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Partially updated 2009
Bright Outlook
Green Occupation

Summary Report for:
17-2141.02 - Automotive Engineers

Develop new or improved designs for vehicle structural members, engines, transmissions and other vehicle systems, using computer-assisted design technology. Direct building, modification, and testing of vehicle and components.

This title represents an occupation for which data collection is currently underway.

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Tasks  |  Wages & Employment  |  Additional Information

Tasks

  • Conduct or direct system-level automotive testing.
  • Design control systems or algorithms for purposes such as automotive energy management, emissions management, and increased operational safety or performance.
  • Design or analyze automobile systems in areas such as aerodynamics, alternate fuels, ergonomics, hybrid power, brakes, transmissions, steering, calibration, safety, and diagnostics.
  • Alter or modify designs to obtain specified functional and operational performance.
  • Build models for algorithm and control feature verification testing.
  • Calibrate vehicle systems, including control algorithms and other software systems.
  • Conduct automotive design reviews.
  • Develop calibration methodologies, test methodologies, or tools.
  • Develop engineering specifications and cost estimates for automotive design concepts.
  • Develop or integrate control feature requirements.

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Wages & Employment Trends

National

Median wages data collected from Mechanical Engineers.
Employment data collected from Mechanical Engineers.
Industry data collected from Mechanical Engineers.

Median wages (2008) $36.02 hourly, $74,920 annual
Employment (2008) 239,000 employees
Projected growth (2008-2018) Slower than average (3% to 6%) Slower than average (3% to 6%)
Projected job openings (2008-2018) 75,700
Top industries (2008)

State & National

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Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2008 wage data external site and 2008-2018 employment projections external site. "Projected growth" represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2008-2018). "Projected job openings" represent openings due to growth and replacement.

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Sources of Additional Information

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

  • Engineers external site. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition.

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