Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Automotive Engineer- from: Youtube Search
- Engineer- from: iCould [UK] Video
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Organising, Planning, and Prioritising Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritise, organise, and accomplish your work.
- Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Working Life
Designing and developing a vehicle involves a very wide range of engineering knowledge. For example, automobile engineers use their knowledge of mechanical engineering, combustion, vehicle structures and aerodynamics. They also need knowledge of computers and electronic and electrical systems, which are all becoming increasingly sophisticated in modern vehicles. For example, some cars now have computer-controlled engine systems and digital display dashboards.
Some automobile engineers specialise in design (they may be known as design engineers). The average motor vehicle has around 10,000 individual parts and each must be designed, developed and manufactured. Design engineers need to take into account factors such as the strength, safety, efficiency, appearance and cost of parts. Many design engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) technology in their work, allowing them to create and change designs much more quickly than in the days of drawing boards.
After design, they need to turn plans into prototypes. At this stage computer simulation and physical testing are carried out. Once the design has been approved the engineer plans and monitors the product process. If the design is not approved the engineer must go back to the 'drawing board' to alter the design.
Other automobile engineers specialise in research and development, (they may be known as research engineers). They must take into account factors such as cost, the safety and comfort of the driver including crash and safety testing (this is an aspect of ergonomics), fuel efficiency and environmental issues.
Research engineers work on both new and existing products. For example, they create new technologies such as electric batteries and bio-diesel engines. A lot of their work takes place in laboratories and workshops, although they may also work out in the open.
Automobile engineers also need to be commercially aware. They may work with manufacturers to plan full-scale production once all the testing has been completed. They are also involved in overseeing quality control.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Conduct or direct system-level automotive testing.
- Conduct automotive design reviews.
- Develop engineering specifications or cost estimates for automotive design concepts.
- Provide technical direction to other engineers or engineering support personnel.
- Perform failure, variation, or root cause analyses.
- Establish production or quality control standards.
- Write, review, or maintain engineering documentation.
- Prepare or present technical or project status reports.
- Design vehicles that use lighter materials, such as aluminum, magnesium alloy, or plastic, to improve fuel efficiency.
- Alter or modify designs to obtain specified functional or operational performance.
Further Information
- Motorsport Engineer- from: N.C.S. [UK]
Qualities - Automotive Engineer
Automobile engineers need knowledge of many different aspects of engineering, including mechanical engineering, combustion, aerodynamics, electrical and electronic systems and fuel technology.
You will need the ability to think in an orderly and logical way, as well as having imagination and a curious mind. Automobile engineers often work to deadlines, so you must be able to work under pressure.
Excellent communication skills are needed to work in a team with, for example, design engineers, research engineers, engineering technicians and manufacturers. Advanced computer skills are needed in this career, for example, to use computer-aided design technology or to work on sophisticated computer equipment in modern vehicles.
You need to have good analytical and problem solving skills. You must be able to prioritise and plan effectively. You also need to keep up to date with new development and regulations.
Interests - Automotive Engineer
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Entry / Progression - Automotive Engineer
Automotive Engineers normally complete an appropriate engineering degree or diploma. In Ireland automobile engineering is a mechanical or increasingly electrical specialisation. Mechanical engineering degrees, diplomas and certificates are offered at most Institutes of Technology and Universities throughout Ireland. Entrants may come from other engineering backgrounds, including Electronic Engineering.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: engineering, motor technology, engineering operations, technology, management.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: engineering, civil, mechanical, electronics, automotive technology, motor technology, motor vehicle maintenance, light engineering, OEM, combilift.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Motor Mechanic, Heavy Vehicle Mechanic, Agricultural Mechanic, OEM, Engineering Technician.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: automotive and automation systems, applied computing, automotive business management and technology, automotive engineering, transport management, automotive.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: automotive artificial intelligence, engineering, electrical, electronic engineering.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Engineers Ireland - becoming a chartered engineer
SIMI Society of the Irish Motor Industry
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Automotive Engineer
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €38k - €70k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
Morgan McKinley/ Payscale/ EIRERI/ Indeed/ Talent
Last Updated: July, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Automotive Engineer
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Assemblers (electrical and electronic products); Assemblers (vehicles and metal goods); Routine inspectors and testers; Weighers, graders and sorters; Tyre, exhaust and windscreen fitters; Sewing machinists; Assemblers and routine operatives n.e.c
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
Employment has been growing in this occupation since 2020, with employment exceeding preCOVID-19 levels, by almost 4,000 persons. However, the high volume of recent job hires far exceeded any employment growth suggesting that job churn is a factor for these roles.
In addition, there is a large number of jobseekers registered with DSP who were previously employed in roles classified as assemblers/lineworkers and other routine process workers. With 37% holding thirdlevel qualifications, over-qualification may be occurring.
Useful Contacts - Automotive Engineer
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Society of the Irish Motor Industry
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Insurance Ireland
- Insurance Centre, 5 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 1, D01 E7E8
- (01) 676 1820
- [email protected]
- Click Here
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LIA
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Insurance Institute of Ireland
- Insurance Centre, 5 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 1, D01 E7E8
- (01) 645 6600
- [email protected]
- Click Here
