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Senior Automotive Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

IAC Group

Senior Mechanisms Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Kinematics Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and ... This role focuses on interior automotive mechanisms such as cupholder doors, sliding armrests ...

JMJ PHILLIP

Sr. Sales Engineer - Passengers

Novi, MI · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

We are seeking a Sr. Sales Engineer - Passengers to join a dynamic team supporting business growth ... Exposure to innovative automotive technologies and customer-facing engineering projects.

New

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All JobsAutomotive Engineer JobsSenior Automotive Engineer JobsSenior Automotive Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Senior Automotive Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$51.9K

$110.3K

$159.9K

How much do senior automotive engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automotive engineer in Michigan is $110,306.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,100.00 and $125,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior automotive engineer?

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.

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 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.

What type of senior automotive engineers make the most money?

Senior automotive engineers specializing in advanced powertrain systems, autonomous vehicle technology, or electric vehicle development tend to earn the highest salaries. Engineers with expertise in software integration, systems engineering, and those holding professional certifications or advanced degrees often command higher compensation due to their specialized skills and industry demand.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Senior Automotive Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Senior Automotive Engineer job openings:

Senior Automotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Automotive Engineer job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,306 per year, or $53 per hour.

Senior Engineer, IID Switches Design Responsible Engineer - On-Site

IAV Automotive Engineering Inc

Novi, MI

$98K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

IAV is offering exciting opportunities to join dynamic teams with exposure to top tier projects!

IAV Group is an engineering and technical consultancy servicing the global automotive industry with approximately 7,000 employees worldwide and more than 40 years of experience. As a recognized leader in the specification, design, development, validation and production launch of advanced vehicle and powertrain systems, IAV Automotive Engineering deploys a leading team of technical experts, engineering tools and program processes from its North American Headquarters in Novi, Michigan.

IAV is currently seeking a highly motivated Senior Engineer, IID Switches Design Responsible Engineer (DRE). You will lead the design, development, validation, and launch of electrical switches and switch modules that deliver exceptional customer experiences while meeting the highest standards of quality, reliability, safety, and performance.

You will serve as the technical owner for switch-related hardware systems, collaborating across engineering, design, purchasing, manufacturing, software, and supplier teams to bring innovative vehicle solutions from concept through production.

Essential Responsibilities & Activities:

  • Own the design, development, release, validation, and launch of electrical switches and switch modules.
  • Lead switch development from concept through production for rugged SUV and pick-up programs.
  • Develop technical specifications and support sourcing activities with Studio, Concept, Purchasing, and Finance teams.
  • Manage suppliers to achieve cost, quality, timing, and performance targets.
  • Define and execute design verification and validation plans with suppliers.
  • Lead virtual and physical testing and drive issue resolution through program milestones.
  • Define electrical interfaces aligned with vehicle EE architecture, power distribution, grounding, diagnostics, and communication networks.
  • Collaborate with software and systems teams on switch functionality, diagnostics, and fault handling.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, automotive regulations, and U.S. government requirements.
  • Drive continuous improvement of switch systems based on customer experience and market needs.
  • Support a collaborative, high-performing engineering culture and mentor team members as needed.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 15+ years of automotive experience in electromechanical components, with a strong focus on switch design and development.
  • Experience across the full product development cycle, including design, testing, validation, launch, and production support.
  • Strong expertise in: Human-Machine Interface (HMI) systems; switches and electromechanical components; Six Sigma problem-solving and design methodologies; design verification and validation processes.
  • Knowledge of vehicle diagnostics, DTCs, and switch fault management.
  • Familiarity with CAE tools.
  • Experience working with Industrial Design and CMF (Color, Material, and Finish) requirements.
  • Understanding of light, color harmony, switch haptics, and mechanical design.
  • Proven supplier management experience, including Tier 1 and sub-tier suppliers, from concept through post-SOP.
  • Experience with electric vehicle (EV) systems.
  • Knowledge of vehicle electrical/electronic architectures.
  • German language proficiency preferred.
  • Willingness to travel, as needed.

Benefits

  • 401K with company matching
  • PTO (Paid Time Off) starts at 20days/year with 1 day accumulation per year
  • Health/Dental/Vision insurance starts on date of hire
  • Health saving account
  • Flexible spending account
  • Life insurance
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability (covered 100% premium)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Training and Development
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee Discount
  • Referral program

Apply