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Vehicle Crash Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Waltonen

Vehicle Test Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

Waltonen Engineering is looking for a Vehicle Test Engineer to join our team! Responsibilities: * Engineering analysis/support of military vehicles * Prepare plans with detailed drawings that include ...

ROUSH

Vehicle Test Engineer II

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

Job Summary The Vehicle Test Engineer II will support test procedure execution, for full vehicles, on test track or road surfaces, at the request of Program or Design Engineers, for attributes such ...

MGA Research Corporation

Test Technician

Lincoln, AL · On-site

Full vehicle crash * Dynamic sled * Airbag deployment and analysis * Static strength * Life cycle ... Active communication with project engineers during test execution to ensure customer's technical ...

ROUSH

Vehicle Test Engineer II

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

Job Summary The Vehicle Test Engineer II will support test procedure execution, for full vehicles, on test track or road surfaces, at the request of Program or Design Engineers, for attributes such ...

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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 6, 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.

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.

How to become a crash test engineer?

To become a crash test engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with vehicle safety testing, understanding crash dynamics, and proficiency with testing equipment and data analysis are essential; certifications in safety standards or testing procedures can also enhance prospects.

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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Vehicle Crash/Reconstruction Forensic Expert (ACTAR background)

Vehicle Crash/Reconstruction Forensic Expert (ACTAR background)

Robson Forensic

Lancaster, PA • Hybrid

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Vehicle Crash / Reconstruction Expert

You have 5+ years of experience as an ACTAR-certified reconstructionist working real-world vehicle collision investigations; experienced with scene investigations, event data recorder downloads, scene mapping, and post-collision vehicle inspection. Ability to write investigation reports and explain reconstruction methodologies is a must.

The ideal candidate for this role is a capable ACTAR-certified reconstructionist looking to grow their analytical abilities, training, and apply the latest technologies to advanced reconstructions.

You are already an expert. Robson Forensic will train you to be a forensic expert.

As a Vehicle Crash / Reconstruction Expert, you will:

  • Investigate vehicle crash incidents.
  • Analyze vehicle collision events, applying your comprehensive knowledge of crash reconstruction methods and tools.
  • Write clear, scientifically sound reports.
  • Provide expert testimony.

You will delve into the "why" behind incidents, critically assessing decision-making, operational procedures, and the standard of care. This role offers you a chance to:

  • Use your cumulative training, experience, and critical thinking skills.
  • Collaborate with highly respected experts.
  • Continuously learn and grow as an expert in your field.
  • Make a tangible difference in litigation.

LOCATION: Lancaster, PA (hybrid)

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Certification: ACTAR-certified reconstructionist
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in related field from an ABET-accredited college preferred.
  • Experience: 5+ years of experience as an ACTAR-certified reconstructionist working real-world vehicle collision investigations; experienced with scene investigations, event data recorder downloads, scene mapping, and post-collision vehicle inspection.
  • Knowledge: Thorough working knowledge of crash reconstruction, scene investigation, human factors for drivers' responses, and report-writing.
  • Skills: Excellent technical, analytical, writing, and communication skills.
  • Aptitude: Strong ability to translate complex technical findings into clear, objective evidence for non-technical audiences.
  • Work Style: Approximately 20% travel for inspections; the remainder is focused on analysis and report drafting, working independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Prior forensic experience is not required. We seek professionals eager to apply their deep industry knowledge to a challenging new domain.

You must have a clean background screen, a driver's license, and the ability to drive.

ABOUT US:

Robson Forensic is a national leader in expert witness consulting, providing technical expertise across many fields within engineering, architecture, science, and a broad range of specialty disciplines.

Employees at Robson Forensic work alongside highly respected experts from both industry and academia. Our forensic experts are engaged in meaningful casework that is consequential to industry and society. Robson Forensic provides a unique working dynamic that blends collaboration and autonomy.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding position, and you meet our minimum requirements, please apply, and attach your resume and cover letter (outlining your professional background and expertise).

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

Apply