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Automotive Design Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Design Release Engineer

Troy, MI ยท On-site

$135K/yr

The ideal candidates should have a background in design engineering, ideally in exteriors and accessories within automotive. Requirements of the Design Release Engineer * BSME or similar degree * 8+ ...

Engineering Position Overview: Seeking a talented and self-motivated automotive EE HW Engineer for the Design Engineering group. The ideal candidate will have experience in designing, developing and ...

Engineering Position Overview: Seeking a talented and self-motivated automotive EE HW Engineer for the Design Engineering group. The ideal candidate will have experience in designing, developing and ...

Stay current on global automotive design concepts, consumer preferences, and emerging design trends ... Expleo is a trusted partner for end-to-end, integrated engineering, production support, MRO, and ...

Design Release Engineer

Dearborn, MI

$37 - $42.25/hr

Proficiency in design release processes and tools used in automotive engineering environments. * Experience with Teamcenter and WERS for data management, configuration control, and design release ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 6, 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?

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:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Design Engineering jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Design Engineering jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Design Engineering job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,831 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Technical Program Manager (TPM) - EE/SW Integration & Release - On-Site

IAV Automotive Engineering Inc

Novi, MI โ€ข On-site

$121K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

IAV is offering exciting opportunities to join dynamic teams with exposure to top tier projects!

IAV Group is an engineering and technical consultancy servicing the global automotive industry with approximately 7,000 employees worldwide and more than 40 years of experience. As a recognized leader in the specification, design, development, validation and production launch of advanced vehicle and powertrain systems, IAV Automotive Engineering deploys a leading team of technical experts, engineering tools and program processes from its North American Headquarters in Novi, Michigan.

IAV is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced Technical Program Manager (TPM) with deep expertise in Electrical/Electronic (EE) systems integration and embedded software integration for modern vehicle platforms. This role blends strong technical depth with program leadership, ensuring seamless integration of ECUs, vehicle networks, and software stacks while meeting functional, safety, and quality requirements.

The TPM will drive vehicle-level system integration, coordinate embedded software releases, and ensure readiness across prototype, validation, and production milestones.

The ideal candidate will play a key role in delivering innovative, high-quality solutions from concept through production while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and supplier teams in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.

Why Join Us:

At IAV, you'll be part of a global leader in automotive engineering. We offer a dynamic work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and diversity. Join us in driving the future of mobility.

Essential Responsibilities & Activities:

Program & Integration Leadership

  • Lead EE/SW integration across prototype, pre-production, and production builds
  • Align integration and testing deliverables with key milestones (e.g., VFF, PVS, vehicle launch gates)
  • Ensure all deliverables are completed, reviewed, and approved at each development milestone
  • Communicate integration readiness metrics to stakeholders and leadership

EE/SW Integration & Release Management

  • Manage integration of ECUs, networks, and embedded software stacks
  • Review ECU software releases for feature completeness and backward compatibility
  • Oversee bootloader, flashing, and software update processes (OTA/UDS)
  • Coordinate change management and version control (e.g., Git, SVN, PTC tools)

Vehicle Network & Diagnostics

  • Lead network bring-up and issue resolution across CAN, LIN, FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet
  • Ensure alignment of ICDs and network description files (DBC, LDF, FIBEX, ARXML)
  • Oversee diagnostics validation, DTC testing, and UDS implementation
  • Monitor network load, power consumption, timing, sleep/wake behavior

Testing & Validation

  • Coordinate integration testing across: SIL (Software-in-the-Loop), HIL (Hardware-in-the-Loop), Lab cars, mules, and full vehicle systems
  • Drive test automation and regression testing using: dSPACE, Vector CANoe/CANalyzer, ETAS LABCAR, NI VeriStand
  • Ensure traceability of test results to system and software requirements

Issue & Risk Management

  • Own issue tracking tools (JIRA, ALM, etc.) and drive root cause resolution
  • Lead FMEA/DFMEA activities for integration-related risks
  • Prepare and present gate review documentation including risk assessments and maturity status

Cross-functional Collaboration

  • Partner with Software engineers, Systems engineers, Calibration teams, Validation teams, Suppliers
  • Coordinate dependencies across ~500 vehicle functions and zonal ECUs
  • Support testing across various platforms (HILs, SILs, lab cars, vehicles)

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 7-10 years of OEM or Tier 1 automotive industry experience.
  • Strong knowledge of vehicle EE architecture and ECU software stacks
  • Expertise in automotive communication protocols: CAN, LIN, FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet, A2B, LVDS
  • Proficiency in diagnostics (UDS, ISO 14229) and diagnostic tools
  • Experience with MATLAB/Simulink for plant and control model development
  • Hands-on experience with HIL systems (dSPACE ControlDesk, AutomationDesk)\
  • Familiar with tools and systems: Vehicle network tools - Vector CANoe / CANalyzer; Test platforms: ย ETAS LABCAR, NI VeriStand; Version control and lifecycle tools: Git, SVN, PTC, ALM, JIRA.
  • Knowledge of ISO 26262 (ASIL compliance)
  • Understanding of: Embedded software development lifecycle, Automotive design and development processes, Requirements engineering and traceability
  • Ability to manage tasks independently while contributing to a high-performing team environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively across cross-functional and global teams.
  • Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
  • Strong proficiency with verbal and written communication skills, analytical problem solving, and creativity.
  • German language proficiency is a Plus
  • Willingness to travel, as needed

Benefits

  • 401K with company matching
  • PTO (Paid Time Off) starts at 20days/year with 1 day accumulation per year
  • Health/Dental/Vision insurance starts on date of hire
  • Health saving account
  • Flexible spending account
  • Life insurance
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability (covered 100% premium)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Training and Development
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee Discount
  • Referral program