Prototype Vehicle Build Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced Garage E/E Specialist to support prototype vehicle builds, electrical integration, and troubleshooting in a fast-paced development environment. This role requires a hybrid skillset combining traditional garage technician capabilities (mechanical tear-down/build-up) with strong automotive electrical and electronics proficiency. The technician will work on early-stage vehicles where systems are evolving rapidly and requires both hands-on execution and analytical electrical system problem-solving. Experience with modern vehicle architectures (SDV, zonal E/E) is a strong advantage. 

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

Prototype Vehicle Build & Garage Support

• Perform vehicle teardown and reassembly to support prototype builds and modifications
• Install and integrate prototype components including electrical and mechanical systems
• Support vehicle preparation for test activities (durability, functional, integration)
• Ensure vehicle readiness in a fast-moving, changing prototype environment

Elect

• Modify, repair, and build automotive wiring harnesses to support prototype needs
• Route, secure, and protect wiring for durability and test conditions
• Perform connector work (pinning, de-pinning, crimping, soldering) to automotive standards
• Install ECUs, sensors, actuators, and power distribution components

Diagnostics & Troubleshooting

• Diagnose electrical and system-level issues on prototype vehicles, including: 
  • Power and grounding issues 
  • Short circuits and open circuits 
  • Communication faults (no comm, intermittent faults) 
• Use diagnostic tools such as:
  • Multimeters
    
  • Oscilloscopes
  • CAN/LIN analyzers
    
• Independently evaluate root causes, determine appropriate corrective actions, and implement practical fixes to keep vehicles operational
  

Vehicle Networks & E/E Systems

• Support setup, validation, and troubleshooting of vehicle networks:
  • CAN / CAN FD
  • LIN
  • Automotive Ethernet (preferred)
• Apply working knowledge of vehicle architecture and signal flow to diagnose multi-ECU and system-level issues
  
• Assist with ECU flashing, replacement, and bring-up support
  
• Support debugging of system-level issues involving multiple ECUs
  

SDV / Zonal Architecture (Preferred Exposure)

• Support integration of zonal controllers and distributed electrical architectures
  
• Assist in validating wiring and communication between zones and central compute units
  
• Help diagnose issues across more software-driven and networked vehicle systems
  (Deep expertise not required - working familiarity is sufficient)
  

Fabrication & Practical Problem Solving

• Design and fabricate simple brackets, mounts, and supports to enable testing and diagnostics
  
• Build breakout harnesses or test leads for diagnostics
  
• Ensure all modifications are robust, serviceable, and test-ready
  

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Novi, Michigan.
• This role requires 4-5 days per week in the office, with regular in-person meetings and events. 
• Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You'll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You'll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring: 

Required 

• 7+ years of experience in automotive garage, prototype build, or vehicle electrical work 
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field, or a comparable combination of hands-on experience and technical expertise that demonstrates the ability to succeed in the role. 
• Strong hands-on ability in: 
  • Mechanical vehicle work (tear-down / reassembly) 
  • Automotive electrical systems and wiring 
• Proven troubleshooting capability (not just parts replacement) 
• Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams and schematics 
• Comfortable working on incomplete, evolving prototype vehicles 

Preferred 

• Experience with CAN/LIN diagnostics and logging tools (e.g., Vector, Kvaser) 
• Exposure to Automotive Ethernet or modern vehicle networks 
• Familiarity with SDV or zonal E/E architectures 
• Experience in prototype, motorsport, or pre-production environments 
• Basic ECU flashing / configuration experience 

What Success Looks Like 

• Vehicles are built, modified, and kept running efficiently in a prototype environment 
• Electrical issues are diagnosed quickly and resolved correctly 
• Wiring modifications are clean, robust, and reliable 
• Strong collaboration with engineers without needing constant direction 
• Ability to handle both mechanical and electrical tasks seamlessly 

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up.  This is a chance to create something new and lasting - with an iconic brand at its foundation.  In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

• Competitive insurance including:
  • Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with:
  • An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including:
  • 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
  • 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
  • Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
  • Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial base salary range = $110,000.00 - $135,000.00

Internal leveling code: IC9