Automotive engineer
Eager to shape the future of transport? As an automotive engineer, you'll design and innovate the next generation of vehicles.
Also known as: vehicle engineer, car designer

About the job
Salary (before tax)
Entry
£26,000

Experienced
£48,000
In this job, new workers in Scotland start around £26,000 per year. Experienced workers can earn up to £48,000.
Source:
National Careers ServiceWhat it's like
Do you have a passion for all things on wheels and a knack for innovation? If so, a career as an automotive engineer could put you on the road to success!
As an automotive engineer, you'll be at the forefront of designing, testing and developing the next generation of vehicles. This role involves everything from sleek and efficient cars to powerful trucks and even high-performance racing machines.
You'll make the vehicle more cost-effective and reduce its impact on the environment. You'll make it safer for drivers and passengers and come up with exciting new designs for the way it looks.
Your tasks might include:
designing and refining vehicle body, chassis and engine systems
developing electrical and electronic instruments and control systems
utilising computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans
building and testing prototypes to evaluate performance and safety
analysing test data to assess the effectiveness of designs
writing reports on design decisions and test results
As a senior engineer, you'd manage projects, supervise technical teams, write reports and negotiate with clients.
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You could:
design more fuel-efficient engines
research and implement lightweight materials to help improve energy efficiency
develop technologies to reduce vehicle emissions and promote sustainability
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Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- analysing
- making decisions
- managing resources
- researching
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- resourceful
- designing
- working with technology
- cooperating

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