Automotive Engineering Technicians
Automotive engineering technicians assist engineers by testing and evaluating proposed design changes for vehicles and vehicle components. They conduct performance, durability, and efficiency tests on experimental equipment, then document and report findings. Most work in automotive manufacturing plants, research facilities, or engineering firms.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against automotive engineering technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves planning test procedures, setting up experimental equipment, running diagnostic tests, and collecting performance data. Technicians monitor equipment during tests, troubleshoot problems when they arise, and record measurements. They may spend time in laboratories, test facilities, or on the shop floor. Documentation and analysis of results are regular tasks, often involving written reports or meetings with engineers to discuss findings.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're detail-oriented and enjoy solving practical problems through testing and observation. You're curious about how things work and why they fail, and you prefer hands-on work to theory. If you like investigating real-world challenges and seeing the direct results of your testing, this work suits you well.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold an associate degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $74,900 | $102,800 | $177,240 | 270 |
| New Mexico | $76,750 | $97,560 | $118,800 | 320 |
| Missouri | $75,290 | $92,150 | $102,380 | 800 |
| California | $69,490 | $87,390 | $104,220 | 3,660 |
| Connecticut | $63,150 | $82,660 | $100,450 | 350 |
| Rhode Island | $63,280 | $81,600 | $140,960 | 30 |
| Oregon | $64,920 | $80,840 | $88,830 | 260 |
| Nebraska | $60,290 | $80,050 | $99,640 | 250 |
| Washington | $62,240 | $79,410 | $105,020 | 890 |
| Maryland | $62,550 | $79,180 | $98,830 | 640 |
| Ohio | $63,610 | $78,500 | $84,390 | 1,800 |
| New York | $61,370 | $78,210 | $82,870 | 1,140 |
All 44 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Fundamentals of Engineering - Mechanical (FE-M) — National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying
- Certified Engineering Technologist — National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies
- Principles and Practice of Engineering - Mechanical: Thermal and Fluid Systems (PE-M:T&FS) — National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying
- Section 609 Technician Certification - Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning (MVAC) — Environmental Protection Agency
- Certified Quality Technician (CQT) — American Society for Quality
- Fluid Power Mobile Hydraulic Technician (CFPMHT) — International Fluid Power Society
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against automotive engineering technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-3027.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.