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Ride Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Wheels & Tires Engineer

Superior, MI · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Chassis Engineering Design is a collaborative and innovation-driven team at a leading automotive ... Support vehicle-level testing for ride and handling, including ride tuning and handling dynamics ...

We're ALTEN Technology USA, an engineering company helping clients bring groundbreaking ideas to ... Perform driving evaluations, including ride, steering, routine handling, and limit handling (75% of ...

Java Developer

Lansing, MI · On-site

$51.75 - $67/hr

... Database, Ride Quality Forecasting System, and Fabrication Inspection & Construction System ... Software Engineer capabilities with 10 or more years of experience, relies on experience and ...

... team. - Application Engineer, Associate ABOUT TENNECO At Tenneco, we don't follow industry ... If you're ready to break boundaries, deliver results, and enjoy the ride along the way, you'll ...

Showing results 21-40

Ride Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$51.9K

$78.9K

$133.8K

How much do ride engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for ride engineer in Michigan is $78,889.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,700.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ride engineer?

Ride engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain amusement park rides and attractions. They combine knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and structural engineering to ensure rides are safe, reliable, and enjoyable for guests. Ride engineers work closely with architects, designers, and safety inspectors throughout the planning, construction, and operation phases. Their responsibilities often include troubleshooting technical issues, performing regular safety checks, and implementing upgrades or repairs as needed.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a ride engineer?

To thrive as a Ride Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience with ride design or theme park systems. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC programming, and safety compliance standards like ASTM F24 is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help you excel in cross-functional environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and innovation of amusement park rides.

What challenges do ride engineers face when maintaining and upgrading amusement park rides?

Ride Engineers often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex mechanical and electrical issues, ensuring compliance with rigorous safety standards, and coordinating maintenance schedules to minimize ride downtime. They must quickly adapt to evolving technologies and work collaboratively with operations teams, electricians, and mechanics to resolve problems efficiently. Balancing preventative maintenance with urgent repairs, especially during peak park seasons, requires strong organizational and communication skills.

What is the difference between Ride Engineer vs Ride Technician?

AspectRide EngineerRide Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree or technical certification, specialized trainingTechnical diploma or certification, hands-on training
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and overseeing ride systems; office and manufacturing settingsMaintenance, repair, and troubleshooting on-site at amusement parks or facilities
Industry UsageUsed in design and development phases, ensuring safety and performance standards

Ride Engineers focus on designing, testing, and ensuring the safety of amusement rides, often working in offices or labs. Ride Technicians perform maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting on rides at parks or facilities. While both roles require technical knowledge, Ride Engineers typically hold engineering credentials and work in development, whereas Ride Technicians focus on operational safety and maintenance on-site.

What qualifications do you need to be a ride engineer?

Ride engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering, along with experience in machinery maintenance and safety protocols. Knowledge of ride systems, troubleshooting skills, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are also important. Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail are essential for ensuring ride safety and operation efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Ride Engineer jobs in Michigan?

For Ride Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ride Engineer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Ride Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Ride Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $78,889 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Brake Validation Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

ALTEN Technology USA
Engineering Professional Services • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

  • We are looking for a skilled and motivated Brake Validation Engineer to join our team.
  • In this role, you will be responsible for planning, executing, and validating brake system tests, while also contributing to the integration and development of advanced braking functions.
  • A significant portion of this role (approximately 75%) involves specialized driving evaluations, including handling vehicles in challenging conditions such as ice.
  • The ideal candidate is proactive, adaptable, and thrives in dynamic testing environments.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct DVP-R and certification tests using advanced data acquisition systems.
  • Set up test equipment, execute vehicle tests, and process post-test data for validation.
  • Perform driving evaluations, including ride, steering, routine handling, and limit handling (75% of role); demonstrate comfort driving in challenging and extreme conditions, especially on ice.
  • Utilize CANanalyzer and diagnostic tools (preferably CDA) for data analysis and troubleshooting.
  • Support calibration and integration of brake, traction, and stability control systems.
  • Contribute to the design, release, and validation of brake components.
  • Apply structured problem-solving methodologies to resolve technical issues effectively.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with safety, performance, and certification standards.

Required Skills & Qualifications (Priority 1)

  • Availability for overtime and frequent testing trips (10-50%).
  • Strong adaptability and resilience to manage changing priorities while maintaining motivation and work continuity.
  • Proactive and facilitative mindset.
  • Hands-on experience with DVP-R and certification testing using data acquisition systems.
  • Proven experience in test equipment setup, execution, and post-test data processing.
  • Specialized driving expertise in subjective evaluations of ride, steering, handling, and limit handling, with proven ability to perform in challenging environments (particularly on ice).
  • Proficiency with CANalyzer.
  • Experience with diagnostic tools (CDA preferred).

Preferred Skills (Priority 2)

  • Experience calibrating and integrating brake, traction, and stability functions.
  • Experience in the design and release of brake components.
  • Proficiency in structured problem-solving techniques (e.g., Shainin, DFSS, Red X).
  • Formal training in Design for Six Sigma (DFSS).

Additional Skills (Priority 3)

  • Familiarity with DFMEA/SFMEA and DVP-R methodologies.
  • Experience with INCA.

Candidate Profile

  • The ideal candidate is a technically strong, hands-on engineer with exceptional driving evaluation skills, particularly in extreme conditions.
  • You are proactive, adaptable, and collaborative, with the ability to manage complex testing programs while ensuring compliance with certification requirements.