Automotive Engineers
Automotive engineers design and develop vehicle systems including engines, transmissions, and structural components using computer-assisted design technology. They work for automotive manufacturers, suppliers, and engineering firms, directing the building, modification, and testing of vehicles and parts to improve performance, safety, and efficiency.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against automotive engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Automotive engineers spend time using CAD software to create and refine designs, analyzing test data to identify problems, and collaborating with manufacturing and quality teams. They may attend meetings to review project progress, visit testing facilities to observe vehicle performance, conduct calculations to verify designs meet specifications, and document engineering changes.
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 likely enjoy solving technical problems and understanding how systems work—traits that fit the investigative interest. You tend to be detail-oriented and practical, preferring hands-on work with concrete results rather than abstract concepts, which aligns with realistic interests.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Senior System Software Engineer, Automotive Performance · NVIDIA · Canada, United States · Remote
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $128,080 | $157,710 | $162,880 | 2,710 |
| District of Columbia | $107,300 | $133,300 | $166,360 | 510 |
| California | $102,360 | $130,900 | $166,580 | 30,530 |
| Delaware | $97,920 | $125,130 | $128,140 | 610 |
| Colorado | $95,710 | $124,430 | $149,790 | 7,190 |
| Alaska | $92,280 | $124,340 | $157,610 | 380 |
| Maryland | $98,300 | $122,870 | $156,560 | 6,550 |
| Louisiana | $81,790 | $119,540 | $147,560 | 1,890 |
| Massachusetts | $96,440 | $119,300 | $140,590 | 7,680 |
| Wyoming | $100,060 | $117,750 | $140,600 | 230 |
| Rhode Island | $99,350 | $116,230 | $154,690 | 1,560 |
| Texas | $91,420 | $112,410 | $145,090 | 22,080 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Fluid Power Engineer (CFPE) — International Fluid Power Society
- STCW - Chief Engineer 3000 kW/4000 HP or More Management Level — United States Coast Guard National Maritime Center
- Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) — American Society for Quality
- Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) — Society of Manufacturing Engineers
- Test and Balance Engineer (TBE) — Associated Air Balance Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against automotive engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-2141.02 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.