Find 7 High-Paying Automotive Jobs in the UK 2025

For each role, you’ll find a snapshot of what the job entails, core responsibilities, the skill set recruiters look for, and how much you can expect to earn annually.

Ready to discover where your next pay rise could come from?

High Paying Automotive Jobs Comparison Table

1. PCO Driver: Earning Power Behind the Wheel

What Does a PCO Driver Do?

PCO drivers operate private hire vehicles in cities like London, offering on-demand transportation services via Uber, Bolt, and Free Now. Unlike traditional taxi drivers, PCO drivers must work with a licensed operator and accept only pre-booked journeys. Every vehicle driven for hire must be registered and regulated through Transport for London (TfL) under the Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licensing scheme.

Securing a PCO licence from TfL is non-negotiable. The application requires a valid UK driving licence (held for at least three years), an enhanced DBS check, a medical examination, topographical skills assessment, and proof of English language proficiency. TfL also requires the car used to meet specific emission and age standards—for example, Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) vehicles are encouraged due to London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) policies.

A Specialist Path in Urban Mobility

Driving as a PCO isn’t just a survival job. For many, it becomes a specialised and strategic career choice. With flexibility built in, this role suits those wanting autonomy over their schedule. Routes can be optimised for profit, peak-time incentives can be planned, and partnerships with multiple platforms diversify income streams, reducing risk.

Specialisation is possible by focusing on airport runs, corporate clients, or chauffeur-level services in luxury vehicles, each offering higher average fares. Some drivers even move into fleet management or invest in multiple vehicles to sub-contract jobs to other licensed drivers.

The Required Qualifications

Full UK driving licence held for at least three years
PCO licence from TfL, which includes a topographical skills test, English language test, medical check, and a DBS background check
Insurance—hire and reward insurance is mandatory and often costly, but essential for legitimacy
Vehicle requirements - PCO cars must meet size, age, and ULEZ standards (e.g. Toyota Prius, electric models like the Kia e-Niro)

How Much Can a PCO Driver Earn in London?

According to GM Direct Hire’s 2023 earnings report, full-time PCO drivers in London earn between £800 to £1,200 per week, depending on hours worked, app efficiency, vehicle type, and licensing overhead. Drivers working 50-60 hours per week in peak locations hit the upper range consistently. Over a year, this translates into a gross annual income of around £41,600 to £62,400. Fleet vehicle owners or those offering premium rides with high-end electric vehicles can exceed these figures by 15–25%.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Fleet Management: Scaling by owning and managing multiple cars with hired sub-drivers
Chauffeur Services: Shifting towards executive travel and event driving for higher fare brackets
Platform Diversification: Increasing job volume and stability by combining Uber, Bolt, and corporate contracts
Vehicle Investment: Upgrading to electric or luxury vehicles to qualify for exclusive ride categories and bonuses

For those eyeing financial freedom or a stepping stone into vehicle leasing or transport logistics, the PCO route opens unexpected doors.

2. Automotive Engineering

What Does an Automotive Engineer Actually Do?

Automotive engineering pivots around the core of vehicle development — from conceptual design and structural integrity to performance analytics and system optimisation.

A Career Built on Specialisation and Creativity

Unlike broad-spectrum roles in the automotive world, this path leans into deep technical expertise. Specialisms emerge in areas like drivetrain development, combustion optimisation, infotainment systems, battery storage, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity.

Engineers lead testing programs, participate in prototyping trials, and collaborate with aerodynamicists to reduce drag coefficients. Some move into advanced R&D roles, spearheading the design of concept cars or developing the next generation of zero-emission vehicles. The job isn't only about mechanics — it's where precision meets vision.

Academic and Professional Prerequisites

Entry into this career requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering. High-ranking universities often offer modules covering CAD software, thermodynamics, materials science, and vehicle dynamics. Internships and industrial placements during studies often open doors to employers like Jaguar Land Rover, Aston Martin, or Rolls-Royce.

Chartered Engineer (CEng) status adds significant advantage for mid-level promotion and design authority, and many professionals pursue postgraduate degrees centered around mobility innovation, advanced propulsion systems, or electric powertrain engineering.

Earning Potential in the UK

Automotive engineers in the UK see average earnings between £45,000 and £70,000. Entry-level roles generally start around £28,000–£35,000 and scale quickly with project responsibility and technical depth.

Senior Design Engineer at a multinational OEM: £65,000–£80,000
Powertrain Development Lead: £70,000+
R&D Programme Manager in FCEV or EV technologies: £90,000–£110,000

3. Automotive Software Engineer

Few roles in the automotive sector match the technical precision and high-stakes innovation of an Automotive Software Engineer. Where mechanics once turned wrenches, engineers now write algorithms, shaping the behaviour of machines that think, learn, and anticipate.

Beyond the Dashboard: What They Build

Automotive software engineers architect the digital brains inside vehicles, designing and programming vital systems such as:

Embedded control units (ECUs) for managing engine performance and brake systems.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, and lane-keeping technologies.
Infotainment systems that seamlessly integrate navigation, entertainment, and smartphone connectivity.

Each of these components demands millisecond-level timing, high fault-tolerance, and seamless integration with hardware. The logic must operate flawlessly under thermal stress, constant vibration, and safety constraints. This work defines modern driving comfort and safety standards, and engineers are handsomely paid for delivering it.

High Skill Demand, Higher Compensation

The convergence of electric drivetrains and autonomous navigation has turned these professionals into some of the most sought-after specialists in the car industry. In the UK, automotive software engineers earn between £50,000 and £85,000 per year, according to data from Glassdoor and Hays Technology. At senior levels within top-tier manufacturers or self-driving tech firms, that figure climbs above £100,000 with equity options and bonuses.

Tools of the Trade

This career sits at the intersection of computer science and mechanical design, and calls for fluency in:

C and C++: For real-time embedded systems where every line of code must justify its memory use and timing.
MATLAB/Simulink: To simulate algorithms for signal processing, control loops, and sensor fusion before implementation.
AutoSAR (Automotive Open System Architecture): A must-know for modular and safety-certified software stacks in production vehicles.
CAN Protocols: For communicating between ECUs across a car’s internal network.

Where the Career Goes from Here

Software engineers in automotive settings rarely plateau. Their progression often leads to system architecture, technical lead roles, or even product management focused exclusively on software-intensive functions. Some transition into AI-based systems for driverless cars, while others specialise in over-the-air update platforms for EVs.

The value of software in cars now rivals the mechanical systems themselves. As a result, this role not only leads to consistently high salaries, but also puts professionals at the cutting edge of transforming mobility worldwide.

4. How Uber Drivers Earn Big in London

Requirements to Start Driving with Uber

To get on the road with Uber in London, you’ll need more than just a full UK driving licence. Every Uber driver in the capital operates as a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) driver, which means meeting Transport for London (TfL)’s strict criteria.

Vehicle licensing: The car must be no older than 10 years and meet Uber’s minimum requirements—typically a four-door car in excellent condition with a valid MOT, insurance, and PHV licence.
Driving licence: A full UK driving licence held for at least 3 years is mandatory. European Economic Area (EEA) licences are also accepted but may require conversion.
Private Hire Licence: TfL issues this licence after checking character references, running a criminal background check (enhanced DBS), conducting a medical exam, and verifying topographical (navigation) skills.

The application process often takes several weeks and includes a £124 licensing fee, along with additional costs for the medical, DBS check, and topographical assessment. Drivers must also complete a Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) assessment as of 2023.

Is Uber Driving Gig Work or Self-Employment?

Uber drivers in the UK have a unique employment status. A 2021 Supreme Court ruling classified them as “workers,” giving them access to benefits such as minimum wage, holiday pay, and pension contributions. However, they're still responsible for managing working hours, vehicle costs, and self-assessment tax filings like traditional self-employed individuals.

How Much Do Uber Drivers Make in London?

Earnings vary based on hours worked, time of day, and driver tier (UberX, UberXL, UberExec). Data compiled by Glassdoor and Indeed, aggregated in early 2024, shows that:

The average gross income for London Uber drivers sits between £35,000 and £45,000 annually.
Top-performing drivers, especially those working peak hours in central London, report earnings exceeding £50,000 per year.
On an hourly basis, post-commission but before expenses, drivers typically earn between £14 and £18.

5. Auto Sales Manager

High-performing auto dealerships never run on luck. They grow under the leadership of sharp, people-savvy Auto Sales Managers. These professionals bridge the gap between raw sales potential and consistent revenue growth, turning ambitious sales targets into everyday outcomes.

What Does an Auto Sales Manager Do?

The Auto Sales Manager oversees a team of salespeople, crafting strategies that convert foot traffic into closed deals. The scope extends beyond the showroom, too. Managers often contribute to:

Strategic pricing: Adjusting figures to match shifting market conditions and competitor promotions.
Marketing collaboration: Working with ad teams to position models effectively and draw footfall.
Customer experience: Ensuring potential buyers receive seamless, persuasive service from greeting to signature.
Inventory decisions: Identifying which models sell fast and which stagnate, and adjusting orders accordingly.

How Income Works in This Role

The base salary for Auto Sales Managers in the UK tends to range between £35,000 and £60,000, based on experience, location, and dealership size. But that’s just the starting line. Most roles include on-target earnings (OTE) or commissions, which can add another £10,000 to £40,000 annually.

Top performers in large metropolitan dealers often exceed these figures, especially when managing teams that consistently outpace quotas. The commission structure typically ties earnings to total dealership volume and profitability, not just individual car sales, creating strong incentives to drive team results.

Ideal Skill Set

Auto Sales Manager isn't an entry-level gig. It favours professionals who already know the tempo of a dealership floor and can manage people with authority and empathy. The most effective managers combine:

Team leadership experience: Confidence in performance reviews, conflict resolution, and skill development.
Customer handling finesse: Especially with high-value clients and complex transactions.
Data-driven thinking: Ability to read sales dashboards and pivot strategies when numbers dip.
Time discipline: The agility to balance daily fire-fighting with long-term initiatives.

Have you worked in automotive sales and felt ready for a step up? The jump to management brings higher stakes and bigger rewards. Waiting until you see a “Manager Wanted” sign? Real hustlers build that promotion in their results week by week.

6. Luxury Car Salesperson: Where Prestige Meets Profit

When stepping into a dealership for BMW, Porsche, or Tesla, clients don't just shop for cars—they buy into a lifestyle. At the centre of this transaction stands the luxury car salesperson, a role built on exceptional knowledge of high-end automotive technology, persuasive communication, and an uncanny sense of what motivates affluent buyers.

Representing Premium Brands

This isn't about pitching a car, it's about embodying the brand. Whether it's the futuristic tech sophistication of a Tesla, the heritage performance of a Porsche 911, or the quiet luxury of a BMW 7 Series, deeper brand alignment sets successful professionals apart. Clients expect more than product specs; they demand authentic storytelling and tailored experiences that match each vehicle’s prestige.

Concierge-Level Sales Approach

Service doesn’t end when the contract is signed. Many clients expect white-glove treatment: private unveilings, test drives delivered to their home, and post-sale customisation follow-ups. Building long-term relationships often means staying accessible beyond business hours and curating ownership experiences that feel one-of-a-kind.

Commission Drives Compensation

This role leans heavily on performance-based pay. In the UK, base salaries range from £30,000 to £45,000, but the real earning power lies in bonuses and commissions, which commonly add another £15,000 to £50,000 yearly. Sales of higher-margin models and meeting brand-specific benchmarks can elevate earnings above £100k—a figure not uncommon among seasoned staff in busy showrooms.

Skills That Close the Deal

Fluency in luxury vehicle specifications—not just what's new, but how it compares against competitors in performance and features.
High EQ and soft sales techniques that fit discreet, affluent clientele who value subtle respect over hard pitches.
Networking and clienteling—repeat business comes via WhatsApp, referrals, and personal trust, not cold leads.
Impeccable grooming and communication that reflect the aspirational nature of the brands represented.

Want to talk shoptalk with a CEO? You’ll need more than vehicle knowledge. You’ll need confidence, presence, and the agility to pivot conversations seamlessly from carbon fibre benefits to finance plans within minutes.

7. Electric Vehicle (EV) Technician

Electric Vehicle Technicians already sit at the frontlines of automotive evolution. With nations phasing out petrol and diesel cars, this specialist role has surged from niche to necessity. EV techs handle systems far beyond the scope of traditional mechanics, lithium-ion battery arrays, regenerative braking systems, high-voltage wiring, and sophisticated onboard diagnostics that rival aerospace.

RELATED: EV Batter Life, Longevity and Performance

Specialist Skills Set This Role Apart

This role demands more than a socket wrench and a torque chart. Employers require technicians certified to work with high-voltage systems — missteps here don't result in a check engine light, but in real danger. Understanding electric motor architecture, battery management systems (BMS), thermal regulation, and digital calibration protocols is non-negotiable.

High-voltage certification is mandatory for nearly all UK employers hiring in this space.
Software fluency — particularly with diagnostics and firmware update tools — increasingly defines core competence.
Platform versatility across leading EV brands improves employability and pay grades.

Who’s Hiring? The EV Giants

There's no need to guess where the big paychecks come from. Tesla regularly recruits technicians to maintain its Model series through service centres across the UK. Nissan needs EV specialists for the Leaf and upcoming EV launches. BMW, with its i Series, and Mercedes-Benz with EQ models, both rely on a new generation of auto professionals trained to service EV-exclusive platforms.

What Does It Pay?

In the UK, EV Technicians with baseline experience earn between £35,000 and £45,000 annually. Those with advanced certifications, multi-brand experience, and years on the ground can command figures reaching £55,000. Salaries scale further with manufacturer-sponsored training and roles at branded service hubs.

Thinking Long-Term? This Path Is Built to Last

More than 20% of new car registrations in the UK in 2023 were fully electric, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). EVs aren't a passing trend — they're reshaping the entire automotive lifecycle. Techs who specialise now won’t need to reinvest in new training curves for decades. This career moves where the market goes: forward, fast, and electric.

Would your current skill set pass the high-voltage test? Or is it time to upskill and rewrite your future in kilowatts?

Lucrative Careers in Cars

From elite high-performance engine builders to software engineers shaping autonomous systems, both hands-on specialists and strategic managers find ample opportunity for financial and professional growth.

Choosing a career path here requires more than paycheck-chasing. Align qualifications, interests, and long-term aspirations with industry demands to build a future that’s both satisfying and sustainable.

Automotive Jobs FAQS

1. What are the highest-paying automotive jobs in the UK?

Some of the top-paying roles include:

Automotive Software Engineer: £50,000–£85,000+
Auto Sales Manager: £45,000–£100,000+ (including commissions)
Luxury Car Salesperson: £45,000–£95,000+
Automotive Engineer: £45,000–£70,000
Electric Vehicle (EV) Technician: £35,000–£55,000

RELATED: Highest Paid Jobs Without a Degree

2. What qualifications are needed for an Automotive Engineer?

Typically, a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering is required. Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and postgraduate degrees can enhance career prospects.

3. How much can an Uber or PCO driver earn in London?

Full-time Uber or PCO drivers in London can earn between £35,000 and £62,400 annually, depending on factors like hours worked and vehicle type.