Automotive engineering is one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding career fields. When a customer drives a new vehicle off a dealership lot, they are taking with them the technical expertise of many engineers, including the automotive engineer.
Automotive engineers research, design, and develop vehicles and their subsystems. They work with sophisticated technologies to create products that thrill the senses and bring the freedom of mobility to the world.
What Is an Automotive Engineer?
An automotive engineer specializes in the design, development, testing, and manufacturing of motor vehicles. They work to improve the performance of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles through innovative engineering solutions.
Automotive engineers focus on creating more efficient, safer, and more environmentally friendly vehicles. Their responsibilities can range from designing new vehicle systems and components to developing the next generation of electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies.
Automotive engineers employ a combination of mechanical, electrical, and software engineering principles to solve complex problems. They work closely with other engineers and technicians to apply new technologies in automotive design and production. The role often requires a deep understanding of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, materials science, and structural analysis.
Automotive engineers must also ensure that their designs comply with governmental safety and environmental regulations. Whether they are optimizing fuel efficiency, refining the ergonomic comfort of a vehicle, or integrating sophisticated technology for better navigation and safety features, automotive engineers play a critical role in the evolution of transportation.
What Do Automotive Engineers Do?
Automotive engineers are concerned with the development of passenger cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles or off-road vehicles. They do one or more of the following:
- Design new products or modify existing ones
- Troubleshoot and solve engineering problems
- Plan and design manufacturing processes
Automotive engineers must apply their engineering skills in a commercial way because their innovations and solutions must be effective and profitable. Their typical responsibilities include the following:
- Researching, designing, developing, and producing vehicles and components
- Preparing cost estimates and design specifications
- Preparing plans and drawings
- Analyzing energy, environmental, and safety aspects of the planned project
- Predicting vehicle or component behavior under different conditions using computerized models
- Developing testing procedures
- Investigating product failures
- Analyzing, interpreting, and condensing technical data into reports or presentations
- Supervise technical staff
- Working closely with other types of engineers, such as civil, electrical, aerospace, chemical, and industrial
- Working with professionals from other occupational fields, such as marketing and legal
What Skills Are Needed to Excel in Automotive Engineering?
Success in automotive engineering requires a blend of technical expertise, creativity, and analytical skills. Key skills that are essential include the following:
- Technical Proficiency: Profound knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering principles is crucial. Automotive engineers must be skilled in using advanced software for design and simulation such as computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software.
- Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to troubleshoot and solve complex problems is vital. Engineers often need to find innovative solutions to design challenges or manufacturing issues.
- Attention to Detail: Precision is key in automotive engineering, as small errors can lead to major issues in safety and functionality.
- Teamwork and Communication: Automotive engineers frequently work in teams, requiring effective communication and collaboration skills to work with colleagues from various technical backgrounds.
- Adaptability: The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with new technologies like autonomous driving and electric vehicles. Engineers must be adaptable and continually learning to stay current with industry trends.
What Is the Work Environment Like for Automotive Engineers?
The work environment for automotive engineers can vary significantly depending on their specific job role and employer:
- Office Settings: Many automotive engineers work in office environments where they engage in design and planning. This often involves working on computers to create designs and simulations, as well as attending meetings to discuss projects.
- Laboratories and Testing Facilities: Development and research engineers spend a lot of their time in labs testing various automotive parts and systems. This environment allows for hands-on work with prototypes and testing equipment.
- Manufacturing Plants: Production engineers work primarily in manufacturing settings, overseeing the production process of automotive components and vehicles. This can involve noisy, high-paced environments that require strict adherence to safety standards.
- Field Work: Some automotive engineers perform field tests on vehicles on test tracks or real roads to analyze performance under various conditions.
Automotive Engineer Qualifications
Any pre-engineering student should have a strong background in advanced calculus, physics, and chemistry to succeed at the collegiate level. Good grades and a high level of hands-on experience at the undergraduate level are important to landing a job after graduation. Because vehicles today are designed and developed in a virtual world and are basically “computers on wheels,” it is a real advantage to have a strong appreciation of computer science.
In addition to academic qualifications, the automotive engineer should have:
- An avid interest in motor vehicle engineering
- Solid analytical skills and and a creative approach to problem-solving
- A thorough understanding of technical concepts and federal safety standards and laws
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- The ability to prioritize and plan effectively
- The ability to stay within a budget and meet deadlines
- Soft skills, such as the ability to work in teams to solve problems
- The ability to work independently
How to Become an Automotive Engineer
Becoming an automotive engineer involves a structured educational path, practical experience, and a keen interest in automotive technology. Key steps to pursue a career in automotive engineering include the following.
Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma
- Focus on Relevant Courses: Excel in mathematics, physics, and computer science to build a solid foundation for advanced engineering coursework.
- Engage in Extracurricular Activities: Participate in science fairs, join robotics clubs, or get involved in automotive repair workshops to gain early exposure to engineering principles and problem-solving.
Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
- Select an Appropriate Major: Enroll in a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Automotive Engineering or a BS in Mechanical Engineering. Make sure the program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
- Coursework and Skills Development: Key courses include automotive design, vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, and thermodynamics. Develop software skills and understanding of computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Step 3: Participate in Internships
- Gain Practical Experience: Apply for internships with automotive manufacturers or suppliers. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing essential skills and can significantly enhance employment prospects.
- Networking Opportunities: Use internship opportunities to build connections with professionals in the industry, which can be invaluable in your future career.
Step 4: Consider Certification
- Professional Certification: Although not always required, obtaining certification, such as that offered by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
- Specialization: Consider certifications in specialized areas like electric vehicle technology or engine design to stand out in the job market.
Step 5: Pursue a Master’s Degree (Optional)
- Advanced Knowledge and Skills: A Master of Science (MS) in Automotive Engineering can provide deeper knowledge of advanced automotive systems and design techniques.
- Career Advancement: This degree can lead to higher positions in research and development, management, or specialized engineering areas.
Step 6: Participate in Continuous Learning and Professional Development
- Stay Updated: The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with advancements in technology. Regularly update your skills through workshops, seminars, and courses in emerging areas such as autonomous vehicles and alternative fuels.
- Professional Network: Stay active in professional organizations and attend industry conferences to keep abreast of new technologies and job opportunities.
By following these steps, individuals can effectively prepare for a rewarding career as an automotive engineer, equipped with the necessary education, skills, and professional qualifications.
Automotive Engineer Degrees and Specialties
Very few universities and colleges in the United States offer bachelor’s degrees in automotive engineering. Consequently, many students go into mechanical engineering because automotive engineering is a specialty of mechanical engineering and much of the coursework is the same.
However, there are some mechanical engineering schools that offer undergraduate courses that cover diesel engine theory, automotive electronics, and automotive power systems.
At the master’s and doctorate degree levels, students can concentrate on specific areas, such as:
- Automotive mechanical functions
- Automotive systems studies
- Hybrid electric cars
Students should choose a graduate engineering program that will not only enhance their education but will also help them to lead, innovate, and manage in a global economy. Automotive engineers with graduate degrees are in high demand by automotive manufacturers and suppliers.
Automotive Engineering vs. Mechanical Engineering
While automotive engineering and mechanical engineering share common fundamentals, they differ in focus and application:
- Scope of Work: Mechanical engineering is a broader field that covers the design, analysis, and manufacture of various mechanical systems. Automotive engineering, meanwhile, is a specialized branch of mechanical engineering focused specifically on vehicle design and production.
- Specialized Knowledge: Automotive engineers are experts in vehicle dynamics, engine components, and automotive electronics, which are areas typically not covered in general mechanical engineering.
- Career Paths: Mechanical engineers can work in a variety of industries including aerospace, manufacturing, HVAC, and robotics. Automotive engineers, however, are primarily employed in the automotive industry, though their skills are also applicable in related areas such as transportation and vehicle systems innovation.
- Project Focus: Projects in automotive engineering are often centered around improving vehicle efficiency, safety, and compliance with environmental regulations. Mechanical engineering projects can range from developing medical devices to building industrial machinery, offering a wider range of applications.
These distinctions highlight how each engineering discipline tailors its approach and expertise to meet specific industrial needs and challenges.
Types of Automotive Engineer Jobs
The field of automotive engineering offers a variety of specialized roles, each focusing on different aspects of vehicle design and functionality. The main types of automotive engineer jobs include the following.
Design Engineers
Design engineers are primarily responsible for the conceptualization and initial design phases of automotive development. They create blueprints and design schematics for new vehicle models, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and safety.
Development Engineers
Development engineers take designs from the concept stage to the production stage. They test and modify prototypes to ensure that the designs meet quality standards and functional requirements. This role often involves extensive collaboration with design engineers and manufacturing teams to address any issues that arise during the vehicle development phase.
Production Engineers
Production engineers focus on the manufacturing process of automotive components and vehicles. Their role is to optimize the production line for efficiency and cost-effectiveness while maintaining product quality. They also work to implement new technologies and systems in the manufacturing process.
Quality Assurance Engineers
Quality assurance (QA) engineers are crucial in ensuring that all automotive products meet required specifications and quality standards. They conduct tests and inspections throughout the production process to identify any defects or discrepancies and recommend corrective actions when necessary.
Research and Development Engineers
Research and development (R&D) engineers push the boundaries of automotive technology, developing new materials, technologies, and methodologies to be used in future automotive designs. They work on innovations such as autonomous driving systems, advanced propulsion technologies, and enhanced safety features.
These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available within the field of automotive engineering, each contributing uniquely to the creation and improvement of vehicle systems and technologies.
Compensation and Job Outlook for Automotive Engineers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for mechanical engineers, which includes research, design, and development-focused automotive engineers, was approximately $99,510 as of May 2023. Mechanical engineers in the transportation equipment manufacturing industry had a median salary of $99,930. The employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 10% between 2022 and 2032.
The median annual wage for industrial engineers, including those in production and QA engineering roles, is reported by the BLS to be about $95,300. The median annual salary for industrial engineers in the transportation equipment manufacturing industry was $99,630. The BLS projects employment of industrial engineers to grow 12% between 2022 and 2032.
Automotive Engineering Associations
The SAE and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers are wonderful sources of information about the latest industry news, events, conferences, and seminars. Additionally, these organizations offer great opportunities to meet with recruiters from leading automotive companies and network with other automotive engineers.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Over time, automotive engineers can enter senior-level management positions within their companies. Some gain the experience and expertise to open their own consulting engineering firms. Others take sales positions in automobile companies because they already possess the technical knowledge. Those with master’s degrees or PhDs teach and share their experiences with college engineering students.
Is Automotive Engineering Right For You?
Ask yourself the following questions in evaluating your potential to become an automotive engineer:
- Are you interested in motor vehicles and how they work?
- Are you a natural problem solver?
- Do you communicate well with others and work productively in a team environment?
- Are you comfortable leading and motivating others?
- Are you able to multitask and meet deadlines?
- Are you willing to constantly learn new things?
If you answered “yes” to these questions, and you do not struggle in math and science, then you should consider pursuing a career in automotive engineering.
Explore Your Education and Career Options in Automotive Engineering
Embarking on a career as an automotive engineer offers a unique opportunity to blend creative design with technical expertise, shaping the future of transportation. By understanding the essential skills required, the diverse work environments, and the distinct differences between automotive and mechanical engineering, prospective engineers can better prepare for a fulfilling career in this dynamic field.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve with advancements in technology and sustainability, the role of automotive engineers will be crucial in driving innovation and ensuring the safety and efficiency of vehicle systems. Whether you are drawn to designing the next generation of eco-friendly cars or improving autonomous driving technology, a career in automotive engineering is both challenging and rewarding.