Project manager, development of new vehicles and engines

What does a project manager within the development of new vehicles and engines do? – Tasks and work environment

A project manager in the development of new vehicles and engines is responsible for leading and coordinating complex development projects within the automotive industry. Tasks include planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and managing cross-functional teams that may include engineers, designers, and specialists in production and quality. Projects often involve developing new engines, drivetrains, or entire vehicles, where the project manager ensures that technical goals, timelines, and budgets are met according to set requirements. The work environment is usually office-based, but there are also frequent meetings in workshops, testing facilities, and production environments, especially in collaboration with suppliers and subcontractors.

Salary development over time

The salary for project managers in the development of new vehicles and engines has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,500 SEK per month, which increased to 49 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 52 000 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 9.5% over the period. Rising demand for technical competence, especially in electrification and sustainability-related vehicle development, has driven up salaries. There is still a shortage of qualified project managers in the industry, which further boosts salary development and makes the profession attractive for technically educated individuals with leadership ambitions.

Project manager – development of new vehicles and engines salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 52 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, short post-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 63,000 SEK/month (male, private employee, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 313 SEK
• Women: 49 900 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men: 52 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but the highest-paying positions are mainly found in metropolitan areas and tech clusters.

Education and qualifications

To work as a project manager in the development of new vehicles and engines, a master's degree in mechanical engineering or a related technical field is generally required. Many employers also seek experience in project management, preferably with additional training in leadership or certification in project management. Practical experience from the automotive industry is highly meritorious, as are knowledge of modern vehicle technology and sustainability aspects.

• Master’s degree: 5 years in mechanical engineering or equivalent
• Certifications: Prince2, PMP, or similar project management certificates
• Internship/trainee: Recommended within the automotive industry
• Prerequisites: Strong technical background and experience with complex projects
• Specialization: Courses in electrification, sustainability, or advanced drivetrain technology

Common benefits and compensations

Project managers in the development of new vehicles and engines are often offered benefits such as company pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, remote work options, and access to corporate health services. Bonus programs and performance-based compensation may occur, especially in larger international companies. Business travel, further education, and skills development are also common features.

Competition and challenges

The role of project manager in vehicle development is characterized by high competition for the most attractive positions, especially in major tech clusters and metropolitan areas. Paradoxically, there is also a shortage of experienced and qualified candidates, explained by many leaving the profession and high recruitment requirements. Project managers often face challenges such as rapid technological changes, increased demands for sustainability and digitalization, and the need to quickly adapt to new regulations and market conditions. The ability to lead cross-functional and international teams is crucial for success.

Tips for those who want to become a project manager in the development of new vehicles and engines

To succeed as a project manager in vehicle development, it is good to combine technical knowledge with strong communication skills. Being analytical helps to quickly understand complex problems and make well-founded decisions, while a structured work approach facilitates managing large projects and many parallel processes. Clear leadership and the ability to motivate the team are essential, as is flexibility and adaptability when unexpected challenges arise. It is also advantageous to actively seek further education in both technology and project management to stay updated. Finally, practical experience in the automotive industry is highly valued, so obtaining relevant internships early can be crucial for establishing oneself in the field.

Key facts about Project Managers, development of new vehicles and engines

• Educational level: Master's degree (5 years) recommended
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of workshop and testing environment
• Typical working method: Project-based and often international collaboration
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in tech clusters
• Special knowledge: Experience in electrification and sustainability highly valued

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a project manager in the development of new vehicles and engines, there are good opportunities to advance to senior roles such as program manager, development director, or specialist in advanced vehicle technology. Some choose to deepen their expertise in specific technical areas, such as electrification or autonomous systems, while others move into leadership positions at the corporate level. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities within the profession of mechanical engineers are large and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, the industry is characterized by recruitment difficulties, which means the demand for qualified project managers remains high. Currently, there are 564 job openings in the profession, highlighting the need for new skilled personnel.

Common questions about project managers in the development of new vehicles and engines

• What does a project manager in the development of new vehicles and engines earn?
  - The average salary is 52 000 SEK per month, with variations between 47,800 SEK and 63,000 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a project manager in vehicle development?
  - A master's degree in mechanical engineering or a similar technical field is most common, often complemented by project management training or certification.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Leadership, analytical ability, structured work methods, and good communication skills are highly valued.
• What benefits are offered?
  - Company pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, remote work options, and opportunities for skills development are common benefits.
• How many job openings are there within the profession?
  - Currently, there are 564 job openings for mechanical engineers, which include the profession.