## How Much Does a Car Engineer Make per Hour?
Car engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing new cars. They work in a variety of industries, including automotive manufacturing, racing, and transportation. The salary of a car engineer can vary depending on their experience, education, and location.
Salary Range
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for automotive engineers was $95,300 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $56,380, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $157,140.
The BLS also reports that the median hourly wage for automotive engineers was $45.82 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $27.10 per hour, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $75.55 per hour.
Factors Affecting Salary
There are several factors that can affect the salary of a car engineer, including:
* **Experience:** Car engineers with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those with less experience.
* **Education:** Car engineers with a master’s degree or doctorate typically earn higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
* **Location:** Car engineers who work in high-cost areas, such as New York City or San Francisco, typically earn higher salaries than those who work in low-cost areas, such as rural areas.
* **Industry:** Car engineers who work in the automotive manufacturing industry typically earn higher salaries than those who work in other industries, such as racing or transportation.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for car engineers is expected to be good over the next decade. The BLS projects that the number of jobs for automotive engineers will grow by 5% from 2021 to 2031. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing demand for new cars and the growing use of autonomous and electric vehicles.
Tips for Increasing Your Salary
There are several things you can do to increase your salary as a car engineer, including:
* **Get a higher degree:** A master’s degree or doctorate in automotive engineering can significantly increase your salary potential.
* **Gain experience:** The more experience you have, the more valuable you will be to potential employers.
* **Network:** Attend industry events and conferences to meet other car engineers and learn about new job opportunities.
* **Negotiate your salary:** When you are negotiating your salary, be sure to research the average salary for car engineers in your area and be prepared to justify why you deserve a higher salary.
Conclusion
The salary of a car engineer can vary depending on their experience, education, and location. However, the median annual salary for automotive engineers is $95,300, and the median hourly wage is $45.82. The job outlook for car engineers is expected to be good over the next decade. If you are interested in a career as a car engineer, there are several things you can do to increase your salary potential.
