Electric vehicle engineering jobs - why quality is so important
We recently spoke about innovation within the automotive industry, with Lindsay Hartland, Associate Partner at Huxley, discussing recent breakthrough announcements made by numerous OEMs and the impact this will have on electric vehicle engineering jobs. 2019 looks to be shaping up as a year to embrace change within the sector, as numerous high profile OEMs have revealed their plans to launch fully electric vehicles. As we continue to see boundaries being pushed and innovation being realised, the focus on quality has never been more important. But how will that impact those looking for electric vehicle jobs and automotive engineer jobs in the UK?
In the wake of this exciting announcement, we caught up with Lindsay again. He spoke to us about why a keen eye on quality is crucial for both skilled professionals looking for automotive engineer jobs in the UK and thriving manufacturers & autotech developers wanting to embrace the opportunities innovation offers with both hands.
Value of academia in electric vehicle engineering jobs
As previously discussed, the entire automotive space has gradually moved from a prominently mechanical engineering driven sector to more of a digitally-focussed arena. One of the biggest changes we’re seeing as part of these developments is an increased focus on quality when it comes to electric vehicle jobs. We’re operating in such competitive markets at the cutting edge of technology, and therefore engineers really do need to be exceptionally skilled to stand out. According to Lindsay, “In the past, having an HND or HNC qualification could have given you access to some of the best jobs within the industry, but this just isn’t the case anymore. EV, autonomous and connected vehicle technology is developing at an astronomical rate, with huge challenges still being faced – and to continue this trajectory it requires the best of the best. In the current climate, academic achievements are exceptionally important. This doesn’t mean to get the best automotive engineer jobs in the UK you need to have a doctorate, but being degree qualified with a chartered status will stand you in great stead.”
A wealth of opportunities available
Companies are looking for the highest quality of professionals when it comes to electric vehicle jobs, with a view to help move the industry towards the future. The demand for strong academic requirements is due to the rapidly evolving and complex nature of the technologies companies are utilising. But those who don’t meet the criteria right now shouldn’t necessarily be put off, explains Lindsay, “There’s lots of opportunities for professionals with base knowledge to grow their knowledge through further education – if this is something these engineers are passionate about then there’s so many opportunities available. In the current climate, having a strong level of education is important for those wanting to stand out in the market.”
In many other markets, it would be fair to say that advancing your skills and completing further education helps professionals to stand out, but for electric vehicle jobs in the UK, it’s now just a case that people need these skills to stand a chance of joining the most exciting companies with the best technology.
Companies pushing boundaries for automotive engineering jobs
However, the same is true for those looking to employ skilled professionals – across the industry, attracting the right talent is crucial. And if companies want access to the very best talent, they really need to be adopting a forward-thinking approach. Whether it’s an OEM, Tier 1, Tier 2 or Tier 3 supplier or a cutting edge autotech firm, it’s crucial that businesses are pushing boundaries and working on exciting product development with the most innovative technologies so that the best talent will want to work for them.
With a huge focus on the development of these new fundamental technologies, the demand for first-rate talent is increasing. Lindsay explains, “The top candidates will be truly passionate about the advancements in engineering and will want to work in an environment that’s pushing the boundaries of technology. Across the sector, we’ve seen numerous engineering professionals wanting to move on because the company they work for isn’t driving innovation forward as much as they’d like. The best candidates aren’t interesting in disengaging automotive engineering jobs, they want to work with the best companies, so to achieve this it’s important to be investing in people & product development. For skilled engineers, engineering isn’t just a 9-5 job, it’s something they’re truly enthusiastic about and they want to be working on projects and programmes that will truly drive change.”
To find out more about Huxley’s contribution to the automotive industry and to learn about the best electric vehicle engineering jobs on offer, get in touch with Lindsay today.
