Automotive Engineering Technicians
O*NET 17-3027.01 · SOC 17-3027
Automotive Engineering Technician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $75k a year with +1.3% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 3,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Diagnose vehicle system faults using automotive diagnostic scan tools.
- →Perform dynamometer tests to measure engine power output.
- →Disassemble and inspect automotive components for wear or failure.
- →Collect and log vehicle performance data during road testing.
- →Modify vehicle calibration settings to meet emissions test requirements.
Education & How to Get In
Most Automotive Engineering Technician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Automotive Engineering Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Automotive Engineering Technician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Automotive Engineering Technician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Automotive Engineering Technicians is projected to grow 1.3% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·37% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·41% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Automotive Engineering Technician make?
The median Automotive Engineering Technician earns $75k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Automotive Engineering Technician jobs?
Our model puts Automotive Engineering Technician at 45 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 37% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 41% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Automotive Engineering Technician a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 1.3% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 3,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Automotive Engineering Technician?
Most Automotive Engineering Technician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become an Automotive Engineering Technician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Automotive Engineering Technician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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