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Vehicle Development Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Vehicle Cost Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI ยท On-site

$40 - $44/hr

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 ...

Manufacturing Engineer - Reliability

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$129K - $193K/yr

Description We are seeking a Manufacturing Development Engineer to own the development and implementation of the quality thesis in a cutting-edge launch vehicle factory. This is an opportunity to ...

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Vehicle Development Engineer information

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$49K

$96.2K

$153.5K

How much do vehicle development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for vehicle development engineer in the United States is $96,155.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
More about Vehicle Development Engineer jobs
What states have the most Vehicle Development Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Vehicle Development Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Vehicle Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,155 per year, or $46.2 per hour.
Development Engineer

Development Engineer

SWJ TECHNOLOGY, LLC

Novi, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

SWJ Technologie specializes in providing engineering, planning, and project management services across various industries. We are currently seeking a Development Engineer for an assigned project with a client in the automotive industry. The role is based in Novi, MI or Charlotte NC and requires onsite presence and 20% domestics travel. If you are eager to grow your career and make a meaningful impact on exciting projects, we look forward to your application.
PURPOSE:ย 
We are seeking a Development Engineer to lead the design, development, and release of components and subsystems within Energy Systems, including Thermal, Climate, Energy Management, 12V systems, and HV Battery (BMS). This role combines technical ownership, system-level responsibility, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver robust, production-ready automotive solutions.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lead the design, development, and release of assigned components or subsystems, acting as technical owner and SME throughout the lifecycle.
  • Develop and maintain CAD models, engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
  • Ensure design compatibility with packaging, manufacturing, assembly, and service requirements.
  • Lead design reviews and DFMEA activities to ensure robust and mature designs.
  • Manage BOMs, part numbers, and engineering releases using PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter).
  • Ensure all deliverables meet program requirements for timing, cost, and quality.
  • Define and execute DVP&R plans for component and system validation.
  • Support bench and vehicle testing, simulation activities, and root cause analysis.
  • Collaborate with test teams and laboratories to ensure requirement compliance and validation coverage.
  • Interface with suppliers to communicate requirements, review designs, and resolve technical issues.
  • Evaluate supplier proposals and manage engineering changes (ECR/ECN).
  • Work cross-functionally with program management, manufacturing, purchasing, quality, and service teams.
  • Support prototype builds, pilot production, and series launch activities.
  • Apply simulation and analytical methods to optimize performance, efficiency, and robustness.
  • Coordinate component and system-level testing, including instrumentation and evaluation of test results.
  • Prepare and maintain detailed technical documentation, reports, and engineering records.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelorโ€™s or Masterโ€™s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, or Systems Engineering (or related field)
  • Experience in automotive product development or system engineering roles
  • Hands-on experience in component or subsystem ownership

ย REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Strong experience in product development and component design
  • Knowledge of:
    • Thermal and HVAC systems
    • Energy management systems
    • 12V electrical systems
    • HV battery systems (BMS)
  • Experience with CAD tools and engineering documentation
  • Familiarity with PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter)
  • Understanding of DFMEA, DVP&R, and validation processes
  • Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills
  • Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment
  • Effective communication and coordination skills

REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Experience with Volkswagen
  • Experience with EV/HEV systems
  • Knowledge of manufacturing and assembly processes
  • Experience with supplier management and sourcing
  • Familiarity with simulation tools (thermal, electrical, or system-level)
  • Experience supporting vehicle launches
  • Understanding of quality processes and change management (ECR/ECN)
  • Willingness to travel

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Work is normally performed in an office, laboratory, manufacturing floor, or machine shop setting where physical work includes, but is not limited to sitting, standing, reaching, kneeling, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs.
  • Must be able to understand and comply with all relevant safety practices.

FLSA STATUS/WORKING SCHEDULE:
  • Location: Novi, MI or Charlotte NC
  • Schedule: Full Time/ 40 hours per week
  • Travel: 20% domestics travel
  • Overtime: as required
  • Assignment Start: June 2026 โ€“ December 2030
  • Duration: up to 4.5 years

DISCLAIMER:
This job description is a high-level overview of general expectations of this position. It is not intended to list every responsibility of the position, nor does it represent an employment contract of any kind.
ย 

SWJ TECHNOLOGY and all of its subsidiaries (i.e., NGE EQUIPMENT and ProjectOne US) are Equal Opportunity Employers and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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