The U.S. automotive sector is at the forefront of technological innovation, including electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and smart manufacturing.
From engineering and design to marketing and supply chain roles, the industry offers a wide range of career paths.
The automotive industry contributes significantly to the U.S. economy and provides stable, high-paying jobs.
With ongoing advancements and investments in green technologies, there's strong potential for long-term career growth.
Working in the U.S. automotive sector often means collaborating with international teams and accessing global markets.
Home to industry leaders like Ford, General Motors, and Tesla, the U.S. offers international professionals the chance to work with some of the most influential companies in automotive history.
Whether it's electric vehicles, AI-driven autonomous cars, or sustainable manufacturing, the U.S. is where cutting-edge automotive tech comes to life—offering global talent a front-row seat to the future.
From Silicon Valley startups to Detroit's legacy automakers, opportunities range across R&D, software development, design, data analytics, and more.
The U.S. automotive industry thrives on diversity, offering international candidates a welcoming environment to bring unique perspectives and skills.
Many roles qualify under H-1B and STEM OPT, giving international students and professionals a solid path to gain U.S. work experience.
With major investments in EVs and clean energy transport, working in the U.S. automotive industry means contributing to global sustainability goals.
Automotive Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Electrical/Electronics Engineer
Systems Integration Engineer
Design Engineer (CAD/CAE)
Quality Assurance Engineer
Manufacturing/Production Engineer
Powertrain Engineer
NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) Engineer
Vehicle Dynamics Specialist
Battery and EV Systems Engineer
Autonomous Vehicle Researcher
Materials Scientist
Telematics Engineer
Embedded Software Developer
ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) Engineer
Data Analyst – Vehicle Performance
Machine Learning/AI Engineer (Autonomous Tech)
Cybersecurity Specialist (Automotive Systems)
Product Manager
Supply Chain Analyst
Operations Manager
Procurement Specialist
Sales & Marketing Executive (OEMs and Aftermarket)
Automotive Technician
Diagnostic Technician
Body and Paint Technician
Electric Vehicle Service Technician
Assembly Line Worker
Automotive Interior/Exterior Designer
UX/UI Designer (Infotainment Systems)
Human Factors Specialist
Clay Modeler
Test Engineer
Calibration Engineer
Emissions Testing Technician
Vehicle Safety Inspector
Job Title |
Average Salary (USD/year) |
Approx. Salary (INR/year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
$88,000 |
₹73,04,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Automotive) |
$85,000 |
₹70,55,000 |
|
Electrical/Electronics Engineer |
$90,000 |
₹74,70,000 |
|
Powertrain Engineer |
$92,000 |
₹76,36,000 |
|
Design Engineer (CAD/CAE) |
$82,000 |
₹68,06,000 |
|
Manufacturing Engineer |
$84,000 |
₹69,72,000 |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
$86,000 |
₹71,38,000 |
|
Embedded Systems Engineer |
$95,000 |
₹78,85,000 |
|
ADAS Engineer |
$105,000 |
₹87,15,000 |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Specialist |
$93,000 |
₹77,19,000 |
|
Battery Systems Engineer (EV) |
$100,000 |
₹83,00,000 |
|
Autonomous Vehicle Engineer |
$110,000 |
₹91,30,000 |
|
Data Analyst – Vehicle Performance |
$88,000 |
₹73,04,000 |
|
Cybersecurity Specialist (Automotive) |
$102,000 |
₹84,66,000 |
|
Software Developer (Automotive) |
$98,000 |
₹81,34,000 |
|
Product Manager (Automotive) |
$108,000 |
₹89,64,000 |
|
Supply Chain Analyst |
$78,000 |
₹64,74,000 |
|
Automotive Technician |
$55,000 |
₹45,65,000 |
|
EV Service Technician |
$60,000 |
₹49,80,000 |
|
Automotive Interior/Exterior Designer |
$80,000 |
₹66,40,000 |
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
Bachelor's or Master's in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, Software, etc.) |
|
Relevant Skills |
CAD, CAE, MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C++, EV systems, ADAS, embedded systems, diagnostics, etc. |
|
Experience |
Preferred 1–5 years (more for senior roles); internships/co-ops for entry-level |
|
English Proficiency |
Required; TOEFL/IELTS (mostly for academic admission, not jobs) |
|
Work Authorization |
H-1B Visa, OPT (for F-1 students), L-1, O-1, or Green Card |
|
STEM Degree (for OPT extension) |
Must hold a STEM-designated degree (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Engineering) |
|
Sponsorship Requirement |
Must secure a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor H-1B or other visa types |
|
Certifications (optional) |
Six Sigma, PMP, Automotive SPICE, ISO/TS 16949 (can boost employability) |
|
Background Check |
Clean criminal record, employment and education verification usually required |
|
Licensing (if applicable) |
PE License (for some engineering roles – not mandatory for all automotive positions) |
|
Cultural Fit & Soft Skills |
Strong communication, teamwork, adaptability, innovation mindset |
|
Internship or Co-op Experience |
Strongly preferred for recent graduates or entry-level applicants |
|
Portfolio (for Designers/Engineers) |
Design portfolio, project demos, GitHub repositories helpful in technical interviews |
Job Profile |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
Design, develop, and improve vehicle systems, ensuring performance, safety, and efficiency. |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Automotive) |
Work on mechanical components like engines, brakes, suspension, and HVAC systems. |
|
Electrical Engineer (Automotive) |
Design and test electrical systems including wiring, sensors, and control units. |
|
Design Engineer (CAD/CAE) |
Create 2D/3D models, run simulations, and assist with prototype development. |
|
Manufacturing Engineer |
Optimize manufacturing processes, improve productivity, and ensure quality in assembly lines. |
|
Powertrain Engineer |
Design and test engines, transmissions, and hybrid/electric power systems. |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
Develop testing protocols, conduct inspections, and ensure compliance with industry standards. |
|
Embedded Systems Engineer |
Develop and test embedded software for ECUs and vehicle control systems. |
|
ADAS Engineer |
Design, test, and validate advanced driver-assistance systems like lane-keeping and adaptive cruise. |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Specialist |
Analyze and optimize vehicle ride, handling, and performance characteristics. |
|
Battery Systems Engineer (EV) |
Design and manage battery architecture, safety systems, and thermal management in EVs. |
|
Autonomous Vehicle Engineer |
Work on perception, decision-making, and control algorithms for self-driving vehicles. |
|
Data Analyst – Vehicle Performance |
Analyze sensor and performance data to guide design and optimization decisions. |
|
Cybersecurity Specialist (Automotive) |
Protect vehicle software and networks from hacking and cyber threats. |
|
Software Developer (Automotive) |
Build applications for infotainment, diagnostics, telematics, and control systems. |
|
Product Manager (Automotive) |
Define product strategy, coordinate development, and ensure product meets market requirements. |
|
Supply Chain Analyst |
Manage sourcing, inventory, logistics, and supplier relationships for automotive components. |
|
Automotive Technician |
Perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repair on vehicles in workshops or service centers. |
|
EV Service Technician |
Diagnose and repair issues specific to electric vehicles, including battery systems. |
|
Interior/Exterior Designer |
Conceptualize and design vehicle aesthetics, ergonomics, and user interface components. |
Job Profile |
Educational Requirement |
Key Skills/Tools |
Visa/Work Eligibility Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
B.E./B.Tech or M.S. in Automotive/Mech |
Vehicle systems, CAD, testing tools |
STEM OPT or H-1B eligible |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Automotive) |
B.E./B.Tech or M.S. in Mechanical Engg |
SolidWorks, CATIA, ANSYS |
H-1B friendly; STEM degree preferred |
|
Electrical Engineer (Automotive) |
B.E./B.Tech or M.S. in Electrical Engg |
Circuit design, MATLAB, Simulink |
High demand; STEM OPT/H-1B supported |
|
Design Engineer (CAD/CAE) |
B.E./B.Tech or Diploma with experience |
CAD tools (CATIA, Creo), CAE tools |
Entry-level roles may support OPT |
|
Manufacturing Engineer |
B.E./B.Tech in Industrial/Mech/Prod Engg |
Lean, Six Sigma, PLC |
Common H-1B sponsor field |
|
Powertrain Engineer |
B.E./B.Tech or M.S. in Mechanical/Auto |
Engine design, modeling tools |
Preferably M.S. holders with experience |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
B.E./B.Tech in Mech/Auto/Manufacturing |
ISO/TS standards, audits, QA tools |
H-1B or STEM OPT possible |
|
Embedded Systems Engineer |
B.E./B.Tech or M.S. in ECE/CS |
C/C++, RTOS, microcontrollers |
Highly eligible for H-1B; STEM OPT extension |
|
ADAS Engineer |
M.S. in ECE, Robotics, or CS |
AI, radar/lidar, sensor fusion |
High demand in autonomous tech companies |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Specialist |
M.S. in Mech/Auto with dynamics focus |
Simulation, control systems |
Advanced degree usually required |
|
Battery Systems Engineer (EV) |
M.S. in Electrical/Chemical/EV Engg |
Battery modeling, thermal systems |
Often sponsored via H-1B; niche expertise |
|
Autonomous Vehicle Engineer |
M.S. in Robotics, CS, or AI |
Python, ROS, ML frameworks |
STEM fields with high sponsorship rate |
|
Data Analyst – Vehicle Performance |
B.E./B.Tech + Data Certs or M.S. in Data |
Python, SQL, MATLAB |
Entry and mid-level roles open to STEM OPT |
|
Cybersecurity Specialist (Automotive) |
M.S. in Cybersecurity or CS |
CAN bus security, encryption |
O-1 or H-1B possible with proven expertise |
|
Software Developer (Automotive) |
B.E./B.Tech or M.S. in CS/Software Engg |
Embedded C, Java, Linux |
One of the most H-1B-friendly roles |
|
Product Manager (Automotive) |
B.E./B.Tech + MBA preferred |
Project tools, business acumen |
Requires business justification for H-1B |
|
Supply Chain Analyst |
BBA, B.E., or MBA in SCM/Operations |
SAP, ERP, logistics systems |
OPT friendly, H-1B possible in larger firms |
|
Automotive Technician |
Diploma/Certificate in Auto Tech |
Diagnostics, tools handling |
Usually requires permanent work authorization |
|
EV Service Technician |
Certificate or Associate Degree (EV focus) |
EV repair, battery service tools |
Rarely sponsored; local license often required |
|
Interior/Exterior Designer |
B.Des or B.E. + design specialization |
Adobe, Alias, Sketching |
Portfolios essential; H-1B sponsorship varies |
Job Profile |
Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) |
Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) |
Senior-Level (6+ yrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
Yes |
Preferred |
Required |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Automotive) |
Yes |
Preferred |
Required |
|
Electrical Engineer (Automotive) |
Yes |
Preferred |
Required |
|
Design Engineer (CAD/CAE) |
Yes |
Preferred |
Required |
|
Manufacturing Engineer |
Yes |
Preferred |
Required |
|
Powertrain Engineer |
No (Rare) |
Yes |
Required |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
Yes |
Yes |
Required |
|
Embedded Systems Engineer |
Yes |
Yes |
Required |
|
ADAS Engineer |
No |
Yes |
Required |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Specialist |
No |
Yes |
Required |
|
Battery Systems Engineer (EV) |
No |
Yes |
Required |
|
Autonomous Vehicle Engineer |
No |
Yes |
Required |
|
Data Analyst – Vehicle Performance |
Yes |
Yes |
Preferred |
|
Cybersecurity Specialist (Automotive) |
No |
Yes |
Required |
|
Software Developer (Automotive) |
Yes |
Yes |
Required |
|
Product Manager (Automotive) |
No |
Yes |
Required |
|
Supply Chain Analyst |
Yes |
Yes |
Preferred |
|
Automotive Technician |
Yes (via training) |
Preferred |
Required |
|
EV Service Technician |
Yes (certification-based) |
Preferred |
Required |
|
Interior/Exterior Designer |
Yes (with portfolio) |
Preferred |
Required |
Company Name |
Specialization |
Visa Sponsorship |
Hiring Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Tesla |
Electric vehicles, autonomous tech |
Yes (H-1B, OPT) |
Software, mechanical, battery, manufacturing |
|
General Motors (GM) |
Automobiles, EVs (Chevy Bolt, etc.) |
Yes |
Mechanical, electrical, software, design |
|
Ford Motor Company |
Traditional and electric vehicles (Ford EVs) |
Yes |
R&D, embedded systems, vehicle dynamics |
|
Rivian |
Electric trucks and SUVs |
Yes |
EV systems, battery engineering, manufacturing |
|
Lucid Motors |
High-performance electric luxury vehicles |
Yes |
EV design, thermal engineering, software |
|
Toyota (USA Division) |
R&D, hybrid systems, manufacturing |
Yes |
Mechanical, quality, electrical engineering |
|
BMW USA (Spartanburg) |
Vehicle assembly, EVs |
Yes |
Manufacturing, logistics, quality |
|
Honda R&D Americas |
Engineering and design |
Yes |
Powertrain, mechanical, and vehicle testing |
|
Hyundai-Kia America |
Design, R&D, EVs |
Yes |
Software, design, connected cars |
|
Volvo Cars (USA) |
Safety systems, EVs, UX design |
Yes |
ADAS, UI/UX, embedded systems |
|
Magna International |
Automotive components and systems supplier |
Yes |
Systems engineering, electronics, robotics |
|
ZF Group |
Chassis, ADAS, driveline technologies |
Yes |
Embedded, electrical, quality assurance |
|
Continental AG (USA) |
ADAS, tires, and sensor tech |
Yes |
Autonomous systems, AI, radar/lidar |
|
Aptiv |
Smart vehicle architecture, software |
Yes |
Embedded, cybersecurity, AI/ML |
|
Bosch USA |
Automotive components, EVs, sensors |
Yes |
Embedded systems, diagnostics, power tools |
|
Waymo (Alphabet) |
Self-driving cars and autonomous platforms |
Yes |
AI, machine learning, robotics, data |
|
Cruise (GM subsidiary) |
Autonomous vehicle development |
Yes |
Computer vision, robotics, simulation |
|
NIO USA |
Electric vehicles and smart cockpit technology |
Yes |
Software, AI, EV battery, infotainment |
|
Panasonic Energy (Nevada) |
Battery cell production for EVs |
Yes |
Battery engineering, quality, plant operations |
|
LG Energy Solution |
EV batteries and energy storage solutions |
Yes |
Battery R&D, chemical engineering, QC |
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (USD/year) |
General Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Automotive Engineer |
$88,000 |
B.E./M.S. in Automotive/Mechanical, CAD tools, testing |
Tesla, GM, Ford, Toyota |
Design and test vehicle systems for performance, safety, and efficiency |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Auto) |
$85,000 |
B.E./M.S. in Mechanical, SolidWorks, thermal systems |
Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Bosch |
Develop engine, chassis, HVAC systems and ensure mechanical reliability |
|
Electrical Engineer (Auto) |
$90,000 |
B.E./M.S. in Electrical, MATLAB, circuit design |
GM, Lucid, Rivian, Bosch |
Design and test electrical/electronic vehicle components |
|
Design Engineer (CAD/CAE) |
$82,000 |
CAD tools (CATIA, Creo), FEA software |
Magna, ZF, Toyota, BMW |
Create 2D/3D designs, simulate models, assist prototyping |
|
Manufacturing Engineer |
$84,000 |
B.E./Industrial Engg., Lean/Six Sigma, PLCs |
Tesla, BMW, Panasonic, Honda |
Improve production systems, ensure efficiency and quality |
|
Powertrain Engineer |
$92,000 |
M.S. in Mechanical/Auto, engine design, simulation tools |
GM, Stellantis, Cummins, Toyota |
Develop and optimize engines, transmissions, hybrid/EV drivetrains |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
$86,000 |
B.E./Quality tools, ISO/TS standards, auditing |
Ford, Bosch, ZF, Hyundai |
Monitor processes, perform audits, ensure product quality |
|
Embedded Systems Engineer |
$95,000 |
B.E./M.S. in ECE/CS, C/C++, RTOS |
Aptiv, Bosch, Tesla, Continental |
Develop software for ECUs, sensor interfacing, control systems |
|
ADAS Engineer |
$105,000 |
M.S. in ECE/CS, radar/lidar, AI |
Mobileye, Waymo, GM Cruise, Aptiv |
Design and validate driver-assist technologies |
|
Vehicle Dynamics Specialist |
$93,000 |
M.S. in Mechanical/Automotive, simulation tools |
BMW, Ford, Honda |
Analyze and tune handling, suspension, and ride quality |
|
Battery Systems Engineer (EV) |
$100,000 |
M.S. in Electrical/Chemical, battery modeling |
Tesla, LG, Rivian, Panasonic |
Design EV battery systems, manage thermal, safety, and performance issues |
|
Autonomous Vehicle Engineer |
$110,000 |
M.S. in CS/Robotics, AI, Python, ROS |
Waymo, Cruise, Aurora, Nuro |
Build algorithms for perception, localization, and autonomous control |
|
Data Analyst (Vehicle Performance) |
$88,000 |
B.E. + Data Certs or M.S., Python, MATLAB |
Tesla, GM, Ford |
Analyze test and field data for vehicle optimization |
|
Cybersecurity Specialist (Auto) |
$102,000 |
M.S. in Cybersecurity/CS, network security, CAN bus |
Continental, Bosch, GM, Aptiv |
Secure vehicle communication systems, prevent cyber attacks |
|
Software Developer (Automotive) |
$98,000 |
B.E./M.S. in CS, embedded C/C++, Linux |
Tesla, Lucid, Aptiv, ZF |
Build automotive software for infotainment, diagnostics, and control |
|
Product Manager (Automotive) |
$108,000 |
B.E./MBA, product lifecycle knowledge |
Rivian, Ford, Tesla, GM |
Define and manage automotive product strategy |
|
Supply Chain Analyst |
$78,000 |
B.E./MBA, SAP/ERP tools, logistics knowledge |
BMW, Magna, Hyundai, Honda |
Manage sourcing, logistics, and component availability |
|
Automotive Technician |
$55,000 |
Auto tech diploma/certification, hands-on experience |
Toyota, Ford, GM dealers, AutoNation |
Perform vehicle diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs |
|
EV Service Technician |
$60,000 |
Certificate in EV systems, safety handling |
Tesla, Lucid, Rivian |
Service and repair EVs, including high-voltage systems |
|
Interior/Exterior Designer |
$80,000 |
B.Des or equivalent, Adobe, Alias, portfolio |
GM, Ford, BMW, Hyundai Design Studios |
Design visual aesthetics, ergonomics, and user interaction elements |
Visa Type |
Full Name |
Who It's For |
Duration |
Applicable Job Types |
Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
F-1 (OPT) |
Optional Practical Training |
International students in the U.S. on F-1 visa |
12 months (up to 36 w/ STEM) |
Entry-level roles in engineering, design, software |
Must have graduated from a U.S. college/university |
|
F-1 (STEM OPT Extension) |
OPT Extension for STEM degrees |
F-1 students with STEM degrees |
Additional 24 months |
Engineering, EV, autonomous, embedded systems |
Employer must be enrolled in E-Verify program |
|
H-1B |
Specialty Occupation Visa |
Professionals with a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialized field |
3 years (extendable to 6) |
Engineering, software, supply chain, product management |
Requires employer sponsorship; subject to lottery unless cap-exempt |
|
L-1 |
Intra-Company Transfer |
Employees transferring from a company’s foreign office to the U.S. branch |
1–3 years (extendable) |
Management, engineers, project leaders |
Must have worked abroad for the company for at least 1 year |
|
O-1 |
Individuals with Extraordinary Ability |
Highly accomplished individuals in science, engineering, or business |
3 years (extendable) |
Senior engineers, innovators, researchers |
Requires strong proof of achievement, publications, patents, etc. |
|
TN (NAFTA/USMCA) |
Trade NAFTA (for Canadians & Mexicans) |
Canadian or Mexican citizens in qualified professional roles |
1–3 years (renewable) |
Engineering and tech jobs |
Only for citizens of Canada or Mexico |
|
J-1 (Intern/Trainee) |
Exchange Visitor Visa |
Students or professionals undergoing training or internships |
6–18 months |
Internships, co-op, training roles |
Needs a J-1 sponsor; not a long-term work visa |
|
Green Card (EB-2/EB-3) |
Employment-Based Permanent Residency |
Skilled workers or professionals with degrees and job offers |
Permanent |
All long-term roles, especially senior or specialized roles |
Employer-sponsored; takes time but provides long-term work authorization |
|
H-2B |
Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker |
Short-term roles in industries with labor shortages |
Up to 1 year (renewable) |
Some technician/mechanic roles |
Limited use in automotive industry; less common for skilled professionals |
