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Automotive Design Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Oshkosh, WI ยท On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer Oshkosh, WI - Full Time Productive Resources (www.productiveresources ... Mechanical knowledge of automotive or heavy-vehicle equipment and related systems. * Experience ...

New

... D and other resources. * Collaborate with Project Engineers, Customers and Tooling vendors to ... pharmaceutical, industrial, automotive, and electronics industries. Come build an exciting ...

... D and other resources. * Collaborate with Project Engineers, Customers and Tooling vendors to ... pharmaceutical, industrial, automotive, and electronics industries. Come build an exciting ...

Perform engineering analysis and design or re-design, and development of components into existing ... Mechanical knowledge of automotive or heavy-vehicle equipment and related systems. * Experience ...

New

Engineer Design

Wauwatosa, WI ยท On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Engineer Design Job Function: Engineering Location: PDC Workplace Category:Onsite Company: Harley ... Experience in transportation, automotive, powersports, or similar regulated environments.

Engineer Design Job Function: Engineering Location: PDC Workplace Category:Onsite Company: Harley ... Experience in transportation, automotive, powersports, or similar regulated environments.

Engineer Design

Wauwatosa, WI ยท On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Engineer Design Job Function: Engineering Location: PDC Workplace Category:Onsite Company: Harley ... Experience in transportation, automotive, powersports, or similar regulated environments.

Designer Engineer I

Oshkosh, WI ยท Hybrid

$36 - $39/hr

Design Engineer Location: Oshkosh, WI (Hybrid or Remote Available) Job Type: Contract (Extension ... Strong mechanical design background. * Experience supporting heavy-duty vehicle or automotive ...

New

... level Design Engineer) - Also, willing to accepts 4-8 years of experience. Role Descriptions: MUST HAVE: Creo Tool Knowledge (Surfacing| GDT| DFX| DFA| Automotive design experience) Plastic ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automotive Design Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$40.9K

$89K

$160K

How much do automotive design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design engineer in Wisconsin is $88,974.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $99,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Automotive Design Engineer position, and why are they important?

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.

What does an automotive design engineer do?

An automotive design engineer develops and refines vehicle concepts, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and safety. They use CAD software to create detailed models, collaborate with manufacturing teams, and ensure designs meet industry standards and customer needs throughout the development process.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior automotive design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and a strong understanding of vehicle systems can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level engineers in the automotive industry often work in leadership roles or specialized fields such as electric vehicle design or autonomous systems. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior automotive design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand markets or with bonuses and stock options. Such compensation typically reflects seniority, specialized expertise, and working for major automotive manufacturers or suppliers.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automotive design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and leadership roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with working in large companies, specialized expertise, or managerial positions within the automotive industry.
What job categories do people searching Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Design Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,974 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
Design Engineer - Base Powertrain

Design Engineer - Base Powertrain

Harley-Davidson

Wauwatosa, WI โ€ข On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Auto req ID: 54142
Title: Design Engineer - Base Powertrain
Job Function: Engineering
Location: PDC
Workplace Category:Onsite
Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Full or Part-Time: Full Time
Shift: SHIFT1

At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It's our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley-Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join us?
The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra - You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a Design Engineer - Base Powertrain.
Job Summary
This Design Engineer role will support the design, development, validation, and launch of base powertrain components and systems. This entry-level role works within an experienced engineering team to help translate requirements into robust designs, evaluate technical options, support analysis and testing, and communicate results clearly to cross-functional partners. The role is intended for an early-career engineer who is building foundational capability in product development, design tools, problem solving, and production release processes.
Job Responsibilities
  • Support design and delivery of powertrain components and systems from concept through production launch under the guidance of experienced engineers. Examples of supported components include crankshafts, casings, covers, cylinder heads, balancers, gears, and bearings.
  • Develop and maintain fundamental knowledge of engineering calculations, CAD tools, drawings, materials, manufacturing processes, and validation methods.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional partners to define requirements, evaluate design alternatives, and support decisions that balance performance, quality, cost, weight, and timing.
  • Assist with engineering analysis, tolerance reviews, component packaging, design reviews, and documentation needed to demonstrate design robustness.
  • Support creation and execution of Design Failure Modes and Effects Analyses (DFMEAs), Design Verification Plans and Reports (DVP&Rs), and related engineering deliverables.
  • Review test data, summarize findings, and help drive closure of issues identified through development, validation, supplier, or production activities.
  • Communicate project status, risks, open issues, and recommended next steps clearly to team members, cross-functional partners, and leadership.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes, engineering tools, documentation practices, and team standards.

Education Requirements
Bachelor's Degree Required
Education Specifications
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering or a related technical field required.
  • Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical degree preferred.

Experience Requirements
  • Typically requires a minimum of 3 years of related experience.
  • Fundamental understanding of mechanical systems, powertrain operation, product design, engineering drawings, and basic analytical methods.
  • Basic familiarity with CAD tools and product data management systems; experience with Creo, Windchill, or similar tools preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn quickly, solve problems using data and sound engineering judgment, and follow structured development or test plans.
  • Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional engineering environment.
  • Interest in motorcycle, automotive, powersports, or mobility product development preferred.

The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.
We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
Direct Reports: No
Travel Required: 0 - 10%
Pay Range: $74,900 - 112,200

Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer
Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)