Automotive engineers design vehicle systems and automobiles. Automotive engineering is one of the most exciting professions you can choose. Automotive engineers work in every area of the industry, from the look and feel of current cars, to the safety and security of new forms of transport.

Career Requirements-

Degree Level Bachelor's degree
Degree Name Mechanical engineering, automotive engineering concentration if available
Experience Some employers will want automotive engineers who specialize in a specific area
Salary $87,140 (median for mechanical engineers in 2014)

Step 1: Enroll in a Bachelor's Degree Program

Do Bachelor's degree program in automotive engineering.

Within a mechanical engineering program, students may have the opportunity to specialize or concentrate in automotive engineering.

Step 2: Participate in an Internship

An automotive engineering internship will provide students with experience in the field

These internships are offered through automotive suppliers or manufacturers and opportunities may be available to specialize in a specific area.

Step 3: Look for Employment Opportunities

Automotive engineers work in all aspects of a vehicle's design and performance.

Automotive engineers may be responsible for designing prototype cars, improving fuel system performance or finding more cost-effective materials to use.

Step 4 Participate in Continuing Education Opportunities

The Society of Automotive Engineers offers continuing education opportunities for professionals in the field.

Continuing education opportunities are available in many areas, including bodies and structures, fuels and energy sources, vehicles and performance and safety.

Step 5: Become Licensed

The path to licensure typically involves graduating from an ABET-accredited program, passing two exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying and gaining the appropriate amount of work experience.

Becoming professionally licensed can set an individual apart from unlicensed engineers by allowing them to bid for government contracts, perform consulting services and offer their services to the public.