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Automotive Design Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$112K - $159K/yr

Aerospace or automotive design experience. * Self-motivated with strong multi-tasking ... Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package. Full-time employees also ...

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Automotive Design Salary information

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How much do automotive design salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design salary in the United States is $73,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the average salary for an automotive designer?

The average salary for an automotive designer varies depending on experience, location, and employer. In the United States, entry-level automotive designers can expect to earn around $55,000 to $70,000 per year, while experienced designers may earn upwards of $100,000 annually. Salaries may be higher in regions with a strong automotive industry presence or for those with specialized skills and advanced degrees. Additionally, large automotive manufacturers often offer more competitive compensation packages. Overall, the field offers competitive pay and opportunities for growth.

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

AspectAutomotive Design SalaryAutomotive Engineering Salary
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Automotive Design, Industrial Design, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, CAD labs, creative officesResearch labs, manufacturing plants, testing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, design firmsAutomotive manufacturers, engineering consultancies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Automotive Design and Automotive Engineering salaries are related but differ in focus. Automotive designers primarily work on the aesthetics and user experience of vehicles, requiring creative and design skills. Automotive engineers focus on the technical and functional aspects, emphasizing engineering principles. Both roles are vital in the automotive industry, but their salary differences reflect their distinct responsibilities and skill sets.

How hard is it to get a job in automotive design?

Securing a job in automotive design can be competitive due to high industry standards and specialized skills required, such as proficiency in CAD software and a strong portfolio. Candidates typically need a relevant degree in industrial design, automotive engineering, or a related field, along with experience or internships to improve their chances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive designer?

To thrive as an Automotive Designer, you need a strong background in industrial or transportation design, proficiency in 3D modeling, and often a relevant degree such as a Bachelor’s in Industrial Design or Automotive Engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (like Autodesk Alias, CATIA, or SolidWorks), sketching tools, and digital rendering systems is crucial. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineering and marketing teams set outstanding designers apart. These skills are essential to create innovative, functional, and marketable vehicle designs that align with safety, performance, and brand standards.

What are the common career progression opportunities for professionals in automotive design?

In automotive design, professionals often start as junior or associate designers, working under the guidance of experienced team members. With experience, they can advance to roles such as senior designer, lead designer, or design manager, where they oversee projects or teams. Some may specialize further in areas like exterior, interior, or concept design, and others may move into related roles in product strategy or design research. Career progression is typically supported by building a strong portfolio, staying current with industry trends, and developing collaborative skills to work effectively with engineering and marketing teams.
More about Automotive Design Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Design Salary jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Design Salary job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Automotive Design Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Design Salary jobs are:
Automotive Design Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Design Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,374 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Hyundai Design Center - Interior Design Manager

Hyundai Motor Company

Irvine, CA • On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Hyundai Design Center - Interior Design Manager
Hyunday Design Center is currently looking for an Interior Design Manager at our Irvine, CA facility who will:
  • Manage the development of entire automotive Interior design programs from early concept sketch through to production.
  • Be responsible for project timing and budget of the Interior Design Department.
  • Work closely with engineering and suppliers, and manage the design process throughout the development to SOP.
  • Lead a team of Interior Designers.
  • Respectfully follow the HQ's overall design direction, while creating and proposing future interior directions.
  • Create visual presentations for each project for development groups, media events and executive management.

WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Display strong organizational, inter-personal, project management and presentational skills.
  • Operate the entire interior design team in the absence of the Head of Department.
  • Be able to dive into any part of the design process at any given time to help the team produce successful results.
  • Apply knowledge of current automotive design trends and technology.
  • Nourish, mentor and challenge Junior and Senior Designers to unlock their full potentials.
  • Manage a digitally driven design process to effectively create compelling Interior Design proposals, both digital and physical.
  • Have an excellent understanding of production vehicle design practices, general vehicle development processes, timing and product cycles.
  • Provide oversight, guidance and support to vendors producting one-of-a-kind concept vehicles for auto shows worldwide.
  • Work with cross-departmental teams and balance design intent with vehicle feasibility.
  • Show passion and dedication to learn and integrate into modern flexible work schedule.
  • Consult with engineering and manufacturing to meet styling and manufacturing requirements.
  • Travel to Korea solo to oversee further product development by working with Namyang Design and Engineering teams and offsite vendors for model builds.
  • Travel up to 20% of time domestically and internationally.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
  • BS, BFA, MS or MFA in Transportation Design
  • 8-10+ years in the OEM automotive industry
  • Proficient in Alias, Photoshop, Illustrator, Blender, VRED, Sub-D, AI Software, MS Office, clay
  • Proven experience in multiple significant concept and/or production cars to his or her name

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
    • Compensation Range: $140,000 ~ $200,000
  • Retirement savings and planning benefits
  • Access to health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts
  • Up to 20% travel (domestic and international)

OTHER DETAILS
Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is an Equal Opportunity Employer included Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.

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