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Salary

How much does a Automotive Engineer make?

The average salary for a Automotive Engineer is $97,406 per year in the US.

Automotive engineers work on designing and creating new vehicle technology. This career offers a wide range of salaries depending on experience and specialization. An entry-level automotive engineer can expect to make around $40,000 per year.

As they gain more experience, they can see their earnings increase. The average yearly salary for automotive engineers stands at $97,406. Here are some of the possible salaries an automotive engineer can earn:

  • $40,000 for the bottom 10%
  • $56,364 for the 25th percentile
  • $72,727 for the median
  • $89,091 for the 75th percentile
  • $105,455 for the top 10%
View Automotive Engineer jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Automotive Engineer?

San Diego, California, stands out as a prime location for automotive engineers seeking top compensation. With an average salary of $101,608, job seekers can expect competitive pay in this vibrant city. Nearby, Toledo, Ohio, offers a solid average salary of $80,508 for automotive engineers, making it another attractive option for those in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Automotive Engineer jobs, highlighting San Diego, CA with the highest at $101,608 and Toledo, OH with the lowest at $80,508.
  1. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $101,608
    In San Diego, professionals in automotive roles often find opportunities with major companies such as General Motors and Tesla. The city's focus on innovation and sustainability offers a dynamic environment for those interested in electric vehicle technology. Being close to the coast also means access to beautiful outdoor settings during downtime.
    Find Automotive Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA


  2. Toledo, OH
    Average Salary: $80,508
    Toledo is home to several automotive giants, including Chrysler and Ford, making it an attractive location for engineers. The city's strong manufacturing background ensures a steady flow of opportunities in the sector. Toledo provides a balanced lifestyle with a reasonable cost of living and a tight-knit community.
    Find Automotive Engineer jobs in Toledo, OH

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

Tesla and Ford Motor Company lead the pack for the highest-paying jobs in automotive engineering. Tesla offers an average salary of $149,651, attracting talent with its innovative approach to electric vehicles. Ford Motor Company provides a competitive average salary of $140,342, reflecting its solid reputation in the industry. Both companies provide excellent opportunities for automotive engineers seeking rewarding careers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Automotive Engineer jobs, highlighting Tesla with the highest at $149,651 and Ford Motor Company with the lowest at $140,342.
  1. Tesla
    Average Salary: $149,651
    Tesla offers exciting opportunities for Automotive Engineers to work on cutting-edge electric vehicles. Engineers play a key role in designing and testing innovative automotive technologies. Tesla operates globally with major facilities in the USA, including California and Nevada, as well as internationally in countries like Germany, the UK, and China.


  2. Ford Motor Company
    Average Salary: $140,342
    At Ford Motor Company, Automotive Engineers develop and improve vehicle systems. Engineers focus on fuel efficiency, safety, and performance. Ford has a strong presence in North America, with significant operations in the USA and Canada, and also has facilities in South America, Europe, and Asia. This global reach provides diverse career opportunities.

How to earn more as a Automotive Engineer?

Automotive engineers design and develop vehicles and their systems. These professionals can earn a good living by improving their skills and finding opportunities for advancement. Here are some ways to increase earnings in this field.

First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Companies often offer higher salaries to engineers with more years in the industry. Second, specialization can also boost earnings. Focusing on areas like electric vehicles or autonomous driving can make an engineer more valuable. Third, obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can lead to better job opportunities. These credentials often come with higher pay. Fourth, seeking promotions or roles with more responsibility can increase salary. Lastly, moving to regions with higher living costs and demand for automotive engineers can result in higher pay.

Consider these factors when planning a career in automotive engineering. With the right steps, it is possible to earn more and advance in the field.

  1. Gain more experience
  2. Specialize in a high-demand area
  3. Obtain advanced degrees or certifications
  4. Seek promotions or higher-responsibility roles
  5. Move to regions with higher demand and pay

Currently 34 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.
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Automotive Engineer
34 Job Openings