Automotive engineers design, develop, install, operate and maintain vehicles and engines.

Those wishing to work in automotive engineering jobs can choose to go down one of two routes. They can study for A levels in maths and science subjects and gain a place on a mechanical engineering degree at a university or college or they can enter into technician-level positions straight from school following gaining GCSE passes in English, maths and science. In addition for formal qualifications and training, automotive engineers require good computer-aided design skills, logical thinking, excellent communication skills and an ability to work well under pressure.

Automotive engineers may wish to find employment in the UK automotive industry or overseas. Working hours for engineers vary between jobs. However, most work around 37.5 hours per week. Shift work and overtime may be available. Some engineers choose to set themselves up as independent consultants. Jobs for automotive engineers are typically advertised in the national press and through specialist engineering recruitment agencies.

Starting salaries for newly-qualified automotive engineering staff are around £20,000 a year and increase with experience and further qualifications. Automotive engineers have excellent prospects for promotion, particularly if they are able to combine their engineering skills with a managerial aptitude.