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Automotive Design Engineering 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 ...

Vast

Mechanical Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$86K - $122K/yr

Bachelor's degree in engineering with relevant CAD/Design experience or equivalent. Preferred Skills & Experience: * Aerospace or automotive design experience. * Self-motivated with strong multi ...

Vast

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$137K - $195K/yr

Bachelor's degree in engineering with 5+ years of relevant CAD/Design experience or equivalent ... Aerospace or automotive design experience. * Self-motivated with strong multi-tasking ...

General Motors

Lead/Studio Design Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Strong understanding of engineering theory and automotive design principles * Excellent oral and written communication skills * Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively * Ability ...

New

General Motors

Lead/Studio Design Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Strong understanding of engineering theory and automotive design principles * Excellent oral and written communication skills * Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively * Ability ...

New

EDAG INC.

Design Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience. * 2+ Years of automotive design and engineering experience * Experience in automotive Body in White (e.g. Roof, Front ...

Lippert

Sr. Design Engineer

Lansing, MI · On-site

Overview Join the Lippert Engineering Team! Lippert is a leading, global manufacturer and supplier ... Conceptual and detailed designs of automotive towing components and assemblies * Ability to perform ...

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All JobsAutomotive Design Engineering Jobs

Automotive Design Engineering information

See salary details

$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do automotive design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design engineering 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, CAD proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with design software such as CATIA, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD, and knowledge of industry standards like ISO/TS 16949 are typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and strong teamwork skills help you innovate and efficiently address design challenges. These abilities ensure the development of safe, functional, and marketable vehicles in a highly competitive industry.

What is the difference between Automotive Design Engineering vs Automotive Manufacturing Engineering?

AspectAutomotive Design EngineeringAutomotive Manufacturing Engineering
Primary FocusDesign and development of vehicle components and aestheticsProduction processes, assembly, and manufacturing efficiency
Required SkillsCAD, design principles, vehicle dynamicsManufacturing processes, quality control, automation
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, R&D labsFactories, production lines
Common CertificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certificationsManufacturing certifications, Six Sigma

Automotive Design Engineering focuses on creating vehicle designs and prototypes, while Automotive Manufacturing Engineering emphasizes the production and assembly processes. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work environments, with design engineers working in creative settings and manufacturing engineers in production facilities.

What is automotive design engineering?

Automotive design engineering is a specialized field that focuses on the development and design of vehicles, including their appearance, functionality, and performance. Professionals in this role combine creativity with technical knowledge to create innovative, safe, and efficient vehicles. They use advanced software and engineering principles to design components, systems, and the overall structure of cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Automotive design engineers often work closely with other specialists, such as mechanical, electrical, and materials engineers, to bring a concept vehicle from idea to production.

What are some typical challenges faced by Automotive Design Engineers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Automotive Design Engineers often work closely with teams from manufacturing, electronics, and quality assurance. A common challenge is ensuring that design concepts are feasible within manufacturing constraints and cost targets, requiring frequent adjustments and clear communication. Balancing innovative design ideas with regulatory standards and safety requirements can also present difficulties. Effective collaboration and adaptability are essential for aligning different perspectives and achieving successful product development.
More about Automotive Design Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Design Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Design Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Automotive Design Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Design Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Design Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Design Engineering jobs are:
Automotive Design Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Design Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 66% In-person, 17% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Automotive Design/Development Engineer

Automotive Design/Development Engineer

AVA Consulting

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

AVA Consulting is seeking an Automotive Design/Development Engineer

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

U.S. Citizens and those authorized to work in the U.S. are encouraged to apply. We are unable to sponsor at this time.

Company Background: Our client, a major employer in the area, is looking for a Design Engineer to be part of its team in its North American operations.

Job Description:

  • Using your knowledge in design process and standards, outputting typical design team deliverables such as 3D models, 2D drawings, technical reports, and instruction sheets.
  • Attending routine Design Reviews and reporting the key metrics of your design.
  • Developing countermeasures to achieve design targets such as cost, mass and fatigue strength based on evaluation and quotation results.
  • Building relationships with key stakeholders (such as drivetrain and vehicle design, engine design, purchasing and assembly plants)
  • Project managing NA suppliers to ensure on-time delivery of quality parts in line with the requirements of each client s milestone.
  • Process improvements, advancing PDE s design process capability to improve quality and on-time delivery of design deliverables.
  • Benchmarking similar designs to ensure our competitiveness (i.e. cost and customer expectations).
  • Local Travel 10%
  • Overtime 20%

Requirements:

Required Skills:

  • Bachelor of Science Degree (or above) in Mechanical Engineering
  • 4+ years in automotive design/development
  • Demonstrable CAD skills and a strong understanding of GD&T
  • Proficiency with Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Excellent problem solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong knowledge of conventional, hybrid and electrified powertrains.
  • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally.
  • Team-oriented thinking and a can-do attitude.
  • This position requires driving. A motor vehicle record that s acceptable by company standards is required for this position.

Preferred Skills:

  • Seeking candidates with extensive Engine experience
  • Master of Science Degree in engineering.
  • Experience in detail design of ICE peripheral services such as lubrication system, belt system and timing chain cover, fuel system, cooling system, intake and exhaust systems.
  • A working knowledge of aluminum and iron castings, thermoplastics, stampings, and forgings.
  • Experience with CREO, WBDM, and typical powertrain CAE design software (FEA, CFD, GT Power or similar).
  • Hands-on experience with engine/powertrain assembly
  • Expertise in GD&T and typical ICE and transmission manufacturing methods
  • A working knowledge of DRBFM.
  • A working knowledge of Quality Management and Supply Chain Management principles
  • Experience working in a multi-cultural environment.
  • Experience with production engineering.

NOTE: Interested Candidates can apply by sending their Updated Resume and Contact Details.

Ron Tolson

AVA Consulting

Fax:

Web:

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About AVA Consulting

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AVA is a Premier provider of Top Talent resources for our Client’s Open Job Positions. AVA has consistently been recognized as a “GO TO” Company by our Clients for their resource needs. As a Staffing Services company, we provide Contract (Temporary), Contract to Hire (Temporary to Permanent), Permanent (Direct Placement) and Statement of Work (SOW) resources to Fortune 1000 clients nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

2004

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