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Salary

How much does a Automotive Engineer make?

The average salary for a Automotive Engineer is $92,658 per year in the US.

Automotive engineers design and develop vehicles and their components. They work on everything from engines to safety systems. The average yearly salary for an automotive engineer is around $92,658. This means that many people in this field earn a good living.

The salary for an automotive engineer can vary based on experience and location. Engineers with more experience often earn more. Those in areas with a higher cost of living may also see higher salaries. Here are some average salaries at different experience levels:

  • Entry-level: $44,000
  • Mid-level: $73,273
  • Senior-level: $131,818
  • Top-level: $190,364

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What are the highest paying cities for a Automotive Engineer?

Automotive engineers in San Diego, CA, enjoy some of the highest salaries in the industry. With an average salary of $98,054, this city offers competitive pay. Detroit, MI, follows closely with an average salary of $95,558, making it another top choice for automotive engineers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Automotive Engineer jobs, highlighting San Diego, CA with the highest at $98,054 and Toledo, OH with the lowest at $77,383.
  1. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $98,054
    In San Diego, automotive professionals thrive in a vibrant tech hub. Companies like Tesla and General Motors offer exciting opportunities. The city's climate and lifestyle make it a great place to work and live.
    Find Automotive Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA


  2. Detroit, MI
    Average Salary: $95,558
    Detroit is the heart of the automotive industry. Working here means being close to major companies like Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis. The city offers a rich history and a strong sense of community for those in the field.
    Find Automotive Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI


  3. Greensboro, NC
    Average Salary: $91,212
    Greensboro is a growing center for automotive innovation. Companies such as Honda and Volvo have a strong presence. The city provides a balanced lifestyle with a mix of urban and suburban living.
    Find Automotive Engineer jobs in Greensboro, NC


  4. Toledo, OH
    Average Salary: $77,383
    Toledo is known for its automotive manufacturing. Working here means being part of a strong industry with companies like Jeep and Dana. The city offers a lower cost of living and a welcoming community.
    Find Automotive Engineer jobs in Toledo, OH

What are the best companies a Automotive Engineer can work for?

Tesla offers the highest average salary for Automotive Engineers, making it a top choice for those in the field. Ford Motor Company also provides a competitive salary, along with a strong reputation in the industry. Adapt Technology, Advantage Technical, Techskills, and Kyyba offer solid salaries that attract many skilled professionals.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Automotive Engineer jobs, highlighting Tesla with the highest at $144,510 and Trigo Group with the lowest at $49,090.
  1. Tesla
    Average Salary: $144,510
    Tesla offers exciting opportunities for Automotive Engineers. They work on cutting-edge electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions. Tesla operates in many locations, including Palo Alto, California, and Fremont, Nevada.


  2. Ford Motor Company
    Average Salary: $98,265
    Ford Motor Company provides a range of opportunities for Automotive Engineers. They focus on designing and improving vehicles. Ford has facilities in various locations, such as Detroit, Michigan, and Chennai, India.


  3. Adapt Technology
    Average Salary: $92,545
    Adapt Technology offers Automotive Engineers the chance to work on innovative projects. They focus on vehicle development and technology. The company operates in locations like Novi, Michigan, and other key areas.


  4. Advantage Technical
    Average Salary: $92,037
    Advantage Technical provides Automotive Engineers with opportunities to work on advanced vehicle systems. They focus on research and development. The company operates in locations like Novi, Michigan, and other key areas.


  5. Techskills
    Average Salary: $86,808
    Techskills offers Automotive Engineers the chance to work on vehicle design and technology. They focus on innovation and efficiency. The company operates in locations like Novi, Michigan, and other key areas.


  6. Kyyba
    Average Salary: $84,651
    Kyyba provides Automotive Engineers with opportunities to work on vehicle development and technology. They focus on creating sustainable solutions. The company operates in locations like Novi, Michigan, and other key areas.


  7. Trigo Group
    Average Salary: $49,090
    Trigo Group offers Automotive Engineers the chance to work on vehicle systems and technology. They focus on innovation and efficiency. The company operates in locations like Novi, Michigan, and other key areas.

How to earn more as a Automotive Engineer?

Automotive engineers have the opportunity to earn more by focusing on specific areas of expertise. Specialization can lead to higher-paying positions. For example, engineers who specialize in electric vehicles or autonomous driving technologies often command higher salaries. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest industry trends can also increase earning potential. Networking with industry professionals and joining relevant organizations can open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs.

Gaining certifications and advanced degrees can significantly boost an automotive engineer's salary. Certifications in areas like project management or specific engineering tools can make an engineer more valuable to employers. Advanced degrees, such as a Master's or Ph.D., can lead to higher-paying roles in research and development or academia. Experience also plays a crucial role in earning more. Engineers with several years of experience in the field often earn higher salaries than those just starting out. Taking on leadership roles or managing projects can also lead to higher compensation.

Location and industry sector can also impact an automotive engineer's salary. Engineers working in areas with a high demand for automotive expertise, such as Silicon Valley or Detroit, often earn more. Working for companies in the luxury car market or high-tech sectors can also lead to higher pay. Seeking out these opportunities can help maximize earning potential.

  1. Specialization: Focus on areas like electric vehicles or autonomous driving.
  2. Certifications and Advanced Degrees: Gain certifications and higher education to increase value.
  3. Experience: More years of experience lead to higher salaries.
  4. Leadership Roles: Taking on management roles can increase pay.
  5. Location and Industry Sector: Work in high-demand areas or sectors for higher pay.

Currently 145 Automotive Engineer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Automotive Engineer in the US?

Learn what a Automotive Engineer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Automotive Engineer today.
Position
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Automotive Engineer
145 Job Openings