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Automotive Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are experts in complete vehicle development and the optimization of production facilities for the automotive industry. As a Designing Engineer, you will be responsible for the CAD design and ...

Aerospace or automotive design experience. * Self-motivated with strong multi-tasking, organizational, communication and documentation skills. * Ability to work well in an integrated team including ...

Aerospace or automotive design experience. * Experience designing and managing large CAD assemblies and associated drawings. * Self-motivated with strong multi-tasking, organizational, communication ...

Design Engineer (#10846DP)

Erie, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... automotive design, or electro/mechanical products · BS Degree in Engineering required -- preference for Mechanical Engineering (ME), Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET), or Plastics Engineering ...

Midwest Automotive Design--Detailer

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Job Title: Detailer I What a day in the life of a Detailer at Alliance RV looks like: * Cleaning and detailing the exterior and interior of vehicles in the production process * Visually inspect ...

Kia Design Center - Designer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$75K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Research and analyze trends in automotive Design, as well as emerging technologies, products, fashion, and architecture. * Be able to attend auto shows and other design-related events. * Be able to ...

Kia Design Center - Designer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$75K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Research and analyze trends in automotive Design, as well as emerging technologies, products, fashion, and architecture. * Be able to attend auto shows and other design-related events. * Be able to ...

This position offers hands-on involvement in the design and development of Body systems, providing an excellent opportunity to build foundational skills in automotive design. Basic Qualifications:

This position offers hands-on involvement in the design and development of Body systems, providing an excellent opportunity to build foundational skills in automotive design. Basic Qualifications:

Local 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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Automotive Design information

See salary details

$50.5K

$73.4K

$91.5K

How much do automotive design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design 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 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.

How to get hired as an automotive designer?

To get hired as an automotive designer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in industrial design, automotive design, or a related field, along with a strong portfolio showcasing their design skills and creativity. Proficiency in CAD software such as Alias, Rhino, or SolidWorks is often required, and relevant internship experience can improve job prospects. Networking within the industry and staying updated on automotive trends also enhance chances of employment.

How do you become an automotive designer?

To become an automotive designer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in industrial design, automotive design, or a related field, along with strong skills in sketching, 3D modeling, and computer-aided design (CAD) software. Gaining experience through internships or portfolio work is important, and a good understanding of engineering and manufacturing processes can enhance job prospects.

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 strong portfolio work. 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 does an automotive designer do?

An automotive designer creates the exterior and interior visual concepts of vehicles, focusing on aesthetics, ergonomics, and functionality. They use design software like CAD programs and collaborate with engineers to ensure designs are feasible and meet safety standards. The role often requires a strong understanding of automotive engineering, creativity, and proficiency in sketching and modeling tools.

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.
More about Automotive Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Design jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Design jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Design jobs are:
What states have the most Automotive Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Design jobs include:
Infographic showing various Automotive Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,374 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Position: Design Engineer
Location: Troy, Michigan
Division: Design and Engineering
Who we are:
Working together, growing together, and creating innovations together: EDAG connects people with the future of mobility, making the impossible possible! With our 180 employees at EDAG Inc., we are designing the future of mobility by providing global world-class engineering services. There is a bit of EDAG in almost every car. We are experts in complete vehicle development and the optimization of production facilities for the automotive industry.
As a Designing Engineer, you will be responsible for the CAD design and development of new products, in line with planning, process, quality and cost targets. As well as releasing, the completed engineering designs and creating all associated documentation.
This will make you grow:
  • Work with an extended team, discovering and resolving issues, and implementing effective solutions
  • Organize and lead working level meetings to drive feasibility
  • This is an opportunity to participate in the creative development of new products, influencing the future of the OEM’s brand
This is how you'll take us forward:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience.
  • 2+ Years of automotive design and engineering experience
  • Experience in automotive Body in White (e.g. Roof, Front Header, A Pillar, B Pillar, Quarter Outer, Body Side Outer, Rocker Outer, Roof Rails Fenders etc.)
  • Experience with sheet metal stampings
  • Work with engineering team in developing concepts and communicate requirement to cross functional teams.
  • Proficient in automotive CAD Systems (NX Unigraphics, CATIA V.6, SoildWorks)
    • Develop parametric models and update CAD as necessary for concept release
    • Ability to create 2D drawings
    • Advance experience and understanding of GD amp;T, including datum schemes and gage design
    • Release CAD and drawings for tool kick off
  • Experience in creating and presenting Technical Reports utilizing MS Office Products (PowerPoint, Excel, MS Word, etc.)
  • Communicate technical requirements with supplier, manage program milestones and ensure all deadlines are met in a timely fashion.
  • Conduct cross-functional design reviews and report all issues and findings and perform necessary tasks to rectify any and all know issues.
  • Write and manage DVP amp;R, and DFMEA.
  • Participate and organize design release review with supplier and internal team.
  • Monitor release process and complete necessary documentation to ensure smooth tool kick off.
No Sponsorship is Available at this Time
No relocation- Preference will be given to local candidates
EDAG Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce. EDAG Inc. does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status or any other state, local, or federal employment laws. EDAG’s intends that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.