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Vehicle Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Engineering; Project Engineering; Project Management Location: Washington, DC, United States Join a company that is passionately committed to the pursuit of a better world through positive change.

Engineering; Project Engineering; Project Management Location: Washington, DC, United States Join a company that is passionately committed to the pursuit of a better world through positive change.

Engineering; Project Engineering; Project Management Location: Washington, DC, United States Join a company that is passionately committed to the pursuit of a better world through positive change.

Provide Government with space vehicle and sub-systems engineering support and recommended inputs and courses of action for technical and programmatic topics. * Oversee multidisciplinary system level ...

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... The Space Vehicle Engineer will work daily on-site with the Government to provide advice and ...

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... The Space Vehicle Engineer will work daily on-site with the Government to provide advice and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Vehicle Engineering information

See Washington salary details

$28

$46

$59

How much do vehicle engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle engineering in Washington is $46.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $45.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior vehicle engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like powertrain, autonomous systems, or aerospace integration, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level engineering roles often require leadership responsibilities, advanced certifications, and work in industries such as automotive manufacturing or aerospace technology.

What is the highest salary for a car engineer?

The highest salaries for vehicle engineers, including car engineers, can exceed $120,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and simulation tools, or leadership roles in the automotive industry. Top earners often work in senior engineering, management, or specialized research positions.

What does a vehicle engineer do?

A vehicle engineer designs, develops, and tests vehicles and their components, such as engines, chassis, and safety systems. They use engineering principles, CAD software, and testing facilities to improve vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency, often working in teams and adhering to industry standards.

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 understanding of mechanical and automotive engineering principles, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, vehicle simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications like SAE or ISO are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help drive innovation and project success. These competencies are vital for designing safe, efficient vehicles and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams in a highly competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in vehicle engineering, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Vehicle engineering professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing regulatory compliance with innovation, managing tight project deadlines, and integrating new technologies into existing vehicle platforms. Applicants can prepare by staying up to date with industry standards, developing strong project management skills, and gaining familiarity with emerging trends like electric and autonomous vehicles. Collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams—including design, manufacturing, and software engineers—is also crucial for success in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Vehicle Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectVehicle EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Vehicle Engineering; certifications in automotive designBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; professional engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentAutomotive companies, R&D labs, manufacturing plantsFactories, design firms, research labs across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily automotive, transportation, motorsportsBroad industry applications including aerospace, manufacturing, energy
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Vehicle Engineering focuses specifically on designing, developing, and testing vehicles and automotive systems, often requiring specialized knowledge of automotive components. Mechanical Engineering offers a broader scope, covering various mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both fields share foundational engineering principles and credentials, Vehicle Engineering is more specialized for automotive applications.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What is vehicle engineering?

Vehicle engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design, development, manufacturing, and testing of vehicles such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, and buses. It combines elements of mechanical, electrical, electronic, software, and safety engineering to create vehicles that are efficient, safe, and reliable. Vehicle engineers work on everything from the engine and transmission to aerodynamics and onboard systems, ensuring that all components work together seamlessly.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Vehicle Engineering jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Vehicle Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Vehicle Engineering job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,731 per year, or $46 per hour.
Project Manager - Rail Vehicle

Project Manager - Rail Vehicle

Hatch

Washington, DC

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Requisition ID: 96987 

Job Category: Infrastructure; Consulting; Engineering; Project Engineering; Project Management 

Location: Washington, DC, United States 
 

Join a company that is passionately committed to the pursuit of a better world through positive change. With more than 65 years of business and technical expertise in mining, energy, and infrastructure, our 10,000 colleagues in 150 countries tirelessly work toward bettering the industries in which we operate. With practical solutions that are safe, innovative and sustainable, we think globally while acting locally. Are you looking for an opportunity to join a diverse group of professionals who are committed to remaining exceptional? We look forward to hearing from you.

Our expertise in infrastructure includes aviation, highways and bridges, planning and advisory services, ports, rail and transit, tunnels, and water. Want to be part of the creation and construction of our cities? Then the infrastructure team is for you!
 

Looking to take the next step in your career?

 

HATCH is currently seeking a highly motivated Project Manager – Rail Vehicles to join our North American Infrastructure Practice in our vehicle mechanical engineering group in our Greenbelt, DC office.

The ideal candidate must possess broad-based knowledge of rail vehicle mechanical or electrical engineering. And have experience with project management on rail vehicle projects.  Additional qualifications desired include experience in conducting fleet inspections, knowledge of general maintenance shop practices and processes, and equipment installation in a rail or industrial environment.

The candidate must demonstrate a high work ethic; be willing to work independently or under limited instruction; be able to interact well with customer staff in a field environment; and demonstrate strong communication and organizational skills including team management, project management, multitasking, and meeting deadlines. PE registration is desirable but not required. Both domestic and foreign travel may be required.

As the successful candidate, you will:

  • Provide project management and engineering support.
  • Manage project task orders and monitor budgets, project deliverables, and project resources to ensure successful delivery of projects.
  • Provide direction and monitor the work of junior staff.
  • Serve as a technical mentor and help develop staff skills.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to our clients, helping to deliver technically complex and cost-effective design solutions.
  • Hands-on engineering work within the light rail, subway, and commuter rail environment including investigations of equipment malfunctions, modifications and reporting findings.
  • Develop technical specifications for the new and upgraded train equipment and systems.
  • Review design submittals and prepare detailed descriptions of review findings.
  • Participate in formal design review meetings and technical working sessions.
  • Inspect and review prototype and first article equipment and prepare detailed descriptions of review findings.
  • Prepare reports that identify work progress, defects/non-conformances, and areas of concern.
  • Participate in quality assurance and manufacturing audits.
  • Engineering changes, client relations and safety of various projects to ensure quality, client satisfaction, and profitability of projects.
  • Assist in pursuits, client relationship building efforts, and building technical excellence within the group.

You bring to the role:

  • Bachelors degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering is desirable.
  • At least 10 years of relevant experience in rail vehicle engineering, including commuter rail, freight rail or transit projects with a proven track record in railway engineering and project management.
  • Respect in the rail industry, with knowledge of the local market, and respected connections in the Transit Authority market.
  • Experience in managing the engineering aspect of projects.
  • Experience in rail operations, train planning, rail equipment maintenance facility design and track maintenance will be beneficial.
  • Experience managing multi-disciplinary teams in a rail or transit project environment.

Why join us?

  • Work with great people to make a difference
  • Collaborate on exciting projects to develop innovative solutions
  • Top employer


What we offer you?

  • Flexible work environment
  • Long term career development
  • Think globally, work locally

Don't meet every single requirement? You don't need to. At Hatch, we are building a diverse, inclusive workplace that fosters innovation. If you're interested in this role, we encourage you to apply even if your past experiences don't perfectly align with the skills we've listed.

We're committed to fostering a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we operate and serve. Hatch is an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants without regard to age, race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran, or any other protected status. If you have any accommodation requirements, please let us know. We'll do our best to meet your needs in accordance with applicable local legislation.

#LI-RC1 #HATCHUS 

Base Compensation: $150,000 - $230,000 (Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)