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Senior Automotive Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bertrandt

Senior Automotive Systems Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$102K - $139K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Automotive Systems Engineer to support the development, release, validation, and launch of vehicle systems with a strong focus on Interior, Exterior, and Trim ...

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Senior Automotive Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior automotive engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automotive engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior automotive engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in vehicle design, and expertise in areas like powertrain or autonomous systems can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, specialized certifications, and working in competitive or high-demand markets.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automotive engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in vehicle design, and expertise in areas like electric vehicles or autonomous systems can reach annual salaries of $300,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Achieving this level often requires advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of innovation and project management.

What does a Senior Automotive Engineer do?

A Senior Automotive Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and improving vehicles and their systems. They lead engineering teams, oversee the testing of prototypes, and ensure that automotive designs meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. Senior Automotive Engineers also collaborate with other departments, manage project timelines and budgets, and mentor junior engineers. Their expertise helps bring innovative and efficient vehicles to market.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior automotive engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles or specialized engineering positions in the automotive industry. Highly experienced engineers with advanced skills, leadership responsibilities, or working in high-demand sectors may reach this level, often supplemented by bonuses and stock options.

What is the highest paid automotive engineer?

Senior automotive engineers with specialized skills in electric vehicles, autonomous systems, or advanced powertrains tend to earn the highest salaries in the field, often exceeding $120,000 annually. Leadership roles such as engineering managers or directors can earn significantly more, especially in large automotive companies or tech-focused firms.

How does a Senior Automotive Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a vehicle development project?

Senior Automotive Engineers frequently work with cross-functional teams, including designers, software developers, manufacturing specialists, and quality assurance experts. They often lead technical discussions, ensure that engineering requirements are understood across departments, and facilitate problem-solving when challenges arise in the development process. This collaborative environment helps integrate various disciplines to achieve project goals, meet safety and regulatory standards, and deliver innovative solutions. Effective communication and leadership are key to successfully navigating these collaborations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Automotive Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Automotive Engineer, you need strong expertise in automotive design, engineering principles, and a relevant degree such as mechanical or automotive engineering, often supplemented by several years of industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of regulatory standards are typically required, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) being advantageous. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills to excel in project management and cross-functional collaboration. These skills ensure innovative solutions, adherence to safety and quality standards, and successful project delivery in the competitive automotive industry.

What is the difference between Senior Automotive Engineer vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectSenior Automotive EngineerAutomotive Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Industrial Design Engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, testing facilities, manufacturing plantsDesign studios, CAD labs, prototype workshops
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, suppliers, R&D centersAutomotive OEMs, design firms, engineering consultancies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Senior Automotive Engineer and an Automotive Design Engineer lies in their focus areas. Senior Automotive Engineers typically oversee vehicle systems, testing, and integration, while Automotive Design Engineers concentrate on creating vehicle aesthetics and conceptual designs. Both roles require engineering backgrounds, but their daily tasks and specializations differ significantly.

More about Senior Automotive Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Automotive Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Automotive Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Automotive Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Automotive Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Automotive Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Automotive Engineer jobs are:
Senior Automotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Automotive Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Senior Automotive Engineer

Birdon America, Inc.

New Orleans, LA • On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description


This position is remote with travel to Australia

Roles and Responsibilities:

This Senior Automotive Engineer role is primarily an Engineering and Integration design position reporting to the Lead Automotive Engineer within the Birdon Project Delivery Team. This position supports and where assigned, leads the automotive design activities and engagement with the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) providing guidance and ensuring the integrity, compliance, and effectiveness of the technical and design solutions related to the Automotive and Land Mobility scopes within our defence design and production project. As the Senior Automotive Engineer, you are responsible for overseeing all assigned aspects of the Automotive Systems and Land Mobility scope delivery and engaging with other team members across the technical and project scopes to ensure your scope delivery into the integrated project outcomes.

Qualifications / Skills / Experience:

  • 5 Years proven experience in a senior automotive engineering role and considered expert within the heavy vehicle automotive industry
  • Degree qualification in relevant engineering field
  • In-depth knowledge of relevant regulations, standards, and best practices governing heavy vehicle design and construction
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to balance technical, operational, and commercial considerations
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities, with a track record of effectively engaging stakeholders and leading
  • Familiarity with design software, simulation tools, and project management methodologies commonly
  • used in project environments.

Birdon offers a full benefits package including:

Health/Dental/Vision

EAP/Life

STD/LTD

401(k) with company match (pre- and post-tax options)

Vacation/Sick accrual and holiday pay

Tuition reimbursement program

Employee referral program

Pet Insurance

Birdon is committed to the HEALTH and SAFETY of our workforce and to the ENVIRONMENT we expect this same commitment from all employees.

As a Federal Contractor, Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background and drug screening, conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

*At our Pensacola, FL location you must also successfully obtain a TWIC card for location access.

Birdon America Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. Know Your Rights. The Company invites any applicant and/or employee to review the Company’s written Affirmative Action Plan. This plan is available for inspection upon request by emailing hr@birdon.us. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact hr@birdon.us for further assistance.