How to Be Automotive Engineer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 6, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The automotive industry has seen tremendous growth over the past several decades due to advances in engineering. Automotive engineers have played a key role in this success, developing technologies and designs that have made cars more efficient, reliable, and safe. In turn, this has led to increased demand for vehicles, which has driven the automotive industry's growth.

Automotive engineers have put their expertise to use in the areas of powertrain design and optimization, chassis design, braking systems, safety systems, and emissions control. By creating improved designs and utilizing cutting-edge technologies, automotive engineers have been able to develop vehicles that are not only more efficient and reliable, but also safer for drivers and passengers. This is evidenced by the increasing number of vehicles on the road, as well as the decreasing number of vehicle-related fatalities.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. Automotive engineering is a field that requires a strong educational foundation in mathematics and physical sciences. A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field is necessary to become an automotive engineer.
Gain Experience Through an Internship. An internship will allow you to gain experience in the field and make valuable contacts and connections that may help you land a job after graduation.
Obtain Professional Certification. Professional certification is not required to become an automotive engineer, but it can help demonstrate your expertise in the field.
Consider Advanced Education. An advanced degree, such as a master's or doctorate, may be necessary to pursue certain positions or research topics.
Find a Job. Automotive engineering jobs are available in a variety of industries, including automotive manufacturers, research and development centers, and government agencies.

To become a skilled and competent automotive engineer, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of the science and technology behind automobiles. This includes knowledge of electronics, mechanics, and materials science. automotive engineers must understand the regulations and safety requirements for vehicles.

In order to gain this knowledge, it is necessary to pursue an education in engineering, preferably with a focus on automotive engineering. Once qualified, it is important to keep up to date with advancements in automotive technology, as well as to maintain an active professional development program to stay ahead of the competition. Finally, the ability to think critically, analyse data accurately and solve problems effectively are essential skills for any automotive engineer.

These skills, combined with the right educational background and experience, will give any aspiring automotive engineer the best chance of becoming a skilled and competent professional.

You may want to check Industrial Engineer, Firmware/Software Design Engineers, and Manufacturing Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Design and develop automotive systems and components for performance, durability, and safety.
Analyze and test vehicle components, such as engines, transmissions, brake systems, and steering systems.
Research and develop solutions to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) issues.
Create design and performance specifications for new automotive technologies.
Develop and implement prototypes to test designs and ensure functionality.
Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to evaluate their potential application in the automotive industry.
Use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed designs and schematics.
Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure designs meet customer expectations, industry standards, and government regulations.
Analyze test data to determine the best design solutions and optimize performance.
Create reports, presentations, and other materials to explain designs to customers and stakeholders.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of engineering principles, theories and concepts.
Knowledge of automotive design and systems.
Knowledge of computer aided design (CAD) systems.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical problems.
Ability to use a variety of tools and equipment for automotive repairs.
Ability to perform complex mathematical calculations.
Knowledge of safety regulations and industry standards.
Knowledge of materials used in automotive construction and products.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent problem solving skills.

Automotive engineering is a complex and highly specialized field which requires a variety of skills. The most important skill for an automotive engineer to possess is problem-solving. Automotive engineers need to be able to identify and address any issues that arise in the design, development, and manufacturing of vehicles.

they must have a strong understanding of mathematics and physics, as these are fundamental to automotive engineering. Automotive engineers must also have strong communication skills in order to collaborate effectively with other professionals, such as designers, suppliers, and manufacturers. Finally, automotive engineers must stay up to date with the latest technologies and advancements in the industry in order to develop more efficient and reliable vehicles.

By combining their problem-solving, mathematical, and communication skills with a deep knowledge of the automotive industry, automotive engineers are able to create innovative and reliable vehicles.

Petroleum Engineer, Bioengineering/Biomedical Engineering Technicians, and Acoustical Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in automotive engineering?
What challenges have you faced while working on automotive engineering projects?
Describe a successful automotive engineering project that you were a part of.
How do you stay up to date with the latest trends and developments in the automotive engineering industry?
What steps do you take to ensure accuracy and quality in your work?
How do you handle difficult design challenges?
What is your approach to problem-solving when it comes to automotive engineering projects?
What safety protocols do you follow when dealing with automotive engineering projects?
How do you handle high-pressure situations on the job?
What do you find most rewarding about working as an automotive engineer?

Common Tools in Industry

Computer Aided Design (CAD). A software program used to create 3D models of automotive components and systems. (Eg: Solidworks, Autodesk Fusion 360).
Automotive Diagnostic Software. A software program used to diagnose and troubleshoot issues with a car's engine, transmission, and other systems. (Eg: OBDLink LX, Autel MaxiCOM MK808)
Powertrain Simulation Software. A software program used to simulate powertrain performance, durability, and emissions. (Eg: AVL Cruise, GT-Power)
Vehicle Dynamics Simulation Software. A software program used to simulate vehicle dynamics such as handling, stability, and ride. (Eg: CarSim, Adams Car)
Finite Element Analysis (FEA). A software program used to analyze the stress and strain on automotive components. (Eg: NASTRAN, Abaqus)
Rapid Prototyping Software. A software program used to quickly fabricate physical prototypes of automotive components. (Eg: 3D Systems Geomagic Control X, Stratasys Insight)
Robotics Simulation Software. A software program used to simulate robotic systems for automating manufacturing processes. (Eg: RoboDK, RoboAnalyzer)
Data Acquisition Systems. A hardware and software system used to collect data from a vehicle for testing and analysis. (Eg: NI DAQmx, Measurement Computing USB-5133)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
Automotive Engineers International (AEI)
Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG)
Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (AMRA)
International Council for Automotive Research (ICAR)
Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI)
Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association (APMA)
International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA)
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

We also have Test/QA Engineer, Data Engineer, and Electrical and Electronics Engineers jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Automotive Design. The process of creating and refining the look, feel, and function of a vehicle, including its exterior, interior, and powertrain.
Powertrain. The components of a vehicle that generate and transfer power to the wheels, including the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
Vehicle Dynamics. The study of the behavior of a vehicle in terms of its response to various forces, including acceleration, deceleration, cornering, and braking.
Engine Control Unit (ECU). A computerized system within the engine that monitors and controls various engine parameters, such as fuel delivery, ignition timing, and exhaust emission levels.
Automotive Electronics. The use of electronic components, such as sensors and microcontrollers, to monitor and control a vehicle's systems.
Chassis Design. The design of the frame and suspension system of a vehicle, as well as the arrangement of its components.
Vehicle Emissions. The gases and particles released into the atmosphere by a vehicle's exhaust.
Manufacturing Processes. The processes used to assemble a vehicle from its individual components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of degree is needed to become an Automotive Engineer?

Automotive Engineers typically need a Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or automotive engineering.

What skills are required for an Automotive Engineer?

Automotive Engineers must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as experience with software tools used in automotive engineering such as computer-aided design (CAD) programs. They must also have knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes.

What is the average salary for an Automotive Engineer?

The median annual salary for Automotive Engineers is $87,820 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What does an Automotive Engineer do?

Automotive Engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture vehicles and their components, such as engines, transmissions, suspension systems, and electrical systems. They must also keep up with changing technologies and regulations.

What is the job outlook for Automotive Engineers?

The job outlook for Automotive Engineers is expected to grow 6% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing demand for fuel-efficient and autonomous vehicles.

Web Resources

Automotive Engineer | NC State Online and Distance Education online-distance.ncsu.edu
Becoming an Automotive Engineer - University of Phoenix www.phoenix.edu
Automotive Engineering B.S. | College of Engineering, Computing www.clemson.edu