Austria has a well-established automotive sector, with a strong focus on innovation, engineering excellence, and high-quality production. Many global automotive companies have operations here, creating numerous career opportunities.
The Austrian automotive industry is at the forefront of research and development, especially in areas such as electric mobility, lightweight construction, and digitalization. Working here means being part of cutting-edge technological advancements.
From engineering and design to production, logistics, and sales, Austria offers a wide range of roles within the automotive industry. Employees can benefit from structured career growth, professional training, and international work opportunities.
The automotive sector is one of Austria’s key economic drivers, contributing significantly to exports and employment. This ensures stability and growth for those pursuing careers in this field.
Austria emphasizes eco-friendly and sustainable automotive solutions. Working in this sector allows professionals to contribute to the development of green mobility, renewable energy integration, and environmentally responsible technologies.
Austria stands at the heart of Europe’s automotive industry, offering international professionals a chance to join one of the world’s most innovative and dynamic sectors. With strong ties to Germany, Italy, and other European hubs, Austria is a perfect launchpad for a global automotive career.
From high-performance engines to cutting-edge electric mobility solutions, Austria blends decades of engineering tradition with a bold vision for the future. International candidates can be part of teams shaping the next generation of sustainable and smart vehicles.
Whether your expertise lies in design, engineering, production, supply chain, or research & development, Austria’s automotive industry has a place for you. The sector actively welcomes international talent to bring fresh perspectives and skills to global projects.
Austria’s automotive companies collaborate with leading international brands and research institutions. As an international candidate, you will not only build your career locally but also connect with global networks and future-forward innovations.
Beyond the job, Austria offers a high quality of life—stunning landscapes, world-class public services, and a multicultural environment that makes international professionals feel at home. Here, your career and lifestyle grow hand in hand.
Type |
Description |
Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
|
Passenger Cars |
Manufacturing of vehicles for personal use, including luxury and eco-friendly cars. |
Electric cars, hybrid models, lightweight design. |
|
Commercial Vehicles |
Trucks, vans, and buses used for logistics, transport, and public services. |
Heavy-duty vehicles, efficiency, low emissions. |
|
Automotive Components |
Production of parts and systems supplied to international car manufacturers. |
Engines, transmissions, electronics, safety systems. |
|
Research & Development (R&D) |
Innovation-driven activities within the automotive sector. |
Autonomous driving, e-mobility, smart technologies. |
|
Automotive Engineering Services |
Specialized companies providing design, prototyping, and testing. |
Simulation, testing facilities, product design. |
|
Aftermarket & Services |
Businesses supporting automotive products after production. |
Spare parts, repair, maintenance, customization. |
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (EUR) |
Avg. Salary (USD) |
Avg. Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
€55,000 |
$59,900 |
₹49,50,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Automotive) |
€52,000 |
$56,700 |
₹46,80,000 |
|
Design Engineer |
€50,000 |
$54,500 |
₹45,00,000 |
|
R&D Engineer |
€60,000 |
$65,400 |
₹54,00,000 |
|
Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
€55,000 |
$59,900 |
₹49,50,000 |
|
Production Engineer |
€48,000 |
$52,300 |
₹43,20,000 |
|
Quality Engineer |
€50,000 |
$54,500 |
₹45,00,000 |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Engineer |
€62,000 |
$67,600 |
₹55,80,000 |
|
Manufacturing Manager |
€70,000 |
$76,300 |
₹63,00,000 |
|
Supply Chain Manager |
€68,000 |
$74,100 |
₹61,20,000 |
|
Project Manager (Automotive) |
€72,000 |
$78,500 |
₹64,80,000 |
|
Production Manager |
€65,000 |
$70,900 |
₹58,50,000 |
|
Maintenance Manager |
€58,000 |
$63,200 |
₹52,20,000 |
|
Test Engineer (Automotive) |
€53,000 |
$57,800 |
₹47,70,000 |
|
Mechatronics Engineer |
€55,000 |
$59,900 |
₹49,50,000 |
|
Automotive Software Engineer |
€62,000 |
$67,600 |
₹55,80,000 |
|
Safety Engineer |
€57,000 |
$62,100 |
₹51,30,000 |
|
Process Engineer |
€54,000 |
$58,900 |
₹48,60,000 |
|
CNC/Production Technician |
€40,000 |
$43,600 |
₹36,00,000 |
|
Automotive Sales Manager |
€66,000 |
$71,900 |
₹59,40,000 |
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
Bachelor’s/Master’s in Mechanical, Automotive, Electrical, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or related fields. |
|
Work Experience |
Relevant industry experience (2–5 years for mid-level, 5–10 years for senior roles). Internships and apprenticeships are also valued. |
|
Technical Skills |
CAD/CAM, CATIA, SolidWorks, MATLAB, Automotive software, Production & Quality tools, EV and mobility knowledge. |
|
Language Requirement |
English is widely accepted in multinational companies, but German proficiency (B1–B2) is highly preferred for better integration and communication. |
|
Work Permit / Visa |
EU Blue Card, Red-White-Red Card, or work visa sponsorship by an Austrian employer. |
|
Professional Certifications |
Certifications in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Automotive Safety (ISO 26262), or Project Management (PMP/PRINCE2) are advantageous. |
|
Adaptability & Cultural Fit |
Willingness to work in multicultural teams, adapt to Austrian work culture, and follow EU workplace standards. |
|
Health & Safety Compliance |
Must meet Austria’s occupational health and safety regulations (medical fitness may be required for some roles). |
Job Profile |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
Design, develop, and improve vehicles and automotive systems; ensure compliance with safety and efficiency standards. |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
Work on engines, transmissions, and mechanical systems; support production and testing. |
|
Design Engineer |
Create 2D/3D models of automotive parts; collaborate with R&D and prototyping teams. |
|
R&D Engineer |
Conduct research on new materials, technologies, and sustainable automotive solutions. |
|
Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
Develop vehicle electronic systems such as sensors, controllers, and infotainment. |
|
Production Engineer |
Optimize manufacturing processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency in production lines. |
|
Quality Engineer |
Implement quality checks, testing procedures, and ensure compliance with ISO/industry standards. |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Engineer |
Analyze and improve handling, stability, ride comfort, and performance of vehicles. |
|
Manufacturing Manager |
Oversee production operations, manage workforce, ensure targets and deadlines are met. |
|
Supply Chain Manager |
Manage procurement, logistics, and vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery of parts. |
|
Project Manager (Automotive) |
Plan, coordinate, and execute automotive projects within budget and timelines. |
|
Production Manager |
Supervise day-to-day plant operations, workforce management, and safety compliance. |
|
Maintenance Manager |
Ensure machinery and equipment are maintained, troubleshoot issues, and schedule repairs. |
|
Test Engineer (Automotive) |
Conduct vehicle and component testing, analyze performance, and recommend improvements. |
|
Mechatronics Engineer |
Integrate mechanical and electronic systems in vehicles; support automation and robotics. |
|
Automotive Software Engineer |
Develop and test embedded software for vehicle control, safety, and infotainment systems. |
|
Safety Engineer |
Implement safety protocols, analyze crash data, ensure vehicles meet EU safety regulations. |
|
Process Engineer |
Design and optimize industrial processes to improve efficiency and reduce waste. |
|
CNC/Production Technician |
Operate CNC machinery, manufacture precision parts, ensure quality in production. |
|
Automotive Sales Manager |
Lead sales teams, develop client relationships, meet revenue targets, and manage dealership operations. |
Job Profile |
General Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
Bachelor’s/Master’s in Automotive or Mechanical Engineering; knowledge of CAD, vehicle systems; German B1+ preferred. |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
Degree in Mechanical Engineering; hands-on design & manufacturing experience; EU safety standards knowledge. |
|
Design Engineer |
Degree in Design/Automotive Engineering; expertise in CATIA, SolidWorks; portfolio of design projects. |
|
R&D Engineer |
Master’s/PhD preferred; research experience; innovation in EV, AI, or autonomous systems is a plus. |
|
Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
Degree in Electrical/Electronics; automotive electronics, PCB design, embedded systems knowledge. |
|
Production Engineer |
Degree in Mechanical/Industrial Engineering; Lean/Six Sigma certification an advantage. |
|
Quality Engineer |
Degree in Quality/Industrial Engineering; ISO/TS 16949, Six Sigma, problem-solving skills. |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Engineer |
Master’s in Automotive/Mechanical; simulation tools (MATLAB/Simulink); chassis & suspension expertise. |
|
Manufacturing Manager |
Engineering degree + 7–10 yrs experience; leadership & plant management; German fluency highly required. |
|
Supply Chain Manager |
Degree in Supply Chain/Logistics; SAP, procurement knowledge; global sourcing experience. |
|
Project Manager (Automotive) |
Engineering/Management degree; PMP/Prince2 preferred; cross-functional coordination skills. |
|
Production Manager |
5–10 yrs plant experience; leadership & process optimization; German communication essential. |
|
Maintenance Manager |
Degree/Diploma in Mechanical/Electrical; preventive maintenance & troubleshooting skills. |
|
Test Engineer (Automotive) |
Degree in Mechanical/Electronics; vehicle testing, safety standards; driving license often required. |
|
Mechatronics Engineer |
Degree in Mechatronics/Automation; robotics & control systems expertise. |
|
Automotive Software Engineer |
Computer Science/Software Engineering degree; C/C++, Python, AUTOSAR, embedded systems knowledge. |
|
Safety Engineer |
Degree in Safety/Automotive; ISO 26262, crash test & risk analysis expertise. |
|
Process Engineer |
Degree in Industrial/Process Engineering; lean manufacturing; continuous improvement methods. |
|
CNC/Production Technician |
Technical diploma/apprenticeship; CNC programming & machining skills; vocational training recognized. |
|
Automotive Sales Manager |
Degree in Business/Marketing; automotive market knowledge; strong German + English skills. |
Job Profile |
Experience Required (Approx.) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
2–5 years |
Fresh graduates with internships are also considered. |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
2–4 years |
Hands-on design or manufacturing experience valued. |
|
Design Engineer |
1–3 years |
CAD/3D modeling internships often accepted. |
|
R&D Engineer |
3–6 years |
Advanced roles may require a PhD or published research. |
|
Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
2–5 years |
Automotive electronics or embedded systems focus. |
|
Production Engineer |
1–3 years |
Entry-level engineers with process knowledge fit well. |
|
Quality Engineer |
2–4 years |
ISO, Six Sigma, and supplier quality experience preferred. |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Engineer |
3–6 years |
Simulation and testing experience in chassis systems needed. |
|
Manufacturing Manager |
7–10 years |
Leadership experience in production plants essential. |
|
Supply Chain Manager |
6–9 years |
Experience in procurement/logistics & SAP is valued. |
|
Project Manager (Automotive) |
5–8 years |
Prior project coordination or PMP certification adds weight. |
|
Production Manager |
6–10 years |
Strong leadership and process optimization experience. |
|
Maintenance Manager |
5–8 years |
Hands-on machine and equipment maintenance expertise. |
|
Test Engineer (Automotive) |
2–4 years |
Vehicle testing or component validation experience needed. |
|
Mechatronics Engineer |
2–5 years |
Robotics, automation, and control systems knowledge required. |
|
Automotive Software Engineer |
3–6 years |
Embedded systems, AUTOSAR, and C/C++ programming experience. |
|
Safety Engineer |
4–7 years |
ISO 26262 and crash test/safety analysis expertise. |
|
Process Engineer |
2–5 years |
Lean manufacturing and process optimization background. |
|
CNC/Production Technician |
1–3 years |
Apprenticeship or vocational training often sufficient. |
|
Automotive Sales Manager |
5–8 years |
Prior sales/marketing experience in automotive sector required. |
Company |
Specialization |
Why They Hire International Talent |
|---|---|---|
|
Magna Steyr (Graz) |
Vehicle contract manufacturing, engineering services |
Global projects, diverse workforce, need for multilingual engineers. |
|
AVL List GmbH (Graz) |
Powertrain, e-mobility, simulation, testing solutions |
Strong focus on R&D, hires experts worldwide in automotive tech. |
|
BMW Motoren GmbH (Steyr) |
Engine manufacturing (diesel, petrol, hybrid) |
Skilled engineers needed for large-scale engine production. |
|
MAN Truck & Bus Austria (Steyr) |
Trucks, buses, commercial vehicles |
Requires specialists in heavy vehicle design & production. |
|
KTM AG (Mattighofen) |
Motorcycles, sports vehicles |
International market presence, hires global talent for innovation. |
|
Pankl Racing Systems |
High-performance racing and aerospace components |
Needs niche expertise in precision engineering & motorsport. |
|
Rosenbauer International (Leonding) |
Firefighting vehicles & safety systems |
Global clients, strong demand for mechanical & electrical engineers. |
|
Voestalpine AG (Linz) |
Automotive steel & lightweight components |
Supplies major carmakers, requires engineers in materials & production. |
|
Siemens Mobility Austria |
Rail & automotive mobility solutions |
Hires software, electrical, and systems engineers for smart mobility. |
|
ZF Friedrichshafen Austria |
Transmissions, chassis, safety systems |
Focus on e-mobility & autonomous driving; international hiring. |
|
Bosch Austria |
Automotive electronics, sensors, mobility solutions |
Global leader in electronics & AI-based automotive systems. |
|
Mahle Filtersystems Austria |
Automotive components (filters, engine parts) |
Continuous demand for engineers & technicians in component design. |
|
Miba AG (Laakirchen) |
Engine bearings, friction materials, power electronics |
Supplies global OEMs; attracts skilled process & production engineers. |
|
Infineon Technologies Austria |
Automotive semiconductors & microelectronics |
Focus on e-mobility, autonomous driving, chips for smart cars. |
|
TTTech Auto (Vienna) |
Autonomous driving safety software |
Global teams working on ADAS & autonomous vehicle technologies. |
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (EUR / USD / INR) |
General Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
€55,000 / $59,900 / ₹49.5L |
Degree in Automotive/Mechanical Eng.; CAD, German B1+ |
Magna Steyr, AVL, BMW |
Design & develop vehicles; improve efficiency & safety. |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
€52,000 / $56,700 / ₹46.8L |
Mechanical Eng. degree; hands-on manufacturing |
Voestalpine, MAN, KTM |
Work on engines, transmissions, and production processes. |
|
Design Engineer |
€50,000 / $54,500 / ₹45L |
Design/Auto Eng. degree; CATIA, SolidWorks |
Magna Steyr, KTM, AVL |
Create 2D/3D models; support prototyping & testing. |
|
R&D Engineer |
€60,000 / $65,400 / ₹54L |
Master’s/PhD; research experience in EV/autonomous tech |
AVL, Infineon, TTTech Auto |
Develop new technologies, materials, and solutions. |
|
Electrical/Electronics Eng. |
€55,000 / $59,900 / ₹49.5L |
Electronics Eng. degree; embedded systems |
Bosch, Infineon, ZF |
Develop sensors, circuits, and vehicle electronics. |
|
Production Engineer |
€48,000 / $52,300 / ₹43.2L |
Industrial/Mech. Eng. degree; Lean/Six Sigma |
Magna, Miba, Voestalpine |
Improve production efficiency, reduce waste & costs. |
|
Quality Engineer |
€50,000 / $54,500 / ₹45L |
Quality/Industrial Eng.; ISO, Six Sigma |
Bosch, Mahle, AVL |
Ensure quality standards; conduct audits & testing. |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Engineer |
€62,000 / $67,600 / ₹55.8L |
Mech./Auto Eng.; MATLAB, Simulink |
AVL, BMW, KTM |
Optimize handling, comfort, and safety of vehicles. |
|
Manufacturing Manager |
€70,000 / $76,300 / ₹63L |
7–10 yrs exp.; leadership, German fluency |
Magna, MAN, Voestalpine |
Manage plant ops, workforce & production targets. |
|
Supply Chain Manager |
€68,000 / $74,100 / ₹61.2L |
Degree in Logistics/Supply Chain; SAP |
Voestalpine, Rosenbauer, Miba |
Manage procurement, logistics & supplier relations. |
|
Project Manager (Auto) |
€72,000 / $78,500 / ₹64.8L |
Eng./Mgmt degree; PMP preferred |
Magna, AVL, ZF |
Lead automotive projects within budget & deadlines. |
|
Production Manager |
€65,000 / $70,900 / ₹58.5L |
6–10 yrs exp.; German required |
Magna, MAN, Voestalpine |
Oversee plant production, safety, and KPIs. |
|
Maintenance Manager |
€58,000 / $63,200 / ₹52.2L |
Mech./Elect. Eng. degree; troubleshooting |
MAN, BMW, KTM |
Maintain machines, ensure reliability & uptime. |
|
Test Engineer (Automotive) |
€53,000 / $57,800 / ₹47.7L |
Mech./Elect. Eng. degree; testing tools |
AVL, BMW, Rosenbauer |
Perform vehicle & component testing, report results. |
|
Mechatronics Engineer |
€55,000 / $59,900 / ₹49.5L |
Mechatronics/Automation degree |
Magna, Siemens Mobility, Miba |
Integrate mechanical & electronic systems in vehicles. |
|
Automotive Software Eng. |
€62,000 / $67,600 / ₹55.8L |
Comp. Science/Software Eng.; AUTOSAR, C/C++ |
TTTech Auto, Bosch, Infineon |
Develop embedded software for vehicles. |
|
Safety Engineer |
€57,000 / $62,100 / ₹51.3L |
Automotive Eng.; ISO 26262, safety standards |
AVL, Rosenbauer, BMW |
Ensure vehicle safety compliance, crash data analysis. |
|
Process Engineer |
€54,000 / $58,900 / ₹48.6L |
Industrial Eng.; Lean Manufacturing |
Miba, Magna, Voestalpine |
Optimize industrial processes, improve efficiency. |
|
CNC/Production Technician |
€40,000 / $43,600 / ₹36L |
Technical diploma/apprenticeship |
Voestalpine, Miba, Magna |
Operate CNC machinery; precision component production. |
|
Automotive Sales Manager |
€66,000 / $71,900 / ₹59.4L |
Business/Marketing degree; German + English |
BMW, KTM, Rosenbauer |
Lead sales, manage dealerships, meet revenue targets. |
Visa / Permit Type |
Eligibility |
Who It’s For |
Validity & Extension |
Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Red-White-Red Card |
Points-based (qualifications, experience, salary, German/English) |
Skilled workers in shortage occupations (e.g., engineers, technicians) |
24 months, renewable |
Most common work visa for non-EU automotive professionals. |
|
EU Blue Card |
University degree + job offer with salary above threshold (€45,595 gross/year, approx.) |
Highly qualified professionals (engineers, IT, R&D roles) |
24 months, renewable; pathway to long-term residence |
Easier mobility within EU countries. |
|
Job Seeker Visa (6 months) |
Must qualify as “very highly qualified” (points-based) |
Candidates searching for work in Austria (e.g., R&D, engineers) |
6 months (non-renewable) |
If job found, can switch to Red-White-Red Card. |
|
Red-White-Red Card Plus |
After 2 years of Red-White-Red Card with continuous employment |
Workers already in Austria with stable jobs |
3 years, renewable |
Grants free access to Austrian labor market (no employer tie). |
|
Residence Permit – Special Cases of Paid Employment |
Depends on employer sponsorship |
Foreign specialists, researchers, technicians on projects |
Duration of employment contract |
Often used for short-term or project-based assignments. |
|
Student Residence Permit → Work |
Student visa (study in Austria) + part-time work |
International students in automotive/engineering fields |
Valid for study duration, with work limitations |
Can transition to Red-White-Red Card after graduation. |
|
Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit |
Employee of multinational company transferred to Austria branch |
Senior managers, specialists, trainees |
Up to 3 years (managers/specialists), 1 year (trainees) |
Relevant for Magna, AVL, BMW, Bosch, etc. |
|
Seasonal/Temporary Work Permit |
Employer must prove labor need |
Short-term technicians, plant workers, trainees |
6–12 months |
Not common for engineers, mostly for short-term technical staff. |
