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Manager Automotive Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's Degree in engineering or related technical field, or equivalent. * 7-10 years of experience in automotive manufacturing, with 3-5 years in a plant management role. * Proven track record of ...

Design Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$85K - $96K/yr

In this role, you will bring automotive filtration systems to life, from initial concept through ... Collaborate with program managers and internal stakeholders to meet project milestones and ...

Design Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$85K - $96K/yr

In this role, you will bring automotive filtration systems to life, from initial concept through ... Collaborate with program managers and internal stakeholders to meet project milestones and ...

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Manager Automotive Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$57

$83

How much do manager automotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for manager automotive engineer in Chicago, IL is $57.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.39 and $76.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 type of manager automotive engineers make the most money?

Senior managerial roles such as Director of Automotive Engineering or Engineering Manager typically earn the highest salaries in the automotive engineering field. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership abilities, and they may oversee multiple teams or projects within automotive companies or suppliers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Manager Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Manager Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Manager Automotive Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Manager Automotive Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Manager Automotive Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Manager Automotive Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,069 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

Sales Manager - Automotive Aftermarket

Long Grove, IL • On-site


MAT Holdings, Inc
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

370th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 hours ago


Job description

Company Description
Join our vertically integrated team at MAT Holdings, Inc., a leading global manufacturer with a 40-year history. We're proud to provide employment opportunities for more than 14,000 employees across 12 countries. Headquartered in Long Grove, Illinois, we have over 40 factories on three continents, including 2.1 million square feet of U.S. distribution and manufacturing space.
You will find our products at home improvement centers, big-box retailers, hardware stores, and automotive chains. They're in the cars you drive, the trailers you tow, and the heavy-duty machinery you operate.
MAT can maintain consistent expertise and solutions across the entire supply chain. We're experts in engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, logistics and distribution, marketing, design, and customer service - we don't just make it happen, we ensure it happens with excellence.
We're more than manufacturing, we're MAT.
Job Description
Effectively manage all aspects of their sales territory. Work to establish effective, long-term relationships with customers. Lead Sales initiatives in the Independent Automotive Aftermarket to exponential growth. Build relationships with traditional key accounts while innovating development with new channels.
Principle Responsibilities
  • Generate new sales opportunities for Automotive Light Vehicle Braking - IAM and private label programs.
  • Maximize sales revenues within an existing and prospective customer base
  • Generate national sales plan to deliver AOP within budget
  • Perform business reviews of new opportunities with senior management.
  • Lead sales proposals with business case analytics, costs, pricing, terms, and full-scope solutions.
  • Conduct regular sales meetings with customers
  • Contact customers to gather information concerning product sales or competitor activity
  • Prepare materials to use in support of oral presentations
  • Maintain familiarity with trade reaction to prices, discounts, terms of sales, product packaging, and customer service within own territory
  • Communicate prices, terms, or conditions of sales programs with customers
  • Discuss problems with customers, answer questions, and present "win-win" solutions
  • Full cycle brand management - marketing, supply chain, customer service, etc.
  • Drive an increase in the share of demand at the professionally installed level
    • Motivate and train inside and outside WD salespeople
    • Work with potential customers to identify, solicit, and close sales opportunities
  • Work independently to identify, solicit, and close sales opportunities

Qualifications
  • Experience or background in the brake industry is preferred.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Technical Discipline, Business, or Engineering -4 year degree preferred
  • Minimum 2-5 years of automotive aftermarket experience
  • Analytical and able to make short- and long-term decisions
  • Ability to travel +60%

Competencies
  • Shows the ability to be resourceful and driven
  • Highly organized, results-driven, and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent communication, organization and development skills
  • Microsoft PPT, Excel, Teams and other management tools
  • Understanding the Automotive Aftermarket landscape.
  • Positive attitude with a proactive approach to the business
  • SAP experience a plus

The posted salary range for this position is $90,000 to $120,000 annually, including bonus. Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications.
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Videos To Watch
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