Job profile: Automotive engineer
Automotive engineers are responsible for designing, developing and testing vehicle and vehicle components
This can stretch all the way through from early concept stage to finished vehicle, or even later on in responding to customer feedback. An incredibly varied role, automotive engineers can specialise in a number of fields, including: motorsport, rapid prototyping, supply chain management, ergonomics, electronics, alternative fuels, aerodynamics, safety and more.
Due to the variety of specialisms, the job can vary between traditional engineering right through to using cutting-edge new technologies. Although automotive engineers aren’t directly responsible for production, they may work closely with production managers.
During the everyday course of the job, an automotive engineer will be heavily involved with testing. This will cut across computer-modelling the behaviour of vehicles under varying conditions, as well as ‘real-life’ track testing. As the work needs specialist machinery, it is generally based around one site. Some areas however, motorsport for example, require considerable travel.
Automotive engineers will typically have technical qualifications, usually degrees in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, materials engineering, engineering design or electrical engineering. It’s important that the degree is recognised by a professional institute as it is an important element for assessment as a chartered engineer.
Some automotive engineers begin with HNDs in technical engineering subjects and then rely on employers to support further study.
New starters will begin with a formal period of training (usually lasting 1 to 2 years) which will familiarise them with most parts of the company. This time and training can count towards Initial Professional Development (IPD) which will ultimately count towards registration as an incorporated or Chartered Engineer.
As automotive engineers are frequently at the cutting edge of new production technologies, including robotics and IT, they will be engaged with on-going training and will keep abreast of new research.
For more information on careers in the automotive industry, please visit Automotive Skills.
