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Vehicle Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

TRG

Vehicle Cost Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Early-phase cost engineering estimates * Detailed "should-cost" calculations using a bottom-up manufacturing approach * Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help ...

TRG

Vehicle Cost Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Early-phase cost engineering estimates * Detailed "should-cost" calculations using a bottom-up manufacturing approach * Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help ...

Recar

Vehicle Engineering Rotational Program

Troy, MI · On-site

ABOUT SLATE At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize ... The engineer will rotate every 3-6 months in a variety of engineering-focused roles that challenge ...

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All JobsVehicle Engineer JobsVehicle Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Vehicle Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$34K

$88.7K

$119.8K

How much do vehicle engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for vehicle engineer in Michigan is $88,687.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,200.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Vehicle Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in vehicle design or manufacturing. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry-specific standards or certifications like ISO/TS 16949 is vital. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary environments. These competencies are essential to ensure innovative, safe, and efficient vehicle development that meets regulatory and market demands.

What is the difference between Vehicle Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectVehicle EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Vehicle Engineering; certifications like SAE or ASEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; optional certifications in specialized fields
Work EnvironmentAutomotive manufacturing plants, R&D labs, testing facilitiesFactories, design firms, research labs across various industries
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive companies, vehicle manufacturers, transportation firmsBroad industry use including aerospace, manufacturing, energy, and automotive

Vehicle Engineers focus specifically on designing, developing, and testing vehicles, often working within automotive companies. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working across multiple industries on various mechanical systems. While both roles require similar foundational skills, Vehicle Engineers specialize in vehicle-specific technologies and standards.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior vehicle engineers, automotive design engineers, and aerospace engineers often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in leadership roles. High salaries are common in specialized fields such as electric vehicle development, autonomous vehicle technology, and aerospace engineering, often requiring advanced degrees and certifications.

What are some common challenges Vehicle Engineers face when working on new automotive projects?

Vehicle Engineers often encounter challenges such as meeting strict safety and emission standards, integrating new technologies, and balancing cost with performance during the design and development process. They must collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including designers, manufacturing specialists, and suppliers, to ensure all components fit together seamlessly. Additionally, tight project timelines and the need for rapid prototyping can add pressure, requiring strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior vehicle engineers, automotive design engineers, and engineering managers in the automotive industry can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and simulation tools, and working for major automakers or suppliers. High-level roles often require advanced degrees and leadership responsibilities.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior vehicle engineers, especially those in executive or specialized roles such as chief engineers or lead design engineers in the automotive industry, can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation often involves extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and simulation tools, and leadership responsibilities in large companies or innovative projects.

What does a vehicle engineer do?

A vehicle engineer designs, develops, and tests vehicles and their components, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards. They often work with CAD software, perform simulations, and collaborate with manufacturing teams to improve vehicle performance and reliability.
What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Vehicle Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Vehicle Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Vehicle Engineer job openings:
Vehicle Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,687 per year, or $42.6 per hour.
OBD Development Engineer (Automotive)

OBD Development Engineer (Automotive)

TriCom Quest

Plymouth, MI • On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

An automotive company seeks a Vehicle Engineer in Plymouth, MI, to support the development, implementation, validation, and maintenance of onboard diagnostics strategies and engine management system calibrations for diesel powertrain applications. Long-term temp status.

  • $45 – 60 per hour
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Holiday Pay, Paid Time Off
  • Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Requirements of the Vehicle Engineer:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics engineering, or related
  • At least 3 years of experience in automotive or commercial vehicle engineering
  • At least 2 years of experience in OBD systems, engine controls, calibration, or powertrain development
  • Knowledge of applicable OBD regulations and industry standards
  • Familiar with diesel engine controls, emissions systems, and diagnostic strategies
  • Familiar with emissions and environmental testing methodologies (engine dyno testing)
  • Experience with calibration and measurement tools (ETAS INCA or similar)
  • Working knowledge of MATLAB/Simulink
  • Experience with CAN communication and CAN data acquisition/analysis tools
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills
  • 20-30% domestic and international travel, including overnight stays

Responsibilities of the Vehicle Engineer:

  • Develop, validate, troubleshoot, and maintain OBD diagnostic strategies and engine management calibrations for diesel powertrain programs.
  • Support diagnostic development plans, calibration integration, regulatory compliance, validation testing, issue resolution, and project documentation.
  • Track diagnostic development status and support project schedule adherence.
  • Works with calibration engineers, software developers, product teams, suppliers, and engineering partners.
  • Research emerging technologies, industry trends, and regulatory developments.
  • Other related duties as assigned

Employment Type: Long-Term Temp

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Automotive, Commercial Truck, Commercial Vehicle, Powertrain Development, Diesel Engine, Light Duty Diesel Engine, Heavy Duty Diesel Engine, Onboard Diagnostic System, Engine Management System, Emissions System, Environmental Testing, Calibration Tools, ETAS INCA, MATLAB, Simulink, CAN communication.

Company Description

TriCom Quest is a full-service employment agency serving the greater Los Angeles area. We partner with a wide range of industries, with a special focus on international companies, helping fill roles from entry level to executive leadership. Our mission is to connect employers with the right talent—and to help job seekers find positions where they can thrive and grow.