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Motorcycle Test Rider Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Job Responsibilities * Drive early development work for our rider facing electrical systems ... Develop and evaluate new functions, features, and systems on motorcycles in a rapid prototyping or ...

Job Responsibilities * Drive early development work for our rider facing electrical systems ... Develop and evaluate new functions, features, and systems on motorcycles in a rapid prototyping or ...

Sr Mechatronics Engineer

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

$109K - $159K/yr

Job Responsibilities * Drive early development work for our rider facing electrical systems ... Develop and evaluate new functions, features, and systems on motorcycles in a rapid prototyping or ...

Motorcycle Test Rider information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$8

$21

$49

How much do motorcycle test rider jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for motorcycle test rider in Milwaukee, WI is $21.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.54 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a motorcycle tester?

To become a motorcycle test rider, you typically need a valid motorcycle license, riding experience, and knowledge of motorcycle mechanics and safety standards. Some positions require a background in engineering or testing, and strong communication skills are important for providing detailed feedback. Gaining experience through riding, certifications, or related roles can improve chances of securing a motorcycle testing position.

What is a Motorcycle Test Rider job?

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 is the 12 second rule for bikers?

The 12 second rule for motorcycle test riders refers to maintaining a safe following distance, which is approximately the distance a motorcycle travels in 12 seconds at current speed. This helps ensure enough time to react to sudden stops or hazards, promoting rider safety and accident prevention.

How much do motorcycle test riders make?

Motorcycle test riders typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They often work for manufacturers, testing new models or safety features, and may need specialized riding skills and certifications.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A motorcycle test rider can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month through freelance work, sponsorships, and testing fees, especially with experience and a strong reputation. Such roles often require specialized riding skills, safety certifications, and the ability to work in dynamic environments, but they do not typically require a college degree.
What are popular job titles related to Motorcycle Test Rider jobs in Milwaukee, WI? For Motorcycle Test Rider jobs in Milwaukee, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Motorcycle Test Rider jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Motorcycle Test Rider jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
Infographic showing various Motorcycle Test Rider job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,437 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Systems Engineering Manager - Lighting, Handlebars, & Hand Controls

Harley-Davidson

Wauwatosa, WI

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Auto req ID: 55625 
Title: Systems Engineering Manager - Lighting, Handlebars, & Hand Controls 
Job Function: Engineering 
Location: PDC
Workplace Category:Onsite 
Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company 
Full or Part-Time: Full Time 
Shift: SHIFT1 

At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It’s our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley-Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join 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  Systems Engineering Manager - Lighting, Handlebars, & Hand Controls.

Job Summary

The Systems Engineering Manager leads a team of engineers who are responsible for complete system technical correctness and the delivery of great Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Primary focus will be on technical delivery of lighting, handlebar and handcontrol systems for both motorcycle and accessory projects.  The manager is also responsible for driving and maintaining system-level strategies and technical knowledge, while ensuring team adherence to the organization’s product development process.  This role drives ownership of highly visible rider interface systems, provides opportunities to influence vehicle architecture and ability to shape next-generation strategies.

Job Responsibilities
  • Lead your team in the delivery of motorcycle and accessory projects utilizing the Great Harley-Davidson Engineering (GHDE) framework and Harley-Davidson Product Development Process methodology.
  • Accountable for technical excellence and on-time delivery of your team’s responsibilities including system requirements, performance, system design integration/packaging, design for assembly/service, test issue resolution, and overall system verification plan.
  • Develop collaborative working relationships with suppliers and internal partners on the development and execution of supplier-led designs to meet technical, program and other stakeholder requirements.
  • Provide professional development, guide technical issue resolution, and align work priorities for 8-12 direct reports responsible for delivering system level engineering on motorcycle and accessory programs across H-D’s portfolio.
  • Leads team to develop and clearly articulate system strategies for Lighting, Handlebars and Handcontrols in partnership and alignment with cross-functional stakeholders, and drives successful implementation of these strategies.
  • End-to-end technical ownership for Lighting, Handlebars and Handcontrol systems. This will include creation and cultivation of standard requirements, PRDs, DFMEAs, test plans, engineering guidelines and other templates.
  • Partner with Electrical Architecture Leader to oversee and drive vehicle and system electrical architecture decisions to ensure achievement of all program-level requirements.
  • Develop staffing plans and set responsibilities of your direct reports to enable successful and efficient delivery of product development goals.
  • Drive culture to continually refine your team’s operating methods and system documentation to drive engineering excellence.
Education Requirements
Bachelor's Degree Required
Education Specifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, or related technical field is Required. Master’s Degree is Preferred (technical or MBA).
Experience Requirements
  • Minimum of 8 years of relevant engineering experience.  Experience in lighting and / or general electrical systems development is preferred.  
  • Demonstrated success in delivering high impact technical engineering projects involving complex system interactions from development through production implementation.
  • Ability to lead engineering teams through issue resolution from data collection, data analysis, root cause identification, solution set generation, and selection of optimal solutions.
  • Ability to effectively communicate technical subjects in a clear, concise manner to multiple levels of the organization and work with diverse global teams both internally and externally.
  • Ability to lead complex technical designs to production leveraging supplier-driven design and expertise.
  • Experience mentoring others either within or adjacent to your direct supervision.
  • Experience authoring requirements, developing test-cases, and establishing traceability to test completion within a formal product development process.
  • Knowledge developing artifacts that support product development in accordance with a functional safety process, ISO26262 preferred.  Example work products include Item Definitions, HARAs, and Functional Safety Requirements. 
  • Knowledge of whole-vehicle systems with detailed electrical system/component design & integration experience. 
  • Experience using engineering tools and methods such as 3D CAD systems (PTC Creo/Parametric, CreoView, Windchill or equivalent), DFMEA, GD&T, and engineering calculations (bolted joint, bearing press, tolerance stacks, etc) to design, assess, and refine system designs to meet a variety of requirements.
  • Ability to optimize tradeoffs across a system design considering program, vehicle and system level requirements.

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: Yes  
Travel Required: 0 - 10%  
Pay Range: $126,500-202,400
 
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) Â