1

Automotive Design Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Your expertise across modeling, fabrication, tooling and related automotive finishes will directly contribute to the development of production and advanced design programs. Powered by passion, we ...

... Automotive, Life Science, Insurance, legal, healthcare, among others. It also offers outsourcing ... Network design, Implementation &Administration Mask Design Location: Hillsboro, OR Duration ...

Own UX/UI design projects from concept to delivery, ensuring alignment with brand and user needs ... Experience designing for automotive, mobility, or other complex digital products. * Ability to play ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automotive Design information

What is the difference between Automotive Design vs Automotive Engineering?

AspectAutomotive DesignAutomotive Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Industrial Design, Automotive Design, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, CAD software, concept modelingR&D labs, testing facilities, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, design consultanciesAutomotive manufacturers, engineering firms
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on aesthetics, user experience, and concept creationFocuses on vehicle performance, safety, and technical systems

Automotive Design primarily involves creating the visual and aesthetic aspects of vehicles, emphasizing concept sketches and CAD modeling. Automotive Engineering, on the other hand, concentrates on the technical development, performance, and safety of vehicles. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but serve different functions in the vehicle development process.

What is an Automotive Designer?

An automotive designer is a professional responsible for creating the visual appearance and overall aesthetic of vehicles, including exterior and interior designs. They use tools like CAD software and collaborate with engineers to ensure designs are functional and manufacturable. Strong artistic skills, knowledge of engineering principles, and a background in industrial design or automotive engineering are typically required.

What job lets you design cars?

A career in automotive design involves creating the exterior and interior concepts of vehicles, often requiring skills in CAD software, engineering, and aesthetics. Automotive designers typically work for car manufacturers or design firms and may need a degree in industrial design, automotive engineering, or a related field.

How do you get into automotive design?

To pursue a career in automotive design, individuals typically earn a bachelor's degree in industrial design, automotive design, or a related field, and develop strong skills in sketching, 3D modeling, and CAD software. Building a portfolio of design projects and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions are essential steps to enter the field.

What is automotive design?

Automotive design is the process of creating the appearance, functionality, and ergonomics of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. This field combines art, engineering, and technology to develop both the exterior and interior look of vehicles, ensuring they are attractive, safe, and efficient. Automotive designers work closely with engineers and manufacturers to translate ideas into practical and aesthetically pleasing vehicles that meet safety and regulatory standards. The role requires skills in sketching, computer-aided design (CAD), and an understanding of materials and manufacturing processes.

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

Securing a job in automotive design can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree in industrial design, automotive engineering, or a related field, along with a strong portfolio demonstrating design skills. Experience with CAD software and knowledge of automotive trends can improve chances, but entry-level positions may be limited and require networking or internships.

How does collaboration typically work between automotive designers and engineering teams during the vehicle development process?

Automotive designers regularly collaborate with engineering teams to ensure that their creative concepts are feasible, safe, and manufacturable. Throughout the development process, designers attend cross-functional meetings, share digital models, and iterate on designs based on engineering feedback related to materials, aerodynamics, and manufacturing constraints. This close teamwork helps streamline the design process, resolve conflicts early, and achieve a balance between aesthetics, functionality, and cost. Effective communication and openness to feedback are key to success in this collaborative environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Designer, you need a strong background in industrial or transportation design, creativity, and a solid understanding of engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with CAD software like Autodesk Alias, CATIA, and Adobe Creative Suite is essential, and portfolios demonstrating design projects are often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills set outstanding designers apart by enabling effective collaboration and innovative solutions. These skills and qualifications are crucial for creating visually appealing, functional, and marketable vehicles in a highly competitive industry.
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Design jobs in Oregon? For Automotive Design jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Design jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Design jobs in Oregon are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Design job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Modeler - Concept Development

Dtna

Portland, OR • On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Inside the Role

Be a Game Changer in the DTNA Design Team. We push for design excellence in all that we do and are driven by four core values: Respect, Pioneering, Tenacity & Excellence. Fostering an environment of genuine trust, inclusivity and belonging is paramount to how we operate. Our commitment to innovation and progressive design expression results in products that the customers and operators love.
As a Senior Modeler, you will leverage your extensive experience in physical modeling and co-ordinate measuring machine (CMM) operation and related setups to join a high-performance team responsible for the DTNA portfolio of multi branded products, including Freightliner, Western Star, and business subsidiaries. Your expertise across modeling, fabrication, tooling and related automotive finishes will directly contribute to the development of production and advanced design programs.
Powered by passion, we shape tomorrow!

Posting Information

We provide a scheduled posting end date to assist our candidates with their application planning. While this date reflects our latest plans, it is subject to change, and postings may be extended or removed earlier than expected.

We Take Care of Our Team

Position offers a startingsalary range of$95,000 to $120,000 USD

Pay offered dependent on knowledge, skills, andexperience

Benefits include 401kcompany contribution with company match up to8% as well as non-elective company contribution of3 - 7% depending on age;starting at 4 weeks paidvacation; 13+ calendar holidays;8 weekspaidparental leave; employee assistance program;comprehensive healthcare plans and wellnessprograms; onsite fitness (at some locations); tuitionassistance and volunteer paid time off; short-termand long-term disability plans.

What You Drive at DTNA

  • You work directly with the Manager for Concept Development and his team to deliver projects, improve workflows and processes, and meet defined timing and deliverables.
  • You independently create and refine models for exterior, interior, and HMI components using clay, foam, metal, wood and other media.
  • You apply your advanced fabrication, tooling and modeling expertise along with your engineering and packaging knowledge to realize design intent within program constraints.
  • You contribute to feasibility discussions by identifying risks early and proposing practical, technically sound solutions in collaboration with the team and manager.
  • You develop scale and full-size models and components for Design Center, Marketing, Engineering and executive-level reviews.


Knowledge You Should Bring

  • Associates degree in Transportation Design, Industrial Design, or equivalent experience in related field.
  • Typically, 8+ years of relevant hands-on experience in automotive design, fabrication, or modeling.
  • Strong CAD and engineering drawing proficiency, with the ability to accurately translate them into physical models and components.
  • Experience with machine shop equipment setup and operation.
  • Proficiency with surface plate work, CMM operation and armature setup.
  • Advanced experience in composites, vacuum forming, and roto-molding, including tooling and part fabrication.
  • Strong knowledge of automotive paint processes and finishes with the ability to achieve Class-A surfaces across multiple applications.
  • Experience working with high- and low-density foams and bonding agents.
  • High proficient in hard model, functional model and conceptual vehicle build development.
  • Ability to work independently and resolve complex problems.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Exceptional Candidates Might Have

  • Professional experience as Modeler at an OEM or independent automotive design studio.
  • Experience with planning, material estimation, and cost management.
  • Strong creative drive combined with the ability to work as a team.

Where We Work

This position is open to applicants who can work in (or relocate to) the following location(s)-

Portland, OR US. Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Schedule Type:

Onsite

At Daimler Truck North America, we recognize our world is changing faster than ever before. By listening to the needs of today, we're building to solve with cutting-edge solutions in sustainability and future driving technology across electric, hydrogen and autonomous. These solutions, backed by years of innovative success and achievement, continue DTNA's legacy as the undisputed industry leader. Our evolving brand portfolio is second to none, including Freightliner Trucks, Western Star, Demand Detroit, Thomas Built Buses, Freightliner Custom Chassis, and Financial Services. Together, we work as one team towards our envisioned future - building a cleaner, safer and more efficient tomorrow for all.

That is what we are working toward - for all who keep the world moving.

Additional Information

  • This position is not open for Visa sponsorship or to existing Visa holders
  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work permanently in the country the position is located in at the time of application
  • Final candidate must successfully complete a criminal background check
  • Final candidate may be required to successfully complete a pre-employment drug screen
  • Contractors, professional services, or other contingent workers should confirm with their local agency if they are eligible to apply for FTE positions
  • EEO - Disabled/Veterans

Daimler Truck North America is committed to workforce inclusion and providing an environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, age, marital status, family relationship, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression (including transgender and transitioning status), genetic information, or veteran status.

For an accommodation or special assistance with applying for a posted position, please contact our Human Resources department at 503-745-8982 or toll free 800-206-3369. For TTY/TDD enabled call 503-745-2137 or toll free 866-355-6935.