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Automotive Design Engineering Jobs in California

Phenix Truck & Van

Be Seen First

Electrical CAD Technician - Automotive Systems

Pomona, CA · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Design & Engineering | Company: Phenix Truck & Van Phenix Truck & Van is seeking a skilled and motivated Electrical CAD Technician - Automotive Systems to join our Design & Engineering team. This ...

Rivian

Staff Mechanical Design Engineer, ECU

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$149K - $187K/yr

... engineering methodologies. * Develop and document component mechanical functional requirements ... At least 10+ years industry experience within automotive or other industries, experience in ...

Rivian

Staff Mechanical Design Engineer, ECU

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$149K - $187K/yr

... engineering methodologies. * Develop and document component mechanical functional requirements ... At least 10+ years industry experience within automotive or other industries, experience in ...

Sanmina

Mechanical Design Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$90K - $122K/yr

... and Design for Manufacturability (DFM). Its comprehensive, high-tolerance capabilities range from ... engineering. Fremont supports the critical infrastructure driving the semiconductor, automotive ...

Rivian

Staff Mechanical Design Engineer, ECU

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$149K - $187K/yr

... engineering methodologies. * Develop and document component mechanical functional requirements ... At least 10+ years industry experience within automotive or other industries, experience in ...

SiTime

Sr. Account Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Demonstrated success managing long automotive design cycles and influencing strategic technology decisions across engineering, sourcing, quality, operations, and executive leadership teams.

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All JobsAutomotive Design Engineering JobsAutomotive Design Engineering Jobs in California

Automotive Design Engineering information

See California salary details

$40K

$87K

$156.4K

How much do automotive design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design engineering in California is $86,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Automotive Design Engineering jobs in California?

For Automotive Design Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Design Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Design Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Automotive Design Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Automotive Design Engineering job openings:

Automotive Design Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Design Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,995 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Genesis Senior Interior Designer

Hyundai Motor Company

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Genesis Senior Interior Designer
Deep understanding of automotive interior production design for manufacturing, with an equally strong understanding of automotive design principles, trends, and industry standards. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop innovative and aesthetically pleasing interior designs that align with the company's brand image and customer expectations.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Create innovative and compelling luxury interior design proposals for concept cars and production car programs
  • Strong ability to visually communicate design proposals in the form of sketches, rendering and 3D digital modeling.
  • Independently be able to quickly generate high quality 3D sketch models using Alias/SubD, Maya or Blender.
  • Demonstrate the ability to lead design and follow the development of the entire automotive interior from start to finish, including traveling to Korea.
  • Research and analyze trends in automotive interior design as well as emerging technologies, product, fashion, architecture, and have a strong interest in luxury.
  • Be able to attend auto shows and other design related events.
  • Be able to work self-sufficiently, while mentoring junior designers.
  • Oversee the development models with Clay and CAS sculptors.
  • Work closely with Management, Engineering, Marketing, and Design Team to discuss design criteria. Incorporate the criteria to meet engineering, and manufacturing requirements.
  • Produce presentation ready materials to support design reviews.
  • Travel up to 20% of the time domestically and internationally.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
  • BS, BFA, MS or MFA in product/transportation design with a focus on interiors.
  • Minimum 6+ years of professional design experience at an Automotive Design studio
  • Strong ability to utilize various types of 2D and 3D visualization software (Photoshop, VRED, etc.) and strong digital modeling skills (preferably, Alias, SubD, Maya or Blender)
  • Valid Driver's License and satisfactory driving record.
  • Candidates applying for positions with Genesis must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment will be required at the time of hire.
  • HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.

WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU
  • Zero dollar employee premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for you and your family
  • 100% employer-paid disability and life insurance
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, sick and abundant holidays
  • A global environment that fosters diversity
  • Competitive salaries
  • Retirement savings and planning benefits
  • Flexible work hours, and hybrid work schedule options
  • Access to health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts

Compensation Range : $115K ~ $165K

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