Malaysia’s automotive industry continues to expand, driven by domestic demand and regional exports. The government’s focus on transforming the country into a regional automotive hub opens up increasing job opportunities.
From engineering and design to sales, logistics, and after-sales service, the industry offers a broad range of roles for professionals across different educational and technical backgrounds.
With increasing investment in electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving technologies, and smart manufacturing, professionals can work at the forefront of innovation and automation.
The Malaysian government supports the automotive sector through various initiatives under the National Automotive Policy (NAP), encouraging job creation, skills development, and foreign investment.
Skilled professionals in the industry often receive competitive compensation packages, along with opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
Malaysia’s central location within Southeast Asia provides easy access to neighboring markets, making it an attractive base for international automotive companies and a gateway to regional opportunities.
There is a growing emphasis on environmentally friendly transportation solutions, offering roles in green mobility development, EV infrastructure, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Malaysia hosts numerous global automotive manufacturers and suppliers, allowing professionals to gain international exposure and experience world-class work environments.
Malaysia is actively developing its electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem, creating opportunities for international talent in EV design, battery technology, and software integration for smart vehicles.
Automotive companies in Malaysia are investing in research and development centers, opening creative roles for international candidates in concept design, advanced manufacturing, and automotive prototyping.
International professionals can work alongside leading global automotive brands and Tier 1 suppliers, contributing to regional projects while sharing their own expertise in new market innovations.
Malaysia’s growing startup ecosystem includes automotive tech firms focused on mobility solutions, fleet management software, and AI-powered vehicle systems—ideal for creative thinkers and tech-savvy professionals.
With a multicultural workforce and strong ASEAN trade links, international candidates can thrive in a collaborative environment and participate in cross-border automotive projects throughout Southeast Asia.
Malaysia’s commitment to green mobility and reduced carbon emissions creates roles for international experts in sustainable materials, energy-efficient vehicle components, and clean transport technologies.
As the automotive market becomes more competitive, there’s demand for international professionals in branding, digital marketing, and customer experience strategy tailored to Southeast Asian consumers.
Government initiatives under the National Automotive Policy support knowledge transfer and international recruitment, making it easier for skilled foreign professionals to secure work permits and contribute to national innovation goals.
Responsible for the design, development, and testing of vehicle systems and components such as engines, transmissions, and chassis.
Focuses on the mechanical aspects of vehicle production, ensuring parts and systems function efficiently and reliably.
Works on the development of electronic systems in vehicles, including infotainment, navigation, and safety features.
Handles routine maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs of cars and commercial vehicles in service centers and workshops.
Monitors the production process and inspects components to ensure vehicles meet safety and quality standards.
Creates the aesthetic and functional design of vehicles, focusing on both exterior styling and interior layouts.
Oversees the manufacturing process, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and safety on the factory floor.
Promotes and sells vehicles to customers, handles dealer relationships, and manages marketing campaigns for new models.
Manages the procurement, storage, and distribution of automotive parts and components across the supply chain.
Conducts experiments, tests new automotive technologies, and supports product innovation and development.
Evaluates vehicles to ensure they meet legal and environmental standards, often working for regulatory bodies or inspection centers.
Focuses on the development, repair, or promotion of electric vehicles and related infrastructure, such as charging stations.
Develops embedded software and digital systems for modern vehicles, including autonomous driving features and connectivity tools.
Acts as a liaison between customers and service departments, ensuring clients understand repairs and services performed.
Oversees customer support, warranty issues, and service quality after vehicle sales to maintain customer satisfaction.
Job Title |
MYR/month |
USD/month |
INR/month |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
5,500 |
1,165 |
₹97,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
5,200 |
1,100 |
₹91,500 |
|
Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
5,800 |
1,230 |
₹1,02,300 |
|
Automotive Technician/Mechanic |
3,000 |
635 |
₹52,800 |
|
Quality Control Specialist |
5,000 |
1,060 |
₹88,200 |
|
Design Engineer / Automotive Designer |
6,000 |
1,270 |
₹1,05,900 |
|
Production & Manufacturing Engineer |
5,500 |
1,165 |
₹97,000 |
|
Sales & Marketing Executive |
4,500 |
950 |
₹79,300 |
|
Supply Chain & Logistics Coordinator |
5,200 |
1,100 |
₹91,500 |
|
R&D Specialist |
6,500 |
1,375 |
₹1,15,000 |
|
Vehicle Inspector |
3,800 |
805 |
₹67,000 |
|
Electric Vehicle (EV) Specialist |
6,800 |
1,440 |
₹1,20,300 |
|
Automotive Software Developer |
7,000 |
1,480 |
₹1,23,800 |
|
Customer Service Advisor |
3,500 |
740 |
₹61,600 |
|
After-Sales Service Manager |
6,000 |
1,270 |
₹1,05,900 |
|
Workshop Manager |
5,800 |
1,230 |
₹1,02,300 |
|
Diagnostic Specialist |
5,200 |
1,100 |
₹91,500 |
|
Test Driver / Test Engineer |
4,500 |
950 |
₹79,300 |
|
Spare Parts Manager |
5,000 |
1,060 |
₹88,200 |
|
Automotive Painter / Body Repair Technician |
3,200 |
675 |
₹56,300 |
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
Bachelor's degree or diploma in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, etc.) or related technical field. |
|
Work Experience |
2–5 years minimum for mid-level roles; higher experience needed for senior/managerial positions. |
|
Relevant Skills |
Technical knowledge (CAD, diagnostics, EV systems), problem-solving, hands-on skills, etc. |
|
Language Proficiency |
English (mandatory); Malay is a plus but not compulsory for most technical roles. |
|
Work Visa/Employment Pass |
Must secure a valid Employment Pass issued by the Malaysian Immigration Department through employer sponsorship. |
|
Job Offer from Malaysian Employer |
Required before applying for a work visa; employer must be registered and authorized to hire foreigners. |
|
Regulatory Certifications (if any) |
For specific roles (e.g., vehicle inspection), local certifications or licensing may be required. |
|
Health & Medical Clearance |
Mandatory medical check-up as part of the visa approval process. |
|
Age Limit |
Generally between 21–50 years for Employment Pass applicants (flexible depending on role). |
|
Clean Background Check |
No criminal record; background verification is usually required. |
|
Industry-Specific Tools Knowledge |
Familiarity with automotive tools, diagnostic systems, or design software (like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.). |
Job Title |
General Roles and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
1. Automotive Engineer |
Design, test, and improve vehicle systems including engines, transmissions, and safety features. |
|
2. Mechanical Engineer |
Develop mechanical components and systems, ensuring efficiency, durability, and compliance. |
|
3. Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
Design and maintain electrical systems such as wiring, sensors, infotainment, and vehicle electronics. |
|
4. Automotive Technician/Mechanic |
Perform routine vehicle maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of mechanical and electrical systems. |
|
5. Quality Control Specialist |
Inspect and test automotive components, ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. |
|
6. Automotive Designer |
Create design concepts for vehicles, including exterior styling and interior ergonomics. |
|
7. Production/Manufacturing Engineer |
Monitor manufacturing processes, ensure efficiency, quality, and process improvements. |
|
8. Sales & Marketing Executive |
Promote vehicle sales, handle customer queries, create marketing campaigns, and meet sales targets. |
|
9. Supply Chain & Logistics Coordinator |
Manage procurement, inventory, warehousing, and distribution of parts and vehicles. |
|
10. R&D Specialist |
Conduct research, develop and test new automotive technologies and innovations. |
|
11. Vehicle Inspector |
Assess vehicle roadworthiness, safety compliance, and environmental standards. |
|
12. Electric Vehicle (EV) Specialist |
Work on EV technology, including battery systems, motors, charging infrastructure, and diagnostics. |
|
13. Automotive Software Developer |
Develop and maintain embedded systems and applications for connected and autonomous vehicles. |
|
14. Customer Service Advisor |
Interface with customers in service centers, explain repair work, and ensure customer satisfaction. |
|
15. After-Sales Service Manager |
Oversee warranty claims, service quality, customer follow-up, and technical support. |
|
16. Workshop Manager |
Manage daily workshop operations, staff schedules, inventory, and ensure timely service delivery. |
|
17. Diagnostic Specialist |
Use advanced tools to diagnose complex automotive problems and recommend solutions. |
|
18. Test Driver / Test Engineer |
Test vehicles under various conditions to evaluate performance, safety, and compliance. |
|
19. Spare Parts Manager |
Manage inventory, procurement, and supply of automotive parts to ensure availability and efficiency. |
|
20. Automotive Painter / Body Repair Technician |
Refinish damaged vehicle surfaces, repaint, and repair vehicle bodywork. |
Job Title |
Educational Qualification |
Experience Required |
Other Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1. Automotive Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Automotive/Mechanical Engineering |
2–5 years |
CAD, vehicle systems knowledge |
|
2. Mechanical Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering |
2–4 years |
SolidWorks/AutoCAD, manufacturing process knowledge |
|
3. Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Electrical/Electronics Engineering |
2–5 years |
PCB design, wiring, circuit analysis |
|
4. Automotive Technician/Mechanic |
Diploma in Automotive Technology |
2–3 years |
Hands-on repair skills, diagnostic tools |
|
5. Quality Control Specialist |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Engineering or Quality Management |
3+ years |
ISO standards, inspection tools |
|
6. Automotive Designer |
Degree in Industrial or Automotive Design |
2–5 years |
Sketching, 3D modeling (e.g., CATIA, Alias) |
|
7. Production/Manufacturing Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering |
2–4 years |
Lean manufacturing, process optimization |
|
8. Sales & Marketing Executive |
Degree/Diploma in Business, Marketing, or Automotive Sales |
1–3 years |
Communication skills, automotive product knowledge |
|
9. Supply Chain & Logistics Coordinator |
Degree in Logistics/Supply Chain Management |
2–3 years |
SAP/ERP tools, inventory management |
|
10. R&D Specialist |
Master’s/Bachelor’s in Engineering or Applied Sciences |
3–6 years |
Innovation, product testing, prototyping |
|
11. Vehicle Inspector |
Diploma/Certificate in Automotive Inspection |
2–3 years |
Compliance knowledge, inspection tools |
|
12. Electric Vehicle (EV) Specialist |
Bachelor’s in Electrical/Mechanical/EV Tech |
3+ years |
EV systems, battery tech, safety protocols |
|
13. Automotive Software Developer |
Degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering |
2–5 years |
Embedded systems, C++, Python, vehicle networking |
|
14. Customer Service Advisor |
Diploma/Degree in Automotive or Customer Service |
1–3 years |
Communication, technical understanding of vehicle issues |
|
15. After-Sales Service Manager |
Degree in Automotive, Engineering, or Business |
4–6 years |
CRM tools, team leadership, warranty management |
|
16. Workshop Manager |
Diploma/Degree in Automotive Engineering |
4+ years |
Staff management, scheduling, technical expertise |
|
17. Diagnostic Specialist |
Diploma/Certificate in Automotive Diagnostics |
2–4 years |
Use of diagnostic tools, technical knowledge |
|
18. Test Driver / Test Engineer |
Diploma/Degree in Automotive or Mechanical Engineering |
2–3 years |
Valid license, safety testing, vehicle dynamics understanding |
|
19. Spare Parts Manager |
Diploma/Degree in Automotive or Logistics |
2–4 years |
Inventory systems, supplier coordination |
|
20. Automotive Painter / Body Repair Technician |
Certificate/Diploma in Auto Body Repair or Painting |
2–3 years |
Painting, dent removal, surface prep |
Job Title |
Experience Required |
Job Level |
|---|---|---|
|
1. Automotive Engineer |
2–5 years |
Mid-level |
|
2. Mechanical Engineer |
2–4 years |
Mid-level |
|
3. Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
2–5 years |
Mid-level |
|
4. Automotive Technician/Mechanic |
1–3 years |
Entry to Mid-level |
|
5. Quality Control Specialist |
3–5 years |
Mid-level |
|
6. Automotive Designer |
2–5 years |
Mid to Senior-level |
|
7. Production/Manufacturing Engineer |
2–4 years |
Mid-level |
|
8. Sales & Marketing Executive |
1–3 years |
Entry to Mid-level |
|
9. Supply Chain & Logistics Coordinator |
2–3 years |
Mid-level |
|
10. R&D Specialist |
3–6 years |
Mid to Senior-level |
|
11. Vehicle Inspector |
2–3 years |
Entry to Mid-level |
|
12. Electric Vehicle (EV) Specialist |
3–6 years |
Mid to Senior-level |
|
13. Automotive Software Developer |
2–5 years |
Mid-level |
|
14. Customer Service Advisor |
1–3 years |
Entry to Mid-level |
|
15. After-Sales Service Manager |
4–6 years |
Senior-level |
|
16. Workshop Manager |
4–7 years |
Senior-level |
|
17. Diagnostic Specialist |
2–4 years |
Mid-level |
|
18. Test Driver / Test Engineer |
2–3 years |
Entry to Mid-level |
|
19. Spare Parts Manager |
2–4 years |
Mid-level |
|
20. Automotive Painter / Body Repair Technician |
1–3 years |
Entry to Mid-level |
Company Name |
Headquarters / Location |
Specialization |
Hiring Focus for International Talent |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Proton Holdings Berhad |
Shah Alam, Selangor |
Vehicle manufacturing (national car brand) |
R&D, engineering, quality control |
|
Perodua (Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua) |
Rawang, Selangor |
Compact vehicles and mass-market cars |
Design, production engineering, supply chain |
|
DRB-HICOM Berhad |
Shah Alam, Selangor |
Conglomerate (owns Proton, assembly plants) |
Automotive management, plant operations |
|
UMW Toyota Motor |
Shah Alam, Selangor |
Manufacturing and distribution of Toyota vehicles |
Engineering, supply chain, customer service |
|
Honda Malaysia |
Pegoh, Melaka |
Manufacturing and sales of Honda vehicles |
Manufacturing, logistics, technical R&D |
|
Bermaz Auto Berhad (Mazda) |
Glenmarie, Selangor |
Sales and distribution of Mazda vehicles |
Sales, marketing, service operations |
|
Sime Darby Motors |
Kuala Lumpur |
Automotive retail and distribution |
Business development, regional management |
|
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia |
Puchong, Selangor |
Premium car manufacturing and distribution |
Engineering, customer service, EV specialists |
|
BMW Group Malaysia |
Cyberjaya, Selangor |
Luxury vehicles and EVs |
Software, EV systems, sales strategy |
|
Tan Chong Motor Holdings (Nissan) |
Kuala Lumpur |
Manufacturing and distribution of Nissan vehicles |
Plant engineering, logistics, diagnostics |
|
Inokom Corporation |
Kulim, Kedah |
Vehicle assembly (BMW, Mazda, Hyundai) |
Assembly line management, manufacturing engineering |
|
HICOM Automotive Manufacturers |
Pekan, Pahang |
Contract manufacturing (Mercedes, Volkswagen) |
Assembly, quality control, logistics |
|
Continental Automotive Malaysia |
Penang / Petaling Jaya |
Automotive components and systems |
Software engineering, embedded systems, R&D |
|
Bosch Automotive Steering (MY) |
Penang |
Power steering systems & electronics |
Electronics, mechanical R&D, robotics |
|
Daihatsu (MBMR Group) |
Selangor |
Small vehicles and compact car manufacturing |
Technical support, engineering |
|
Naza Automotive Group |
Kuala Lumpur |
Multi-brand distributor (Peugeot, Kia) |
Aftersales, marketing, network development |
|
Modenas (Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional) |
Gurun, Kedah |
National motorcycle brand |
2-wheeler design, production, quality assurance |
|
Toyota Boshoku UMW |
Klang, Selangor |
Automotive interior parts manufacturing |
Quality engineering, process automation |
|
Aapico Hitech |
Selangor |
OEM parts and components |
Tooling, precision engineering |
|
Valeo Malaysia |
Rawang, Selangor |
Automotive thermal systems & electronics |
Mechatronics, EV parts, R&D |
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (MYR/month) |
Job Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
5,500 |
Bachelor’s in Automotive/Mechanical Engineering, 2–5 years experience |
Proton, Perodua, Honda, Toyota |
Design, test, and improve vehicle systems and components |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
5,200 |
Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, 2–4 years experience |
Bosch, Continental, DRB-HICOM |
Design and optimize mechanical systems used in vehicles |
|
Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
5,800 |
Degree in Electrical/Electronics, 2–5 years experience |
Continental, Valeo, BMW, Mercedes |
Design and maintain electronic vehicle systems like sensors, lighting, infotainment |
|
Automotive Technician |
3,000 |
Diploma/Certificate in Automotive Technology, 1–3 years experience |
Toyota, Nissan, Perodua |
Perform routine maintenance, repairs, diagnostics |
|
Quality Control Specialist |
5,000 |
Diploma/Degree in Quality or Engineering, 3+ years experience |
HICOM, Inokom, Valeo |
Inspect components, ensure manufacturing quality and compliance |
|
Automotive Designer |
6,000 |
Degree in Design/Engineering, 2–5 years experience |
Proton, Perodua, Sime Darby |
Create vehicle design concepts (interior & exterior) |
|
Production Engineer |
5,500 |
Degree in Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering, 2–4 years |
Inokom, Tan Chong, Aapico |
Manage production lines, optimize workflow, and ensure process efficiency |
|
Sales & Marketing Executive |
4,500 |
Degree/Diploma in Business/Marketing, 1–3 years experience |
Bermaz Auto, Naza, BMW Malaysia |
Promote vehicle sales, manage dealer network, marketing campaigns |
|
Supply Chain Coordinator |
5,200 |
Degree in Logistics/Supply Chain, 2–3 years experience |
DRB-HICOM, Toyota, Continental |
Manage logistics, procurement, part distribution |
|
R&D Specialist |
6,500 |
Master’s/Bachelor’s in Engineering, 3–6 years experience |
Bosch, Continental, Proton |
Research and develop new technologies, materials, and systems |
|
Vehicle Inspector |
3,800 |
Certificate/Diploma in Inspection or Automotive, 2–3 years |
PUSPAKOM, Perodua, Nissan |
Evaluate roadworthiness and compliance of vehicles |
|
EV Specialist |
6,800 |
Degree in Electrical/EV Tech, 3+ years experience |
Tesla (via partners), BMW, Bosch |
Develop, install, and maintain electric vehicle systems and components |
|
Software Developer (Automotive) |
7,000 |
Degree in Computer Science/Engineering, 2–5 years experience |
Continental, Bosch, Valeo |
Develop embedded systems, autonomous driving software, diagnostics |
|
Customer Service Advisor |
3,500 |
Diploma in Automotive or Customer Support, 1–3 years |
Toyota, Nissan, Honda |
Assist customers with service processes, explain repairs |
|
After-Sales Manager |
6,000 |
Degree in Business or Automotive, 4–6 years experience |
Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Bermaz |
Oversee warranty handling, service delivery, and customer satisfaction |
|
Workshop Manager |
5,800 |
Diploma/Degree in Automotive, 4–7 years experience |
Proton, Toyota, Sime Darby |
Manage daily workshop operations, staff, inventory, and workflow |
|
Diagnostic Specialist |
5,200 |
Diploma/Certificate in Diagnostics, 2–4 years experience |
Bosch, Honda, Nissan |
Identify and resolve complex vehicle issues using diagnostic tools |
|
Test Engineer/Driver |
4,500 |
Diploma/Degree in Engineering, 2–3 years, valid driving license |
Proton, Inokom, Perodua |
Perform safety, performance, and quality tests under real-world conditions |
|
Spare Parts Manager |
5,000 |
Diploma in Logistics/Automotive, 2–4 years experience |
UMW Toyota, Honda, Nissan |
Manage procurement, storage, and distribution of spare parts |
|
Body Repair Technician |
3,200 |
Certificate in Auto Body Repair, 1–3 years experience |
Toyota, Naza, Honda |
Refinish, paint, and repair damaged vehicle bodies and surfaces |
Visa Type |
Eligibility |
Validity / Duration |
Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Employment Pass (Category I) |
Professionals earning ≥ MYR 10,000/month with senior/technical roles |
Up to 5 years |
Suitable for highly skilled roles (e.g., R&D specialists, senior engineers, managers) |
|
Employment Pass (Category II) |
Skilled workers earning between MYR 5,000–9,999/month |
Up to 2 years |
Common for mid-level engineers, software developers, and technicians in the automotive sector |
|
Employment Pass (Category III) |
Semi-skilled roles earning MYR 3,000–4,999/month |
Up to 1 year (renewable 2 times) |
Typically for technicians or junior roles; stricter renewal and sponsorship rules apply |
|
Professional Visit Pass (PVP) |
Foreign experts or technicians on short-term assignments |
1–12 months (non-renewable) |
For installation, training, or support work; issued to those employed by foreign companies abroad |
|
Temporary Employment Pass |
For low- to semi-skilled foreign workers in manufacturing sectors |
Up to 3 years |
Rarely issued to foreign nationals in automotive unless under special agreements |
|
Dependent Pass (DP) |
Spouse/children of Employment Pass holders |
Same as main pass holder |
Dependents can stay, but need separate permission to work |
|
Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T) |
Highly qualified professionals with ≥ 3 years in Malaysia and consistent income |
Up to 10 years |
Best suited for long-term international professionals in automotive engineering or R&D |