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Vehicle Development Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Toyota

R&D Summer 2026 Co-op

Saline, MI · On-site

At Toyota Research and Development (R&D), we're working to build a future where everyone has the freedom to move, with a focus on vehicle design and development, procurement, supplier engineering ...

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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 Exterior Trim Lead / Project Engineer

Vehicle Exterior Trim Lead / Project Engineer

Kelly Services

Auburn Hills, MI

$51 - $56/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Vehicle Exterior Trim Lead / Project Engineer
  • Location: (ONSITE) - Auburn Hills, Michigan (48326)
  • Duration: 12+ month contract (Contract extension expectation and internal hire possibilities)
  • Type: W2 contract (C2C OR THIRD PARTY arrangements will NOT be considered for this role)
  • Pay: Negotiable depending on direct-related experience UP to $51 - $56 an hour
  • Work Authorization: Must be currently in the United States with active employment authorization documents without current sponsorship transfer requirements. Sponsorship is unavailable for this role.

Job Summary:

As a Project Chief for this Vehicle Exterior Trim, you will be responsible to lead and coordinate the design, development, and validation activities for Exterior Trim systems for assigned vehicle programs. This includes responsibilities to meet quality, cost, investment, weight, timing, technical and specified functional objectives.

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):
  • Coordination of supplier and sourcing activities, issue resolution, authoring source packages, GIMS management, part change management (including cost collaboration) and Engineering Design & Development (EDD) management.
  • Matrix interaction/leadership of assigned design and development engineers to achieve stated objectives.
  • Matrix interaction and taking direction from the subject vehicle line Body Sub-System Technical Manager (VSR - Previously known as PR).
Must-Have Qualifications
  • Automotive engineering experience required
  • 5–7+ years of experience (stronger candidates with additional experience will be considered)
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering required
  • Experience with vehicle development and launch activities from concept through production
  • Strong program/project coordination experience within automotive product development
  • Experience with exterior trim systems, including: Fascias/Bumpers, Cladding, Moldings, Badges & other exterior plastic components
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related degree field.
  • 5-7 years of engineering design and development experience.
  • Excellent communication and organization skills, with confidence and persuasive skills in presenting to Senior Management.
  • Vehicle launch experience.
  • Demonstrated strong written and verbal skills.
  • Proven ability to work & lead in a team environment.

Work Authorization: Must be currently in the United States with active employment authorization documents without current sponsorship transfer requirements. Sponsorship is unavailable for this role.

Important information: To be immediately considered, please send an updated version of your resume to Deas172@kellyservices.com.

*** (Kelly does not expense relocation/interview costs)**


As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Why Kelly® Engineering?

Your engineering skills are in demand, but how do you find the right fit? Easy. At Kelly Engineering, our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world’s most critical challenges. We connect you with leading organizations where you can collaborate on innovative projects, work with cutting-edge technologies and accelerate your growth. Whether you prefer the variety and flexibility of short-term projects or are looking for a long-term opportunity, we’re here to guide you to the next step in your engineering career.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.

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