On a daily basis, Automotive Engineers develop engineering specifications or cost estimates for automotive design concepts. Additionally, while it is not necessary, a master’s degree in a field such as automotives or automotive engineering gives prospective automobile engineers a distinct advantage. Applications and design engineering kick off the product development process by outlining the product specifications and requirements and then beginning the design of the product. Automotive engineers may oversee the building of cars at the factory. While these specialized automotive engineering degrees are still relatively rare, an increasing number of options are springing up around the world due to the popularity of this type of program. The minimum degree required for an entry-level position as an automotive engineer is a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related engineering field. Consequently, many students go into mechanical engineering because automotive engineering is a specialty of mechanical engineering and much of the coursework is the same. Automotive engineers employed in the motorsport industry usually work long hours over weekends during the racing season, whilst the rest of the year is spent engaging in constant development and testing activities. Each vehicle is the brainchild of an automotive engineer. When a design has been initiated engineers will begin by using computer assisted design programs or CAD to draw the specific product attribute on drawings and prints. Automotive Engineer Career. They may work on the vehicle's engine design, aerodynamics, performance and fuel efficiency, safety features, ergonomics, and more. Education Requirements for Automotive Engineer . An Automotive Engineer in your area makes on average $64,462 per year, or $3,540 (5%) less than the national average annual salary of $68,002. Entry requirements. Virginia ranks number 7 out of 50 states nationwide for Automotive Engineer salaries. Automotive engineers must communicate information to co-workers and management with presentations and written reports, so effective communication skills are also important. However, due to the complexity of the various electrical systems of cars, many employers prefer applicants with a master's degree. Before presenting a new concept to the public, the sales staff normally tries to anticipate what questions may arise. They provide technical direction to other engineers or engineering support personnel.. A typical day for an Automotive Engineer will also include: Coordinate production activities with other functional units, such as procurement, maintenance, or quality control. Automotive engineers are employed by car and truck manufacturers as well as parts suppliers to design and build entire vehicles or individual parts or systems. Entry. An automotive engineer is the person behind the conceptualization, design, planning and execution of the processes that ultimately result in yet another vehicle. Job Description: Develop new or improved designs for vehicle structural members, engines, transmissions, or other vehicle systems, using computer-assisted design technology. manufacturing engineering ; automotive engineering; A course with a work placement or an internship will be especially useful. To become an automotive engineer, you need to complete a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or, if available, automotive engineering. Direct … However, there are some mechanical engineering schools that offer undergraduate courses that cover diesel engine theory, automotive electronics and automotive power systems. You'll usually need: at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree; between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree; More Information. 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