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.
SOC: 17-2141.02
Common Job Titles
Engineer
Product Engineer
Project Engineer
Research Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign vehicle structural members, engines, transmissions, and integrated systems using computer-assisted design technology and applying principles of physics and mechanical engineering.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate solutions to complex automotive engineering problems involving multiple system interactions integrating mechanical, electrical, and software considerations under project constraints.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize mathematical models and engineering principles to predict vehicle behavior applying advanced mathematics, physics, and computational methods.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze vehicle system performance data and test results using simulation software and analytical tools to optimize design parameters.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate vehicle component designs for compliance with safety, environmental, and performance standards in collaborative engineering environments following regulatory requirements.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate computer-aided design software and engineering simulation tools to create detailed technical drawings and conduct virtual testing of vehicle components.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate technical requirements with stakeholder needs and project objectives when coordinating with interdisciplinary teams including manufacturing, quality, and product management.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess vehicle prototype performance and identify areas for design improvement through systematic testing, data collection, and comparative analysis.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate innovative engineering approaches and emerging automotive technologies when presenting technical recommendations to management and external stakeholders.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute vehicle component testing protocols using dynamometers, climate chambers, and diagnostic equipment in laboratory and proving ground settings following established procedures.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Automotive Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
286,760
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $68,740. 25th percentile: U.S. $81,800. 50th percentile: U.S. $102,320. 75th percentile: U.S. $130,290. 90th percentile: U.S. $161,240. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$68,740
10% of workers earn the following or more
$161,240
Workers on average earn
$110,080
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Engineering and Technology4.7/5
Physics4.3/5
Mathematics4.3/5
Mechanical4.1/5
Design3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
