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

Sep 16, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of an Automotive hardware Engineer is to design and develop automotive hardware. This includes everything from analyzing and improving existing designs to developing entirely new systems. The job requires a deep knowledge of engineering principles, automotive systems, and computer-aided design (CAD) software.

The engineer must also be able to interpret customer requirements and develop product specifications. As a result, automotive hardware engineers have a major impact on the safety, reliability, and performance of vehicles. By creating innovative, reliable hardware designs, they ensure safe and efficient operation for drivers and passengers alike.

these engineers often collaborate with other disciplines such as software and electrical engineers to create fully integrated systems.

Steps How to Become

Earn an Undergraduate Degree. The first step to becoming an Automotive Hardware Engineer is to earn a bachelors degree in a relevant field such as engineering, computer science, or physics.
Complete Professional Certification. Many employers prefer to hire Automotive Hardware Engineers who have professional certification. The Society of Automotive Engineers offer certification courses in Automotive Engineering, Automotive Electronics, and other relevant disciplines.
Gain On-the-Job Experience. Automotive Hardware Engineers are often required to have hands-on experience in the field, so gaining on-the-job experience is key to becoming a successful Automotive Hardware Engineer. Obtaining an internship or apprenticeship in the field can help you gain the necessary experience and knowledge.
Consider Advanced Education. To advance your career as an Automotive Hardware Engineer, you may want to consider pursuing an advanced degree such as a masters or doctorate in engineering or a related field.
Become a Certified Automotive Hardware Engineer. The Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers (IEEE) offers a certification program for Automotive Hardware Engineers. Passing the certification exam is the final step to becoming a certified Automotive Hardware Engineer.

To ensure automotive hardware is reliable and efficient, engineers must focus on several key elements. First, they must use high-quality materials to construct the hardware, as well as monitor the manufacturing process to ensure accuracy. Second, they must design the hardware to be as lightweight and compact as possible to maximize performance while minimizing energy consumption.

they must utilize robust testing protocols to validate performance and reliability. Finally, they must ensure their design can be easily maintained and updated if needed. By utilizing these strategies, automotive hardware engineers can create reliable and efficient systems that will provide a safe and reliable driving experience for years to come.

You may want to check Mechanical hardware Engineer, Industrial Hardware Engineer, and Aerospace hardware Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Design and develop automotive hardware systems, such as powertrain, chassis, electrical and electronic systems.
Develop and test automotive hardware components and systems according to customer specifications.
Monitor cost, performance, and reliability of automotive hardware components and systems.
Develop and implement strategies for improving automotive hardware system development process.
Analyze customer requirements and develop solutions to meet customer needs.
Create test plans, test cases and automated test scripts for testing automotive hardware systems.
Perform data analysis to identify trends and suggest improvements in automotive hardware system performance.
Develop and maintain technical documentation for automotive hardware systems.
Identify and evaluate new technologies that can improve automotive hardware system performance and reduce costs.
Collaborate with other departments to ensure alignment of product design.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of automotive industry standards and regulations
Experience in designing and developing automotive hardware components
Ability to develop and debug embedded systems
Proficiency in C/C++ programming
Expertise in using micro-controllers and embedded platforms
Knowledge of communication protocols such as CAN, LIN, Ethernet, etc.
Familiarity with software development tools such as compilers, debuggers, IDEs, etc.
Understanding of automotive system architecture
Ability to troubleshoot hardware issues
Good problem solving and analytical skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment

Automotive hardware engineering requires a wide range of skills, from technical proficiency to critical thinking. A major part of the job is understanding the complex interactions between the different parts of a vehicle, analyzing their performance and making sure that they are up to the required standards. As an automotive hardware engineer, one must have a good understanding of the principles of design, materials, and mechanics, as well as the ability to troubleshoot any problems that may arise.

They must also be able to communicate effectively with other engineers and technicians, ensuring that all components and systems work together as intended. Furthermore, they must be able to think critically and creatively to come up with innovative solutions to solve complex engineering problems. These skills are essential for designing and constructing safe, efficient, and reliable automotive hardware that meets customer needs and expectations.

Avionics Hardware Designer, Mechanical hardware Designer, and PCB (Printed Circuit Board) hardware Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in the automotive hardware engineering field?
What automotive hardware engineering challenges have you faced and how did you overcome them?
What techniques do you use to optimize the design of automotive hardware?
How do you ensure that the automotive hardware designs meet safety regulations?
What experience do you have working with 3D printing technology for automotive hardware design?
How do you stay up to date on the latest technologies and trends in automotive hardware engineering?
How do you communicate your designs and ideas to other members of the team?
How do you ensure that your automotive hardware designs are cost-effective?
What challenges have you faced in collaborating with other departments on automotive hardware design projects?
What is your process for testing and validating automotive hardware designs?

Common Tools in Industry

Oscilloscope. A device used to measure electrical signals over time. (Example: Tektronix Oscilloscope)
Torque Wrenches. Used to accurately tighten bolts and nuts to specified levels of torque. (Example: Craftsman Electronic Torque Wrench)
Multimeter. A device used to measure electrical current, voltage and resistance. (Example: Fluke Multimeter)
Automotive Diagnostic Scanner. A tool used to diagnose problems with a vehicles engine and other components. (Example: Autel MaxiCOM MK808 OBD2 Scanner)
Crimping Tool. Used to connect wires and cables to terminals in an electrical circuit. (Example: Klein Tools Ratcheting Crimper)
Soldering Iron. A tool used to create a permanent connection between two metal pieces by melting and joining them together. (Example: Weller Soldering Iron)
Wrench Sets. Used to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts of different sizes. (Example: Craftsman Metric Wrench Set)
Screwdrivers. Used to rotate screws, nuts and bolts. (Example: Stanley Screwdriver Set)
Automotive Lift. Used to raise a vehicle up off the ground for maintenance and repairs. (Example: BendPak 4-Post Lift)
Power Drill. A tool used to make holes in materials such as wood and metal. (Example: DeWalt Cordless Drill)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE International)
Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG)
Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA)
International Automotive Task Force (IATF)
Automotive Service Association (ASA)
Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA)
Association of Global Automakers (AGA)
American Automobile Association (AAA)
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (AMRA)

We also have Hardware Architect, Firmware Hardware Designer, and Senior Hardware Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

ECU (Engine Control Unit). An electronic control unit located within an automobile that manages the engine's performance.
OBD (On-Board Diagnostics). A system of computerized processes used to diagnose and monitor vehicle performance.
CAN Bus (Controller Area Network). An automotive bus standard used to connect various electronic components in a vehicles network.
Diagnostic Scanner. A device used to detect and diagnose problems in a vehicle's onboard computer systems.
ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System). A system designed to prevent wheel lockup during braking, allowing for improved vehicle control and safety.
ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). A suite of electronic systems designed to make driving safer by providing automated assistance to the driver in certain situations.
Vehicle Dynamics. The study of the motion of a vehicle, including its speed, acceleration, and handling.
Sensors. Devices used to detect and measure physical quantities such as temperature, pressure, or vibration.
Connected Car. A car equipped with internet-connected sensors and other advanced technologies.
Automotive Software. Program code designed to control or monitor the operation of a vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of an Automotive Hardware Engineer?

The primary responsibility of an Automotive Hardware Engineer is to design, develop, and test electronic hardware components, systems, and subsystems used in automotive and other vehicle applications.

What type of degree is required to become an Automotive Hardware Engineer?

Most Automotive Hardware Engineers have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.

What are the key skills necessary for success in the role of Automotive Hardware Engineer?

Automotive Hardware Engineers must have strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills as well as a good understanding of automotive systems and components. They should also have experience with CAD software, circuit design, and embedded systems.

What are some common duties of an Automotive Hardware Engineer?

Common duties of an Automotive Hardware Engineer include designing, developing, and testing electronic hardware such as circuit boards, wiring diagrams, sensors, and actuators; conducting tests and simulations to evaluate performance; and troubleshooting any issues that arise.

What is the expected salary range for an Automotive Hardware Engineer?

According to PayScale, the average salary for an Automotive Hardware Engineer is $76,000 per year. Salaries can range from $54,000 to $119,000, depending on experience and location.

Web Resources

Becoming an Automotive Engineer - University of Phoenix www.phoenix.edu
Example Career: Automotive Engineers - West Virginia University www.wvu.edu
Automotive Product Design Engineer | NC State Online and online-distance.ncsu.edu