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Vehicle Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astranis

Vehicle Test Software Team Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$56 - $76.25/hr

Team Lead, Vehicle Test Team As the Team Lead of the Vehicle Test team, you will build and manage ... with other engineering teams. This role will contribute to both commercial and US Government ...

Vast

Fluids Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$112K - $159K/yr

Develop clear and robust test plans for on-vehicle checkouts, fluids, instrumentation, and high ... Mentor engineers and technicians on the team. Minimum Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in ...

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How much do vehicle test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Vehicle Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, experience with vehicle dynamics, and a relevant degree. Familiarity with data acquisition systems, automotive diagnostic tools, and software like MATLAB or CANalyzer is commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting test results and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure accurate testing, compliance with safety standards, and the successful development of reliable vehicles.

What are some common challenges faced by Vehicle Test Engineers during the testing process?

Vehicle Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected system failures, working within tight deadlines, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. They must adapt quickly to changing test requirements and environmental conditions, especially when conducting tests outdoors or on test tracks. Effective communication and collaboration with design, manufacturing, and quality teams are essential to resolve issues efficiently and deliver reliable test results.

What does a Vehicle Test Engineer do?

A Vehicle Test Engineer is responsible for designing, conducting, and analyzing tests on vehicles to ensure they meet safety, performance, and reliability standards. They work with various types of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, or specialty vehicles, and use both laboratory and real-world testing environments. Their role often involves collaborating with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to identify issues and recommend improvements. Vehicle Test Engineers also document results and ensure compliance with industry regulations. This position is crucial for ensuring that vehicles are safe, efficient, and ready for consumer use.

What is the difference between Vehicle Test Engineer vs Automotive Test Technician?

AspectVehicle Test EngineerAutomotive Test Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive Engineering or related; certifications like ISTQB or SAETechnical diploma or associate degree; certifications in vehicle systems or testing
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, test tracks, vehicle development facilitiesTesting facilities, repair shops, on-road testing environments
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, R&D departments, testing agenciesVehicle service centers, testing companies, manufacturing plants

Vehicle Test Engineers focus on designing and overseeing vehicle testing procedures, analyzing data, and improving vehicle performance. Automotive Test Technicians perform hands-on testing, maintenance, and data collection during vehicle testing phases. Both roles are essential in vehicle development but differ mainly in their responsibilities and level of technical involvement.

More about Vehicle Test Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Vehicle Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Vehicle Test Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Vehicle Test Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Vehicle Test Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Vehicle Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Vehicle Test Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Test Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Test Engineer jobs are:
Vehicle Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Vehicle Test Coordinator

Vehicle Test Coordinator

Penske Vehicle Services

Auburn Hills, MI

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Penske Vehicle Services rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 329 rated vehicle maintenance

Job description

Position: Vehicle Test Coordinator

Location: Auburn Hills, MI

Reports To: Operations Manager

Description

The Vehicle Test Coordinator (VTC) is designed to perform entry level tasks and functions in support of the test and validation engineers. This position has a variety of duties that will be delegated by the engineer in which they work with. The VTC has a wide array of skills to assist the program in numerous ways.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Support test engineers with Camo management for VP/Proto vehicles.
  • Coordinate development part procurement, shipping and installation; Ensure work orders are completed; Coordinate with internal & external update facilities.
  • Conduct basic customer interfacing
  • Perform simple repetitive testing using provided test procedures.
  • Execute Vehicle Scan Report to identify DTCs.
  • Document validation conducted, through test reports.
  • Verify vehicle S/ware level prior to testing
  • Perform vehicle shakedown assistance and vehicle prep.
  • Set up test course and coordinate logistics for Drivability clinics
  • Ensure appropriate vehicle instrumentation is completed for relevant testing
  • Responsible for Hardware & Software updates.
  • Ensure all necessary equipment are shipped with test vehicles & removed posttest trip.
  • Manage maintenance logistics of the test fleet vehicles and tow trailers.
  • Responsible for ER&D roll up on all bulletins for all teams within EM&VP and updating the appropriate systems in Propulsion and Vehicle side.

Qualifications:

  • Preferred Education: Associates Degree
  • Must be a high energy individual with a strong work ethic and desire to succeed
  • Experience in the automotive industry is preferred but not required

Requires the Following Skills:

  • Excellent communication, both oral and written. Must be able to communicate effectively via telephone, email and written means
  • Must be able to multi-task while ensuring follow up and execution of required tasks
  • High degree of organization and ability to work effectively in a fast paced environment
  • Intermediate skills with computer applications (Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, etc.)

Lifting Requirements:

  • 10 75 lbs.

Physical Requirements:

  • Requires moderate to high level of physical activity

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