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Vehicle Development Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ZF

Vehicle Development Engineer

Livonia, MI · Hybrid

What you can look forward to as a Vehicle Development Engineer: * Vehicle calibration of Antilock Braking (ABS), Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and other systems to ...

TRG

Vehicle Cost Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

SWJ TECHNOLOGY, LLC

Development Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

We are currently seeking a Development Engineer for an assigned project with a client in the ... Support bench and vehicle testing, simulation activities, and root cause analysis. * Collaborate ...

SWJ TECHNOLOGY, LLC

Development Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

We are currently seeking a Development Engineer for an assigned project with a client in the ... Support bench and vehicle testing, simulation activities, and root cause analysis. * Collaborate ...

ArcelorMittal

Product Development Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

Our advanced steel solutions help the world's leading automakers build vehicles that are safer, lighter, and more sustainable. As a Product Development Engineer, you'll work directly with global ...

ArcelorMittal

Product Development Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Our advanced steel solutions help the world's leading automakers build vehicles that are safer, lighter, and more sustainable. As a Product Development Engineer, you'll work directly with global ...

TRG

Vehicle Cost Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

We are looking for multiple Cost Engineers with a Design/Release or Product Development background ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

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All JobsVehicle Development Engineer JobsVehicle Development Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Vehicle Development Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$42.7K

$83.8K

$133.8K

How much do vehicle development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for vehicle development engineer in Michigan is $83,808.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,300.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Vehicle Development Engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles or highly specialized positions in the automotive industry. Senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD, simulation, and project management, or those working in leadership or consulting roles may reach this level of compensation, often supplemented by bonuses and stock options.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior vehicle development engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like electric vehicles or autonomous systems, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives, particularly in leading automotive or technology companies.

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

To thrive as a Vehicle Development Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with vehicle systems and design principles. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or Simulink, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as ISO/TS 16949 are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and project management skills help you collaborate effectively and drive innovation. These competencies are crucial for designing safe, efficient, and market-ready vehicles in a highly competitive industry.

What are Vehicle Development Engineers?

Vehicle Development Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test vehicles or vehicle systems to ensure they meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. They work on the overall development process, which includes concept design, prototyping, testing, and refinement of both mechanical and electronic systems. Their role often involves collaboration with other engineers, project managers, and manufacturers to bring innovative vehicles from concept to production. Vehicle Development Engineers play a critical part in advancing automotive technology, including electric and autonomous vehicles.

What does a vehicle development engineer do?

A vehicle development engineer designs, tests, and improves vehicles to meet safety, performance, and efficiency standards. They work with CAD software, conduct prototype testing, and analyze data to optimize vehicle systems throughout the development process.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Vehicle Development Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and testing, and working in high-paying industries such as automotive or aerospace can earn $200,000 or more annually. Senior engineers, those with specialized expertise, or those in managerial roles are more likely to reach this salary level.

How does a Vehicle Development Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the design and testing phases?

Vehicle Development Engineers work closely with a variety of teams such as design, manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance throughout the vehicle development process. During the design phase, they coordinate with designers to ensure that conceptual models are practical and meet engineering standards. In the testing phase, they partner with test engineers to analyze performance data and resolve any issues that arise. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Vehicle Development Engineers often act as a bridge between technical and non-technical departments to ensure project goals are met on time and within budget.
What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Development Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Vehicle Development Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Development Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Development Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Vehicle Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Development Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $83,808 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
Vehicle Development Engineer

Vehicle Development Engineer

ZF

Livonia, MI • Hybrid

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

ZF rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

359th of 433 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

 Req ID 88613 | Livonia Tech II, United States ZF Active Safety US Inc.

Job Description

About the team:
We are looking for a new colleague in our Vehicle Development team at our location in Livonia, MI! The Chassis Solutions Division of ZF North America offers application specific solutions for a variety of different automotive Steering, Braking, Suspension and Chassis Components. Continued growth in our Livonia, MI office has created an opportunity for an experienced professional to join our team!

Vehicle development and calibration using the latest in brake-by-wire and electronic brake control hardware from ZF in Livonia, MI.  Develop slip control calibrations and grasp how ZF provides a safer driving environment for those on the road today.

What you can look forward to as a Vehicle Development Engineer:

  • Vehicle calibration of Antilock Braking (ABS), Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and other systems to provide stable vehicle dynamics to balance stopping distance, acceleration, lateral displacement, brake squeal, road roughness, pedal feel, thermal, etc. 
  • Interface with vehicle architecture, not limited to, steering angle, wheel speeds, inertial sensor (IMU), powertrain.
  • Utilize vehicle CAN bus communications.
  • Work with customer OEMs to meet subjective and objective requirements.
  • Resolve engineering issues associated with ECU and vehicle interfaces.  
  • Maintain documentation and generate reports as required.
  • Contribute to internal vehicle development team meetings to coordinate timing for deliveries and develop issue resolution.
  • Participate in checkout and sign-off for deliverables.
  • Capture and review performance data for optimal vehicle calibration changes.
  • Schedule and conduct vehicle testing at customer or ZF facilities.
  • Process data through Hardware in the Loop (HIL) and/or Software in the Loop (SIL) environments.

Your profile as a Vehicle Development Engineer:

  • Minimum of Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field. 
  • Must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.  
  • Proficient in MS Excel, Word, Powerpoint.  Knowledge of programming languages a plus.
  • Valid Vehicle Driver's license required.  Vehicle dynamics license/certification preferred.
  • Ability to travel for winter vehicle testing, or other as required.

ZF does not offer visa sponsorship for this role (e.g., H-1B, TN), and candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship by ZF now or in the future. This role also does not include any immigration-related support, including-but not limited to-being listed on government forms, providing documentation for work authorization, coordinating with universities, or participating in training plans or other procedures related to visa status (e.g., H-1B, TN, F-1 OPT/CPT, J-1, O-1, L-1, E-3, and any other status requiring employer sponsorship or immigration-related support). IF YOU REQUIRE ANY FORM OF VISA SPONSORSHIP OR ANY IMMIGRATION SUPPORT NOW OR IN THE FUTURE, PLEASE DO NOT APPLY.

Why you should choose ZF in Livonia, MI?

  • A supportive collaborative team environment
  • Annual Incentive Plan
  • Paid Vacation
  • Personal Time
  • 401k Plan
  • Health Care Benefits
  • Paid Holidays (13 fixed holidays)
  • A Hybrid Work Schedule (2 days remote/3 days onsite)
  • Tuition reimbursement for educational advancement
  • A strong diversity culture
  • Supportive Employee Groups and community outreach activities
     

Join a fast moving, fast learning, cross functional agile development team and apply now!

Be part of our ZF team as Vehicle Development Engineer and apply now!

Contact

Bethany Vijayakumar

DIVERSITY COMMITMENT: 
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are more than just words for us. They are at the core of the ZF Way that propels our team members towards their utmost success. We strive to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is a natural reflex. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that every member of ZF can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape next generation mobility, safety, sustainability and social justice. 

With four generations across 118 nationalities in 41 countries, ZF combines a unique variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas. Together, we solve problems, drive innovation and shape next generation mobility. 

Our company is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity and to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment with us and are in need of accommodation or special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please contact us. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. ZF is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran

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