Automotive Engineering Technician

Laboratory Technician (Lab Technician), Research Technician
Job Description

An Automotive Engineering Technician assists in the design, development, and testing of new automotive products, such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They work closely with automotive engineers to bring new vehicle systems and components from the conceptual stage to the market.

Typical Preparation

Education: Associate's degree

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: 0.6% (below average)

Annual job openings: 3 200

Direct AI exposure: 11% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 33% of tasks

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Automotive Service Technicians, Truck and Bus Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers. According to the wage tables, average income is $62K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$40K
per year
$46K
per year
$62K
per year
$77K
per year
$90K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $2.83K below the national average.

What does an Automotive Engineering Technician do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Assists in the design and development of automotive components and systems.
  • Conducts tests and experiments to evaluate the performance of automotive products.
  • Analyzes data from tests and simulations.
  • Prepares reports and documentation on development and testing processes.
  • Collaborates with engineers to troubleshoot and solve design and manufacturing issues.

Work environment

These technicians typically work in automotive manufacturing or research and development facilities. Their environment may include office spaces for design work and laboratories for testing, as well as manufacturing plants. The role often requires hands-on work with vehicles and components, sometimes in noisy and active industrial settings.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Vehicle Design: Focusing on the aesthetics and functionality of vehicle bodies.
  • Powertrain Systems: Specializing in the development of engines, transmissions, and related components.
  • Electric and Hybrid Technology: Working with electric vehicle systems and hybrid technologies.
  • Automotive Electronics: Concentrating on electronic systems in vehicles, such as infotainment and navigation systems.
  • Safety and Testing: Ensuring vehicles meet safety standards and performance criteria.

Description

Automotive Engineering Technicians play a crucial role in the automotive industry, bridging the gap between theoretical design and practical application. They collaborate with engineers to refine automotive designs and solve complex problems. The work is dynamic, often involving the latest automotive technologies, including electric vehicles and advanced driver-assistance systems.

The role requires a blend of technical knowledge and practical skills. Technicians must be proficient with various tools and software used in automotive testing and design. They need to be adaptable, as they may work on different aspects of a vehicle, from engine components to electrical systems.

Career satisfaction in this field often comes from being at the forefront of automotive innovation and seeing projects develop from initial concepts to finished products. Technicians are part of teams that bring new and improved vehicles to consumers, contributing to advancements in areas like fuel efficiency, safety, and performance.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Automotive Engineering Technician if you are...

Pros:

  • Involvement in a rapidly evolving industry with constant technological advancements.
  • Diverse opportunities across various sectors of the automotive industry.
  • Potential for hands-on work with the latest automotive technologies.

Cons:

  • Work environments that can be noisy and physically demanding.
  • The need to continually update skills and knowledge to keep pace with technological advancements.
  • Potential pressure to meet project deadlines and design specifications.

How to become an Automotive Engineering Technician

Typical education

Most positions require a college diploma in automotive engineering technology or a related field, which typically takes about 2 years to complete. Some roles might benefit from additional certifications or specialized training.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Mathematics and Physics for a solid foundation in engineering principles.
  • Computer Science to develop skills in software used in automotive design.
  • Technical drawing or drafting classes to enhance understanding of technical documentation.
  • Automotive shop classes, if available, for hands-on experience with vehicle mechanics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Join automotive or engineering clubs.
  • Participate in robotics competitions or similar technology-based challenges.
  • Volunteer or intern at automotive repair shops or dealerships.

Preparation after high school

  • Enroll in a college diploma program in automotive engineering technology or a related field.
  • Obtain Canadian automotive trade certifications, such as Automotive Service Technician certification with Red Seal endorsement or equivalent provincial apprenticeship credentials.
  • Gain practical experience through internships or co-op programs in automotive companies.
  • Keep abreast of the latest trends and technologies in the automotive industry through workshops and seminars.

More resources

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