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Motorcycle Test Rider Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Harley-Davidson

Senior Design Engineer

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

Demonstrated ability to develop and execute test plans to verify project requirements. * Experience ... motorcycle / vehicle performance, defining rider/customer requirements, designing for rider ...

Harley-Davidson

Senior Design Engineer

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

Demonstrated ability to develop and execute test plans to verify project requirements. * Experience ... motorcycle / vehicle performance, defining rider/customer requirements, designing for rider ...

Harley-Davidson

Engineer Design

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Develop electrical component designs and test plans with global engineering partner and approve ... Rider interface, sensor integration, and other embedded functions * Ensure that system requirements ...

Harley-Davidson

Engineer Design

Wauwatosa, WI

$74K - $112K/yr

Develop electrical component designs and test plans with global engineering partner and approve ... Rider interface, sensor integration, and other embedded functions * Ensure that system requirements ...

Harley-Davidson

Engineer Design

Wauwatosa, WI

$74K - $112K/yr

Develop electrical component designs and test plans with global engineering partner and approve ... Rider interface, sensor integration, and other embedded functions * Ensure that system requirements ...

All JobsMotorcycle Test Rider JobsMotorcycle Test Rider Jobs in Wisconsin

Motorcycle Test Rider information

See Wisconsin salary details

$7

$19

$46

How much do motorcycle test rider jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for motorcycle test rider in Wisconsin is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $19.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a motorcycle test rider?

A Motorcycle Test Rider tests new and existing motorcycle models to evaluate performance, safety, and handling. They provide feedback to manufacturers on issues like engine performance, braking, suspension, and overall ride experience. Riders may follow strict test plans, ride in various conditions, and sometimes push motorcycles to their limits. Their insights help improve bike design before production or release.

What are some typical challenges faced by motorcycle test riders during the testing process?

Motorcycle Test Riders often encounter challenges such as adapting to diverse weather and road conditions, handling prototypes with untested features, and accurately documenting performance issues. They must remain attentive to safety protocols while pushing bikes to their limits and be prepared for unexpected mechanical issues. Collaborating closely with engineers, designers, and mechanics is a regular part of the job, as their feedback directly influences product improvements. Overcoming these challenges requires not only technical riding skills but also adaptability and clear communication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the motorcycle test rider position, and why are they important?

A Motorcycle Test Rider needs advanced motorcycle handling skills, in-depth mechanical knowledge, and typically a valid motorcycle license, with experience riding various types of bikes. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, telemetry systems, and safety equipment is essential for collecting performance data and ensuring accurate tests. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to provide thorough feedback are crucial soft skills in this position. These abilities are vital for evaluating motorcycles safely and effectively, supporting product development, and collaborating with engineers and designers.

What are popular job titles related to Motorcycle Test Rider jobs in Wisconsin?

For Motorcycle Test Rider jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Motorcycle Test Rider jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Motorcycle Test Rider jobs in Wisconsin are:

Motorcycle Test Rider jobs near you
Infographic showing various Motorcycle Test Rider job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,588 per year, or $20 per hour.

Senior Design Engineer

Harley-Davidson

Wauwatosa, WI • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Auto req ID: 57517
Title: Senior Design Engineer
Job Function: Engineering
Location: PDC
Workplace Category: Onsite
Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Full or Part-Time: Full Time
Shift: SHIFT1
In 1903, out of a small shed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, four young men lit a cultural wildfire that would grow and spread across geographies and generations. Their innovation and imagination for what was possible on two wheels sparked a transportation revolution that would make Harley-Davidson the most recognizable motorcycle brand in the world. Today, we continue to define motorcycle culture, evoking soul-stirring emotion reflected in every product and experience we deliver - like we have for well over a century and will for generations to come. Are you ready to ride with us?
The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra - You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a Senior Design Engineer.
Job Summary
Design Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and delivery of motorcycle components and systems using robust engineering practices and Harley-Davidson product development methodology. Engineers are expected to deliver performance, style, quality, cost, durability, manufacturing, and timing objectives for their parts.
This role works collaboratively with industrial design, manufacturing, purchasing, quality, service, regulatory, and worldwide supplier partners.
Scope, autonomy, and leadership expectations scale by level, but all roles emphasize technical ownership, strong fundamentals, and cross functional collaboration.
Job Responsibilities
  • Design, optimize, and deliver motorcycle components and systems from concept through production, applying sound engineering fundamentals, analysis, and testing.
  • Define and manage component or system requirements and ensure alignment with vehicle performance and project objectives.
  • Create and release CAD models, assemblies, drawings, and technical documentation.
  • Plan and execute validation activities including DFMEAs, DVP&Rs, testing, and resolution of technical issues.
  • Collaborate with cross functional teams and suppliers to resolve complex technical, manufacturing, quality, and business problems
  • Support sourcing, supplier development, and production readiness activities.
  • Communicate technical status and risks clearly to stakeholders.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement through knowledge sharing, guideline development, and best practices.
  • Mentor and support less experienced engineers as appropriate to role.

Education Requirements
  • Bachelors of Science (BS) degree is required in either: Mechanical or Electro-mechanical.

Experience Requirements
  • Minimum of 5 years of hands-on engineering professional experience working directly in product development.
  • Well-rounded engineering background in mechanical design, project management, and continuous improvement.
  • Deep technical knowledge in manufacturing processes includes welding, forging, casting, machining, injection molding, rubber molding, chrome plating, and coatings.
  • Understanding of mechanical systems, materials, and assembly processes.
  • Proficient in bolted joint calculations, analysis, testing, and design tools/processes including CAD, GD&T, conventional engineering calculations, FEA, PLM systems, DFM/DFA methodologies and engineering change management.
  • Proficient with CAD tools (Pro-E or Creo) to ensure design accuracy.
  • Proven success in solving challenging technical problems with innovative solutions in a team environment.
  • Demonstrated success directly or indirectly leading diverse global teams to accomplish technical, quality and timing commitments.
  • Experience with chassis, body, or vehicle design and integration in motorcycle, powersports, automotive, transportation, or agriculture industries.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and execute test plans to verify project requirements.
  • Experience working with suppliers and production launch activities including PPAP.
  • Motorcycle riding experience or strong interest is appreciated.

Chassis Position Specific - Preferred Experience
Suspension & Foot Controls
  • Systems / Components: suspension, forks, shocks, foot controls, footpegs, footboards
  • Engineering Skills: experience with supplier-led designs, development of PRD's (Project Requirement Document), motorcycle / vehicle performance, defining rider/customer requirements, designing for rider ergonomics, ride comfort, structural durability, aluminum castings, forging design, proficient in Creo

Bodywork
  • Systems / Components: bodywork, side covers, skid plates, seat cowl, covers, luggage, fairing
  • Engineering Skills: working with A-surface models, plastic part design, injection molding, cosmetic plastic part development, design of B-side features, proficient in Creo

Steering, Seats, Windshields
  • System / Components: seats, triple clamps, fork lock, steer stem, windshields
  • Engineering Skills: defining customer requirements, seat comfort, managing complexity and variants, experience with supplier-led designs, development of PRD's (Project Requirement Document), designing for rider ergonomics, proficient in Creo

The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.
We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
Direct Reports: No
Travel Required: 0 - 10%
Pay Range: $93,400 - $145,000
Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer
Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)

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