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Vehicle Crash Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Slate Auto

Principal Vehicle Safety Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$123K - $185K/yr

Experience planning and executing quasi-static and dynamic crash tests * Ability to interpret test ... Engineering (Master's preferred) * 10+ years of direct automotive experience in vehicle safety ...

Rivian

Sr. Safety Test Technician

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$40.67 - $50.84/hr

Collaborate directly with Test Engineers to execute full-vehicle crash tests, sled testing, and component-level safety evaluations. * Support the installation, extraction, and shipment of critical ...

Rivian

Sr. Safety Test Technician

Buffalo, NY

$40.67 - $50.84/hr

Collaborate directly with Test Engineers to execute full-vehicle crash tests, sled testing, and component-level safety evaluations. * Support the installation, extraction, and shipment of critical ...

MGA Research Corporation

Test Engineer

Lincoln, AL · On-site

Execute vehicle crash, sled, airbag, or other component tests and report technical results in a ... General business and/or engineering sales Qualifications and Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in ...

Recar

PrincipalVehicle Safety Engineer

Troy, MI

$123K - $185K/yr

... vehicle crash programs, including fixture design specifications, test requests, test readiness ... Mentor junior engineers and influence cross-functional decisions to prioritize safety * Engage with ...

Be Additive

Vehicle Safety Test Engineer

Newark, CA · On-site

Vehicle Safety Test Engineer This position will primarily be onsite in Newark with a potential to ... This team focuses on all vehicle safety and crash testing and meet all safety and consumer ...

MGA Research Corporation

Test Engineer - CA

Hughson, CA · On-site

$71K/yr

From testing individual components within a vehicle to full scale vehicle crash tests, you have the ... Engineering Responsibilities Daily roles include customer interaction, high-level problem solving ...

Stellantis

CAE Safety Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

The Vehicle CAE Safety Engineer is responsible for developing and optimizing vehicle crash safety ... Correlate CAE performance with physical test results and document best practices for future ...

Rivian

Subject Matter Expert, Crash Structures

Irvine, CA · On-site

$171K - $213K/yr

Proven experience in system-level engineering and integration, connecting multiple vehicle domains ... tests. * Ability to innovate and develop new methods for validation, integration, and predictive ...

Rivian

Subject Matter Expert, Crash Structures

Irvine, CA · On-site

$171K - $213K/yr

Proven experience in system-level engineering and integration, connecting multiple vehicle domains ... tests. * Ability to innovate and develop new methods for validation, integration, and predictive ...

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Vehicle Crash Test Engineer information

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How much do vehicle crash test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle crash test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Vehicle Crash Test Engineer do?

A Vehicle Crash Test Engineer is responsible for planning, conducting, and analyzing crash tests to evaluate the safety and performance of vehicles during collisions. They design test protocols, operate crash test equipment, and interpret data to ensure vehicles meet regulatory and industry safety standards. Their work helps manufacturers improve vehicle designs to better protect occupants and reduce injuries in real-world accidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vehicle Crash Test Engineer, and why are they important?

A Vehicle Crash Test Engineer typically needs a strong background in mechanical or automotive engineering, experience with safety standards, and knowledge of vehicle dynamics. Proficiency in data acquisition systems, simulation software (such as LS-DYNA or MADYMO), and familiarity with crash test protocols and regulations (like FMVSS or Euro NCAP) are essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are critical soft skills for interpreting test data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure accurate testing, regulatory compliance, and the development of safer vehicles.

How do I get a job in crash testing cars?

To become a vehicle crash test engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience with safety testing, data analysis, and familiarity with crash test procedures and equipment can improve your chances, and certifications in safety standards or testing methods are beneficial.

What Does a Vehicle Crash Test Engineer Do?

A vehicle crash test engineer plans and analyzes safety tests for the automotive industry. In this role, you coordinate with other members of the manufacturing team to develop and design experiments that assess the safety capabilities of cars. An engineer places sensors and crash test dummies in the cars and makes sure that the test captures the data required to measure all necessary safety variables. Since crash tests are destructive, you may run several computer simulations before conducting a test on an actual vehicle to limit the number of physical exams. You measure the results of each crash test and present your findings to the design and production teams.

What is the highest paying automotive engineering job?

The highest paying automotive engineering roles are often senior positions such as automotive engineering managers, chief engineers, or specialized roles like vehicle safety director, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership abilities, often supported by certifications and a strong understanding of vehicle design and testing processes.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior vehicle crash test engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in safety testing can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in senior management or consulting roles within the automotive industry. High compensation often reflects leadership responsibilities, expertise in crash analysis, and working for major manufacturers or testing organizations.

What is the difference between Vehicle Crash Test Engineer vs Vehicle Safety Analyst?

AspectVehicle Crash Test EngineerVehicle Safety Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive Engineering or related; certifications like SAE or ASE beneficialBachelor's in Engineering, Safety, or related; certifications in safety standards helpful
Work EnvironmentTesting facilities, laboratories, vehicle testing tracksOffice settings, data analysis labs, safety review meetings
Industry UsageDesigning and conducting crash tests, analyzing crash dataAssessing safety protocols, reviewing crash data, recommending improvements

While both roles focus on vehicle safety, the Vehicle Crash Test Engineer primarily conducts physical crash tests and analyzes test data, whereas the Vehicle Safety Analyst reviews safety data and develops safety standards. The roles complement each other in ensuring vehicle safety and often collaborate within automotive safety teams.

How much do car crash testers make?

Vehicle crash test engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior testers or those working for government agencies may earn higher salaries, and the role often requires knowledge of safety standards and testing procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by Vehicle Crash Test Engineers during the testing process?

Vehicle Crash Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating complex test setups, ensuring precise instrumentation, and meeting strict safety and regulatory standards. They must also adapt quickly to unexpected results or equipment failures while maintaining detailed documentation. Effective communication with design, manufacturing, and data analysis teams is crucial for promptly addressing any issues and ensuring test results lead to meaningful safety improvements.
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Vehicle Crash Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Crash Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Crash Test Technician - Entry Level

MGA Research Corporation

Burlington, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Work with engineers and other team members to follow test plans and provide technical assistance.

  • Use established procedures to conduct vehicle testing, including taking photos, taking measurements, gathering data, and configuring tests.

  • Install instrumentation, test gear, and assorted components, aligning with engineering specifications, standards, and test protocols.

Job description

Crash Test Technician (Burlington, WI)
MGA Research Corporation is a renowned independent provider of testing services and equipment for the automotive, aerospace, and energy storage industries. With nine strategic locations across the US and Canada, MGA has established a strong reputation for delivering superior testing capabilities and unwavering customer service.
MGA Research Corporation is seeking a skilled and motivated full-time Crash Test Technician to join our dynamic team. The Crash Test Technician will play a pivotal role in maintaining efficient operations, supporting client interactions, and contributing to the success of our diverse projects.
Job Duties And Responsibilities
  • Work with engineers and other team members to follow test plans and provide technical assistance.
  • Use established procedures to conduct vehicle testing, including taking photos, taking measurements, gathering data, and configuring tests.
  • Install instrumentation, test gear, and assorted components, aligning with engineering specifications, standards, and test protocols.
  • Identify and diagnose technical issues or abnormalities during testing and take corrective actions to address them.
  • Maintain comprehensive records documenting all performed work.

Requirements And Skills
  • It is critical to have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record
  • Minimum of high school/GED required
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic and constantly changing environment
  • Keen attention to detail, coupled with a strong ability to identify errors
  • Proficiency with MS Office including Word, Excel and Outlook

Benefits 
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid sick/vacation/holiday
  • Yearly discretionary bonuses, profit-sharing, and raises
  • 401k matching 
  • Tuition reimbursement while employed at MGA

We aim to continue our mission in providing quality services to our customers as we seek to expand our team while contributing to the exciting world of testing.
MGA Research is an equal opportunity employer.
 

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