What container you do with an automotive technology degree – Automotive mechanical engineering is a branch of vehicle engineering that focuses on the design and manufacture of various types of automobiles. This field of mechanical engineering involves the direct application of mathematics in the design and production of cars.
Job Activities of Automotive Engineers
Automotive engineers, popularly known as “car engineers,” work with other male and female engineers to improve the technical performance, aesthetics, and software of vehicles.
Common responsibilities of an automotive engineer include designing and testing various vehicle components, including fuel technologies and safety systems.
They may also ideate and design new vehicle models or vehicle systems using engineering design software such as ThinkDesign Engineering.
How to become an engineer or automotive engineer
The following professional orientation steps may be useful for you to start a career in automotive mechanical engineering:
1. Get a bachelor’s degree
Automotive engineering jobs require applicants to have at least a four-year bachelor’s degree.
Many universities do not offer bachelor’s degrees specific to automotive engineering, so aspiring automotive engineers should consider majoring in mechanical engineering or a related field. Most mechanical engineering programs offer an option to focus on automotive engineering.
2. Get an internship
During your time at the University or after completing a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, it is common to require that people participate in an internship with an automotive supplier or other employers in the automotive industry.
Internships give you the hands-on experience that prospective employers typically demand. Many internships offer interns the opportunity to specialize in a specific focus area, such as robotics.
3. Apply for a job
Upon successful completion of a degree and gaining hands-on experience, you will likely be eligible for entry-level automotive engineering positions. Although you may be required to complete a training program upon hire.
4. Get a license
Many automotive engineers are licensed in their states to be eligible for more advanced positions, such as government jobs and consulting jobs.
The requirements for this license may vary in each state, but, in general, you will be required to pass one or more exams and have a certain amount of work experience; so you can get an automotive engineering license.
5. Consider a graduate degree
Although a master’s degree or higher is not required to work as an automotive engineer; however, the academic merit of earning a graduate degree can provide you with further training, advanced knowledge, and lead to further career advancement in this industry.
Types of Automotive Mechanical Engineering Jobs
Individuals who have earned a college degree in mechanical engineering or a related field are eligible to enter the workforce as automotive engineers. The following are common jobs that an aspiring automotive engineer or engineer may perform:
automotive engineering technician
These professionals help automotive engineers in a number of ways, including by conducting vehicle-related tests, inspecting cars, collecting data, and designing car prototypes.
They may also test auto parts and analyze them for efficiency and effectiveness.
This position is ideal for individuals who are just completing their degree and looking to gain hands-on experience in the automotive engineering industry.
automotive design engineer
This type of engineer is primarily concerned with improving or designing various aspects of a motor vehicle.
Understanding both the aesthetic qualities of automotive transport and mastering the materials and engineering necessary to design it is essential for these professionals.
car designer
An automobile designer is a professional who researches and designs new vehicles.
These individuals focus on creating new car designs that incorporate the latest safety and operating technologies, comply with necessary regulations, and offer consumers a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing product.
They can design any road vehicle including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and buses.
Skills You Need to Work in the Automotive Engineering Field
To be a successful automotive engineer or engineer, you will need a series of both hard and soft skills. These include:
Data analysis skills
Automotive engineers and engineers are responsible for conducting and analyzing various car tests. These professionals must be able to read and interpret data efficiently and effectively to improve vehicle performance and output.
Problem Solving Skills
Engineers in the automotive industry must be able to think outside the box to solve specific vehicle-related problems and create new solutions.
Technical skills
Automotive engineers must have a variety of technical skills related to this industry, including a strong working knowledge of automotive maintenance and function.
commercial conscience
These professionals must be aware of industry trends, as well as the latest in automotive technology and regulations.
Teamwork skills
Many automotive engineers and engineers work in teams to complete projects. This requires professionals to have strong teamwork skills and know how to work effectively with other people on a daily basis.
