Career Profile

Automotive Engineers

What they do:

Develop 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.

Also Called:

Dimensional Integration Engineer, Engineer, Product Engineer, Project Engineer, Research Engineer, Dimensional Integration Engineer, Engineer, Product Engineer, Project Engineer, Research Engineer
$74,990
Starting Salary (2025)
$102,440
Median Salary (2025)
9.1%
Projected Job Growth
8,590
NY Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Conduct or direct system-level automotive testing.
Perform failure, variation, or root cause analyses.
Provide technical direction to other engineers or engineering support personnel.
Read current literature, attend meetings or conferences, or talk with colleagues to stay abreast of new automotive technology or competitive products.
Write, review, or maintain engineering documentation.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Dependability
Analytical Thinking
Attention to Detail
Initiative
Persistence

What key skills are needed for this job?

Complex Problem Solving
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Mathematics
Speaking
Writing

Expected Knowledge

Engineering and Technology

Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Physics

Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Common Activities

Working with Computers

Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems

Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Analyzing Data or Information

Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 4

Considerable Preparation Needed

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Bachelor's degree 71%
  • Master's degree 14%
  • Post-master's certificate 5%
  • Doctoral degree 5%
  • Post-secondary certificate 5%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

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