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Automotive Design Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Travel 10% * Overtime 20% What you bring • Bachelor of Science Degree (or above) in Mechanical Engineering • 4+ years in automotive design/development • Demonstrable CAD skills and a strong ...

... in engineering and product design, preferably within an industrial or automotive environment. * Experience with CAD tools such as CATIA V5, Siemens NX or SolidWorks; familiarity with CAE tools ...

... Design Engineering organizations in the original design / existing design improvements / performance validation / production launch activities of xEV inverters for various automotive powertrain ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · Hybrid

$102K - $135K/yr

... Design Engineering organizations in the original design / existing design improvements / performance validation / production launch activities of xEV inverters for various automotive powertrain ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$108K - $131K/yr

... Design Engineering organizations in the original design / existing design improvements / performance validation / production launch activities of xEV inverters for various automotive powertrain ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

... Design Engineering organizations in the original design / existing design improvements / performance validation / production launch activities of xEV inverters for various automotive powertrain ...

... Engineering or related technical field or equivalent experience and education. * Automotive related ... Possess good skills with a CAD program for 3D model and 2D drawing creation. * Capability to travel ...

... Engineering or related technical field or equivalent experience and education. * Automotive related ... Possess good skills with a CAD program for 3D model and 2D drawing creation. * Capability to travel ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automotive Design Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$35.3K

$76.8K

$138.1K

How much do automotive design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design engineering in Michigan is $76,831.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,300.00 and $85,900.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Design Engineering jobs in Michigan? For Automotive Design Engineering jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Design Engineering job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,831 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

CW Design Engineer (99W207)

eShocan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

What you'll be doing
  • 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, TMC 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 Toyota 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).
  • Travel 10%
  • Overtime 20%

What you bring
• 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.
What you may bring
• 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.