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Senior Automotive Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Farmington, MI · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Pilot Systems International is an automotive systems engineering company with a core team that ... We have an opening for a Senior Systems Engineer who will work with the Pilot team as we help one ...

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Senior Automotive Systems Engineer information

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$124.7K

$176K

How much do senior automotive systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automotive systems engineer in the United States is $124,732.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Automotive Systems Engineer vs Automotive Software Engineer?

AspectSenior Automotive Systems EngineerAutomotive Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Science or related field, certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesign, integration, and testing of vehicle systems in automotive industryDevelopment and coding of automotive software applications
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive OEMs, suppliers, R&D centersAutomotive manufacturers, tech companies, suppliers

The Senior Automotive Systems Engineer focuses on integrating and testing vehicle systems, while the Automotive Software Engineer specializes in developing automotive software. Both roles require technical expertise but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets.

What are some typical challenges faced by Senior Automotive Systems Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing vehicle platforms?

Senior Automotive Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, meeting strict automotive safety and reliability standards, and managing cross-functional collaboration between hardware, software, and testing teams. Navigating complex regulatory requirements and balancing innovation with cost and time constraints are also common hurdles. Success in this role often relies on strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving within multidisciplinary project teams.

What does a Senior Automotive Systems Engineer do?

A Senior Automotive Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and integrating complex automotive systems, such as powertrains, infotainment, or safety features, within vehicles. They lead cross-functional teams, ensure system requirements are met, and oversee testing and validation processes. Their role often involves collaborating with hardware, software, and manufacturing teams to deliver high-quality and reliable vehicle systems. Additionally, they play a key part in troubleshooting and improving system performance to meet industry standards and customer expectations.

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

To thrive as a Senior Automotive Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in automotive engineering, embedded systems, and systems integration, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, CAN bus analyzers, and automotive standards such as ISO 26262 is crucial, along with experience in model-based design and software development. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set outstanding engineers apart in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring the safety, reliability, and innovation of complex automotive systems in a rapidly evolving industry.
What cities are hiring for Senior Automotive Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Automotive Systems Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Automotive Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Automotive Systems Engineer jobs include:

Senior Automotive Systems Engineer

Bertrandt

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$102K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description:

Ready to Drive the Future?


As part of the global Bertrandt Group, our team of innovators tackles cutting-edge projects across ADAS, Autonomous Driving, Electric Mobility, and Manufacturing Support, transforming complex issues into sustainable, connected solutions.


With the strength of a global network of over 14,500 colleagues in 50+ locations, Bertrandt US combines deep expertise in Electronics, Product Engineering, Physical, and Production & After Sales. Join us in engineering tomorrow’s mobility today.


Summary:


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 commodities.


This role requires hands on ownership across all development phases, deep supplier interaction, and proven fluency in Volkswagen Group engineering processes, tools, and release systems on ownership across all development phases


Candidates without direct exposure to VW Group processes typically struggle to be effective in this environment.


Roles and Responsibilities


System & Component Ownership:

  • Engineering responsibility for assigned commodities (Interior / Exterior / Trim preferred)
  • Support system development from concept through SOP
  • Ownership of Post B-Release changes through production
  • Ensure compliance with engineering, safety, quality, and manufacturing requirements

VW Release & Data Management:

  • Manage and support B-Release and Post B-Release activities
  • Ensure correct CAD data release into VW KVS systems
  • Coordinate supplier data uploads and ensure buildready data status
  • Maintain data integrity across development and build phases

Supplier & Interface Management:

  • Act as technical interface between OEM engineering, suppliers, and manufacturing
  • Drive part updates and design changes to support:
  • Manufacturing feasibility
  • Performance improvements
  • Interface changes to surrounding systems
  • Ensure tooling timing aligns with prototype, preproduction, and production builds

Testing, Validation & Launch Support :

  • Support and/or lead DV / PV testing activities
  • Own issue resolution during:
  • Prototype builds
  • Preproduction builds
  • Production ramp up
  • Provide onsite build support as required (including plant locations)

Quality & Engineering Processes:

  • Apply and review DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans
  • Support engineering studies and issue root cause resolution
  • Ensure production readiness and quality maturity at SOP
Requirements:
  • 6+ years of automotive engineering experience in relevant systems
  • Proven experience across all vehicle development phases
  • Strong technical depth in Interior / Exterior / Trim systems
  • Handson experience with CATIA V5 and/or CATIA V6
  • Sectioning, packaging studies, interface checks
  • Solid understanding of OEM quality and release processes
  • Willingness to support onsite build activities
  • Fluent in English (spoken and written)
  • Strongly Preferred / Key Differentiators (VW Filter)

Candidates will be strongly prioritized if they demonstrate:

  • Volkswagen Group background
    (VW, Audi, Porsche, Scout, Cariad, or Tier1 suppliers with VW core business)
  • Direct experience with:
  • BRelease / PostBRelease ownership
  • Supplier CAD upload into VW systems
  • Natural fluency in VW engineering termi release structures and “OEM systems” knowledge