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3D Automotive Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HARMAN International

3D Motion Designer-Unity

Novi, MI · On-site

Your Team You'll join HARMAN Automotive Design, a global, award-winning design studio bringing ... Mentor designers and contribute to capability building in real-time motion, Unity workflows, and ...

SALTWORKS FAB LLC

3D Solid Modeling Car Parts

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$40 - $55/hr

Vision insurance 3D Solid Modeler / CAD Engineer (Automotive Coachbuilding) Company: SaltWorks MFG ... Insure designs based on fit, function, and performance What We're Looking For * Strong experience ...

Prolim Global

Automotive Styling Designer

Nappanee, IN · On-site

Automotive Styling Designer (CAS & Class A Surfacing) Location: Nappanee, Indiana, USA Experience ... Create high-quality automotive sketches (2D/3D) to explore form, proportion, and design themes

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3D Automotive Designer information

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$50

How much do 3d automotive designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d automotive designer in the United States is $28.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3D automotive designer?

A 3D Automotive Designer is a professional who uses specialized software to create detailed digital models of vehicles. They work closely with engineers and other designers to develop the aesthetics, ergonomics, and functionality of cars, trucks, and other automobiles. Their work is crucial in the conceptualization and visualization phases, allowing manufacturers to review and refine designs before physical prototypes are built. This role requires both artistic creativity and technical proficiency in 3D modeling tools.

How does a 3D automotive designer typically collaborate with engineers and other team members during a vehicle development project?

3D Automotive Designers work closely with engineers, modelers, and marketing teams throughout the vehicle development process. Designers create detailed digital models and renderings, which are then reviewed and refined in collaboration with engineers to ensure feasibility and compliance with technical constraints. Regular meetings and design reviews are common, where feedback is exchanged and adjustments are made to align the design with performance, manufacturing, and brand requirements. This collaborative environment helps ensure that the final vehicle design is both aesthetically appealing and technically sound.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D automotive designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3D Automotive Designer, you need proficiency in industrial design, 3D modeling, and a solid understanding of automotive engineering principles, often supported by a degree in industrial or transportation design. Mastery of CAD software such as Autodesk Alias, CATIA, or SolidWorks, along with familiarity with rendering tools like KeyShot or VRED, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help designers collaborate effectively and bring innovative concepts to life. These skills ensure the creation of visually compelling, functional, and manufacturable automotive designs that meet both aesthetic and engineering standards.

What is the difference between 3D Automotive Designer vs Automotive CAD Modeler?

Aspect3D Automotive DesignerAutomotive CAD Modeler
Primary FocusConceptual design, aesthetics, and overall vehicle appearanceCreating precise 3D models based on specifications and engineering requirements
Skills & ToolsDesign software (e.g., Alias, Rhino), creativity, visualizationCAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks), technical accuracy
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, automotive companies, creative teamsEngineering departments, manufacturing, product development
CredentialsDesign degree or portfolio, CAD knowledge beneficialEngineering or technical degree, CAD certifications

While both roles involve 3D modeling in the automotive industry, a 3D Automotive Designer focuses on the vehicle's aesthetic and conceptual aspects, whereas an Automotive CAD Modeler emphasizes precise engineering models based on technical specifications. Understanding these differences helps professionals and employers align skills with job requirements.

What are popular job titles related to 3D Automotive Designer jobs?

For 3D Automotive Designer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various 3D Automotive Designer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,297 per year, or $29 per hour.

Automotive Lighting Designer

Irvine, CA • On-site

Global Connect Technologies
See more jobs at Global Connect Technologiesexternal

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Entry-Level Automotive Lighting Designer

Location: Irvine, CA

Client: Rivian

Experience: 0–2 years | 6+ months of relevant experience will be considered

Job Description

We are looking for an Entry-Level Automotive Lighting Designer to support automotive lighting and lamp design activities for our client Rivian in Irvine, CA. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with a background in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Design, or Product Design who have hands-on experience with CATIA and an interest in automotive lighting systems.

The ideal candidate will have exposure to automotive components, lighting/lamp design, 3D modeling, and engineering drawings.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the design and development of automotive lighting and lamp components using CATIA.
  • Create and modify 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings for automotive lighting components.
  • Assist with the design of headlamps, tail lamps, signal lamps, and other exterior/interior lighting components.
  • Work with senior engineers and designers to develop components based on engineering requirements and specifications.
  • Review designs for fit, form, function, manufacturability, and packaging requirements.
  • Support design changes, revisions, and documentation throughout the product development lifecycle.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and supplier engineering teams.
  • Assist with design reviews, issue resolution, and continuous improvement activities.
  • Follow automotive engineering standards, design guidelines, and company processes.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Product Design, or a related field.
  • 0–2 years of experience in automotive design, mechanical design, or lighting/lamp design.
  • 6+ months of relevant experience will also be considered.
  • Hands-on experience with CATIA.
  • Basic understanding of mechanical design and engineering principles.
  • Exposure to automotive lighting, lamps, headlamps, tail lamps, or related components is preferred.
  • Ability to understand engineering drawings, 3D models, and basic GD&T concepts.
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative engineering environment.

Preferred Skills

  • Automotive OEM or Tier-1 supplier experience.
  • Experience with CATIA V5/V6.
  • Knowledge of automotive exterior/interior components.
  • Understanding of plastic components, injection molding, and basic DFM/DFA concepts.
  • Experience with automotive packaging and component integration.
  • Familiarity with engineering change processes and product development lifecycle.


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