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Automotive Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reliance One

Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required * 4+ years of automotive design and development experience * Extensive experience designing engine systems is required * Strong CAD experience and ...

General Motors

Lead/Studio Design Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

The Lead/Studio Design Engineer is responsible for integrating and balancing vehicle models with ... The optimal candidate has a passion for the automotive industry and can work objectively to balance ...

General Motors

Lead/Studio Design Engineer

Warren, MI

$96K - $126K/yr

The Lead/Studio Design Engineer is responsible for integrating and balancing vehicle models with ... The optimal candidate has a passion for the automotive industry and can work objectively to balance ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Yoder, IN

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Goshen, IN · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Goshen, IN

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Yoder, IN

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Yoder, IN · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Goshen, IN

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

EDAG INC.

Design Engineer

Troy, MI

We are experts in complete vehicle development and the optimization of production facilities for the automotive industry. As a Designing Engineer, you will be responsible for the CAD design and ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Goshen, IN · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Goshen, IN · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Goshen, IN

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading program level designs and prototype ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

Chipton Ross

Senior CAD Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$71.05/hr

Aerospace or automotive design experience. * Experience designing and managing large CAD assemblies ... Bachelor's degree in engineering OR 10 years of relevant experience in lieu of degree. WORK HOURS ...

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Automotive Design Engineer information

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$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do automotive design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design engineer in the United States is $88,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automotive design engineer do?

An Automotive Design Engineer is responsible for developing and improving vehicle designs, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and safety. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create blueprints and collaborate with engineers to refine concepts. Their work includes designing body structures, interiors, and aerodynamics while ensuring compliance with industry standards. They also test prototypes and analyze performance to enhance efficiency and durability.

What does a typical day look like for an automotive design engineer?

As an Automotive Design Engineer, your days often involve collaborating with other engineers and designers to create and refine vehicle components using CAD tools, participating in design reviews, and ensuring that your solutions meet safety and regulatory standards. You might analyze prototypes, troubleshoot design challenges, and incorporate feedback from cross-functional partners such as manufacturing or testing teams. It's common to split time between computer-based design work and hands-on activities like inspecting prototypes or components. This role offers a dynamic mix of creative problem-solving, technical analysis, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive design engineer?

To thrive as an Automotive Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, proficiency in CAD software, and a strong understanding of automotive systems and materials. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like CATIA, SolidWorks, and relevant certifications such as FE or PE are highly valued. Creativity, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help set candidates apart in this field. These skills and qualities enable engineers to develop innovative vehicle designs that meet safety, performance, and manufacturing requirements within cross-functional teams.

How much do automotive design engineers make in the US?

Automotive design engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $75,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or advanced degrees can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.
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Automotive Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Design Engineer

Reliance One

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Design Engineer – Engine Systems

Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States

$50–55/hour

Contract Opportunity

  • Full-time contract opportunity
  • Benefits begin on day one, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • On-site position in Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • Must have extensive engine design experience (powertrain or driveline experience alone will not be considered)


Reliance One, Inc. is seeking an experienced Design Engineer with a strong background in internal combustion engine design and development to support an industry-leading automotive manufacturer. This role is ideal for an engineer with hands-on engine experience who enjoys collaborating with cross-functional teams, managing supplier activities, and driving innovative engine design solutions from concept through production.


Responsibilities:

  • Develop 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, technical reports, and engineering documentation
  • Participate in design reviews and communicate key engineering metrics
  • Develop design countermeasures to achieve cost, weight, durability, and performance targets
  • Collaborate with engine design, vehicle engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, and global engineering teams
  • Manage North American suppliers to ensure on-time delivery of quality components
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance engineering processes and design quality
  • Benchmark competitive products and designs to improve performance and customer satisfaction
  • Support prototype development and production launch activities
  • Travel domestically and internationally as needed (approximately 10%)
  • Work overtime as required (approximately 20%)


Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required
  • 4+ years of automotive design and development experience
  • Extensive experience designing engine systems is required
  • Strong CAD experience and solid understanding of GD&T
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills
  • Knowledge of conventional, hybrid, and electrified powertrains
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
  • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally


If you're an experienced Design Engineer with a passion for engine development and want to work on cutting-edge automotive programs, we'd love to hear from you.


Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Statement

Reliance One, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.


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