes
• Validate Low Voltage components including wiring harnesses, connectors, terminals, grommets, fuse boxes, batteries, and battery sensors
• Define test requirements, select appropriate test equipment, sensors, and data acquisition systems
• Execute laboratory and vehicle-level testing using tools such as DAQ systems, power supplies, electronic loads, oscilloscopes, accelerometers, thermocouples, CAN/LIN, and Automotive Ethernet tools
• Analyze test data, prepare validation reports, and communicate results to engineering teams
• Support root cause analysis, DFMEA activities, and corrective action implementation
• Collaborate with design engineering, suppliers, manufacturing teams, and cross-functional stakeholders
• Track project activities, risks, and deliverables using tools such as JIRA and Kanban methodology
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field
• 3-6 years of automotive validation, testing, or product development experience
• Experience validating LV electrical components, including:
o Wiring harnesses
o Connectors and terminals
o Fuse boxes and power distribution systems
o Battery systems and sensors
o Signal integrity validation
• Experience with automotive communication protocols:
o CAN
o LIN
o Automotive Ethernet
o A2B communication
• Experience with requirements management tools (Polarion or equivalent).
• Knowledge of automotive validation standards and production processes:
o USCAR standards
o LV124 / LV148
o ISO 8820
o Open Alliance Ethernet Standards
o Strip & Crimp, Welding, Stamping, and Molding processes
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with EV systems, vehicle durability testing, or road load data acquisition (RLDA)
• Familiarity with CATIA V5, CATIA 3DX, or SolidWorks
• EMI/EMC validation experience
• Experience with Vector tools (CANalyzer or equivalent)
• Knowledge of thermal management, power distribution, battery technologies, and ISO 26262 Functional Safety

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