What Automotive Engineers DoDevelop new or improved designs for vehicle structural members, engines, transmissions, or other vehicle systems, using computer-assisted design technology. Direct building, modification, or testing of vehicle or components.
- Conduct or direct system-level automotive testing.
- Provide technical direction to other engineers or engineering support personnel.
- Perform failure, variation, or root cause analyses.
- Calibrate vehicle systems, including control algorithms or other software systems.
- Design or analyze automobile systems in areas such as aerodynamics, alternate fuels, ergonomics, hybrid power, brakes, transmissions, steering, calibration, safety, or diagnostics.
Automotive Engineers Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationBachelor Degree
Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)
Training Time2 to 4 years
Job Openings18,100 Annually
Median Earnings
$126,370 in California
$102,320 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Thinking and problem solving
- Working with my hands
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Job security
- Receiving recognition
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Monitoring
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Automotive Engineers Explained
Automotive EngineerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Hybrid CollegeA hybrid college combines online learning with the student support typically offered on college campuses, giving students flexibility and accessibility while still providing a comprehensive educational experience.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years
find training near you
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What Is the Architecture & Engineering Industry?
Architecture & EngineeringThe primary activities of this group involve designing and developing plans, blueprints, and technical specifications for buildings, machines, and other products, as well as testing and evaluating prototypes to ensure they meet required standards and regulations.