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Career Exploration

Automotive Engineering Technicians

Also called: Laboratory Technician (Lab Technician), Research Technician

What they do:

Assist engineers in determining the practicality of proposed product design changes and plan and carry out tests on experimental test devices or equipment for performance, durability, or efficiency.

On the job, you would:
  • Document test results, using cameras, spreadsheets, documents, or other tools.
  • Set up mechanical, hydraulic, or electric test equipment in accordance with engineering specifications, standards, or test procedures.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, work specifications, drawings, or charts.
On the job, you'll need:

Engineering and Technology

  • product and service development
  • mechanical

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
  • physics

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Transportation

  • movement of people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road

Basic Skills

  • reading work related information
  • talking to others

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Verbal

  • read and understand what is written
  • listen and understand what people say

Ideas and Logic

  • use rules to solve problems
  • make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information

Hand and Finger Use

  • put together small parts with your fingers
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Integrity
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Cooperation
  • Adaptability/Flexibility

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Autodesk AutoCAD Mechanical
  • PTC Creo Parametric

Analytical or scientific software

  • A&D Technology iTest
  • Data acquisition software

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Below Average.

New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $61,990

Education

Associate's degree or bachelor's degree is usually needed.