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Vehicle Validation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Horizontal Talent

Validation Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$41 - $78/hr

We're looking for a Validation Engineer to support the development and validation of advanced vehicle systems in a fast-moving, innovative environment. This role plays an important part in ensuring ...

Eldorado CA

Validation Engineer III

Riverside, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Each vehicle is produced in our purpose-built facility in Riverside, California supporting public ... Validation Engineer III Location: Riverside, CA Salary Range: $110,000 - $130,000 Position Summary ...

GILLIG

Product Validation Engineer

Livermore, CA · Hybrid

GILLIG is on the forefront in the transition to zero-emission vehicles and has an unmatched ... Validation Engineering is responsible for the testing, simulation, and evaluation of systems ...

GILLIG

Product Validation Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

GILLIG is on the forefront in the transition to zero-emission vehicles and has an unmatched ... Validation Engineering is responsible for the testing, simulation, and evaluation of systems ...

GILLIG

Product Validation Engineer

Livermore, CA · Hybrid

GILLIG is on the forefront in the transition to zero-emission vehicles and has an unmatched ... Validation Engineering is responsible for the testing, simulation, and evaluation of systems ...

Nuro

Test Validation Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$132K - $198K/yr

Who We Are Nuro believes self-driving vehicles are the most immediate and profound opportunity for ... engineering principles such as defining requirements and formal verification and validation

Nuro

Test Validation Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$132K - $198K/yr

Who We Are Nuro believes self-driving vehicles are the most immediate and profound opportunity for ... engineering principles such as defining requirements and formal verification and validation

Nuro

Test Validation Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$132K - $198K/yr

Who We Are Nuro believes self-driving vehicles are the most immediate and profound opportunity for ... engineering principles such as defining requirements and formal verification and validation

GlobalLogic Inc.

Firmware Validation Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$150K - $160K/yr

Reproduce defects, capture and analyze logs (Wireshark, DLT, ADB, HCI/Bluetooth traces, vehicle ... Required Qualifications: * 8+ years in a hands-on validation/QA engineering role on firmware or ...

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Vehicle Validation Engineer information

See California salary details

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$51

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How much do vehicle validation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle validation engineer in California is $51.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.89 and $62.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a vehicle validation engineer do?

A Vehicle Validation Engineer is responsible for testing and verifying that vehicles meet all required safety, performance, and regulatory standards before they go to market. They design and execute test plans, analyze data, and collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to identify and resolve any issues. Their work ensures that vehicles are reliable, safe, and function as intended under various conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by vehicle validation engineers during the testing phase?

Vehicle Validation Engineers often encounter challenges such as tight project timelines, rapidly evolving technology, and the need to coordinate tests across multiple departments. They must ensure that vehicles meet stringent safety, performance, and regulatory standards while adapting quickly to unexpected test results or component issues. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for addressing these challenges and collaborating with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to implement solutions efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vehicle validation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Validation Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with vehicle testing and validation processes. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data acquisition systems, and relevant industry standards or certifications, such as ISO or Six Sigma, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you collaborate effectively and deliver accurate results. These skills are crucial for ensuring vehicle safety, quality, and compliance with regulatory standards during the development process.

What is the difference between Vehicle Validation Engineer vs Vehicle Test Engineer?

AspectVehicle Validation EngineerVehicle Test Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like ISTQB or SAE are commonBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning validation plans, analyzing data, ensuring vehicle complianceConducting tests, operating testing equipment, recording test results
Industry UsageUsed in automotive manufacturing, OEMs, and suppliers for validation phasesUsed in testing labs, manufacturing plants, and R&D departments

Vehicle Validation Engineers focus on validating vehicle systems through analysis and testing to ensure compliance and performance, while Vehicle Test Engineers primarily conduct physical tests and operate testing equipment. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, often working closely within automotive development teams to ensure vehicle quality and safety.

Are vehicle validation engineers in demand?

Vehicle validation engineers are in demand due to the growing automotive industry and the increasing focus on safety, quality, and compliance standards. They typically require knowledge of testing procedures, validation tools, and industry regulations, making their skills valuable in automotive manufacturing and development environments.

Do vehicle validation engineers make good money?

Vehicle validation engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by industry, experience, and location. They often require knowledge of testing procedures, quality standards, and tools like MATLAB or CAN bus systems. Overall, the role offers solid compensation within the automotive and transportation sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Validation Engineer jobs in California?

For Vehicle Validation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vehicle Validation Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Vehicle Validation Engineer jobs in California are:

Vehicle Validation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Validation Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,736 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Validation Engineer

Foster City, CA • On-site

Horizontal Talent
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Horizontal Talentexternal

$41 - $78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

We’re looking for a Validation Engineer to support the development and validation of advanced vehicle systems in a fast-moving, innovative environment. This role plays an important part in ensuring product quality, reliability, and readiness through structured testing, issue identification, and close collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams.

Responsibilities
  • Plan, execute, and document validation activities for vehicle systems and components
  • Identify, reproduce, and help resolve issues found during testing
  • Work closely with engineering teams to support troubleshooting and root cause analysis
  • Review test results and provide clear feedback to help improve system performance and reliability
  • Maintain accurate records of validation progress, findings, and outcomes
  • Support the development and refinement of test procedures and validation coverage
Skills
  • Experience in validation, testing, quality assurance, or a related engineering field
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to read, understand, and follow technical procedures and specifications
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills
  • Detail-oriented approach with strong organizational habits
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with automotive, robotics, hardware, or complex system validation
  • Familiarity with test planning, test execution, and defect tracking
  • Comfort working in a dynamic environment where priorities may evolve
  • Exposure to data analysis tools or test reporting processes
  • Interest in helping build reliable, safe, and high-quality technology

Horizontal is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all people are valued and respected. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applicants who bring different perspectives, experiences, and strengths to apply.

By applying for this position, you acknowledge and agree that Horizontal Talent may contact you regarding your application using automated technology, including phone calls, SMS/text messages, or email, which may be delivered by our virtual AI recruiter, Alex.


Please apply through this online posting or by visiting our Job Board at www.horizontaltalent.com/job-board. Applications will be accepted for 4 weeks. For those that join the team, we offer competitive compensation and benefits including medical, dental, vision, and retirement. Check out all we have to offer and how you can become part of the Horizontal Talent Team. The pay range for this role is $41 - $78 per hour based on qualifications and experience.

Apply