10 jobs in the automotive industry you've never heard of

In Australia, the automotive industry employs around 300,000 people. It’s vast and diverse, and the industry is undergoing a massive transformation thanks to electric vehicles. While you’ve no doubt heard of well-known jobs such as engineers, mechanics and driving instructors, we wanted to shine a light on some lesser-known jobs that you may want to turn from curiosity into a career.

So check out these 10 jobs in the automotive industry you’ve probably never heard of. Who knows, your dream job might just be on this list.

Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver

Autonomous driving is still a fair way off becoming mainstream, and safety is the number one issue. Most OEMs employ safety drivers who monitor and oversee testing phases. Test drivers provide valuable feedback to manufacturers during the development process. An advanced driving background will be beneficial.

Windscreen Calibration Specialist

You’ll be responsible for the recalibration of vehicle camera systems to ensure optimal functionality after a windscreen replacement which would occur if a crack or hole (think hail or cricket balls) finds its way into the glass. The role will involve test-driving custom vehicles, adjusting based on computer analytics, and problem-solving on the go. No prior experience or study is required.

Vehicle Wrap Installer

Combine your interest in media and design and cars and work as a vehicle wrapper. In this hands-on role, you’ll apply vinyl wraps to cars, trucks, signage and window tints. While a qualification as a signwriter may be beneficial, most jobs offer on-the-job training and apprenticeships.

Automotive Cybersecurity Specialist

Every new car rolling off the line now comes fitted with a body computer, and that means they need protection from cyber threats and ensuring data security. Cybersecurity specialists focus on protecting vehicle computers by collaborating with software engineers to ensure security requirements are considered during the design and implementation phase. You will need a degree in cybersecurity or IT.

Automotive Materials Engineer

Materials engineering is a growing field in the automotive industry thanks to the push for sustainable materials. This job entails researching and developing innovative materials that can be used in vehicle construction. Materials need to be first and foremost safe, and also improve performance, comfort, efficiency and sustainability. You will need a degree in materials engineering to work in this industry.

Motorsport Videographer

Get behind the lens and capture action and content for teams at motorsport races. Most events can last for up to five days, with 10-12 hour days, so it’s a job for those who have a good attention span and stamina. The pace of work is quick, and the turnaround time is even quicker. You could work as a freelancer or within a broadcast team and you’ll need a qualification in photography or videography and experience shooting sport.

Crash Test Technical Officer

If you have strong technical and analytical capabilities and an interest in the safety side of vehicles, a career as a Crash Test Technical Officer might be for you. In Australia, ANCAP is the independent vehicle safety authority, and they perform tests with real vehicles and crash test dummies to determine the safety of every make and model. A Bachelor of Engineering will be required.

Relocation Driver

Rental car companies always need to move their fleet from A to B to keep up with demand. And they need drivers willing to relocate vehicles quickly and within short timeframes to branches right around the country. So if you’re interested in being paid to drive across Australia in cars or motorhomes, check out car and van rental companies for any opportunities. You will need to be over 21, have a full driver's licence and a clean driving record.

Race Team Assistant

Get your foot in the door with race teams as a Race Team Assistant. In this role you’ll be responsible for tasks such as air and road freight, liaising with suppliers, ordering repair parts and equipment, managing budgets and inventory. You’ll need a driver's licence and experience with budgets and logistics.

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