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Automotive Designer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Automotive Finance Manager

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$160K - $275K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role is designed for experienced automotive F&I professionals with a proven record of performance in a dealership environment. If you have a successful track record in automotive F&I and are ...

Graphic Designer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$85K/yr

  • Retirement

Soni is partnering with a well-established automotive aftermarket company in the Salt Lake City area to find a Graphic Designer who can turn product passion into compelling creative. If you love ...

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Automotive Designer information

See Tennessee salary details

$47K

$68.3K

$85.2K

How much do automotive designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive designer in Tennessee is $68,293.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,600.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, transportation 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 automotive industry and staying updated on current design trends also enhance chances of employment.

What are some common challenges automotive designers face when balancing creativity with engineering constraints?

Automotive designers often encounter the challenge of blending innovative, visually striking concepts with practical engineering and safety requirements. While creativity is highly encouraged, every design must adhere to regulations, aerodynamics, manufacturability, and budget constraints. Effective collaboration with engineers, marketing teams, and production specialists is essential to ensure that the final vehicle is both aesthetically appealing and feasible to produce. Navigating these trade-offs is a key part of the role and can be both demanding and rewarding for designers who enjoy problem-solving in a team environment.

What does an automotive designer do?

An automotive designer is a creative professional that works in the automobile industry. Automotive designers are responsible for designing nearly all aspects of a car, including both external and internal components. As an automotive designer, your job duties revolve around using software like AutoCAD to create plans that can then be executed by the manufacturing team. You work with a creative team of designers to ensure you have a cohesive product that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

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

Getting a job as an automotive designer can be competitive due to the specialized skills required, such as proficiency in CAD software and a strong portfolio. Candidates typically need a relevant degree in industrial design or automotive engineering and relevant experience or internships to improve their chances.

What is the difference between Automotive Designer vs Automotive Engineer?

AspectAutomotive DesignerAutomotive Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Automotive Design, or related fieldBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, CAD software, collaborative teamsResearch labs, testing facilities, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageFocuses on aesthetics, style, and user experience of vehicle exteriors and interiorsFocuses on vehicle performance, safety, and technical systems

Automotive Designers primarily focus on the visual appearance and user experience of vehicles, working in design studios using CAD tools. Automotive Engineers concentrate on vehicle performance, safety, and technical systems, often working in labs and manufacturing settings. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but serve different functions in vehicle development.

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 automotive design, proficiency in sketching, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Mastery of design software such as Autodesk Alias, CATIA, and Adobe Creative Suite, along with familiarity with 3D modeling and prototyping tools, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication skills help set exceptional designers apart. These skills are crucial for developing innovative, functional, and aesthetically appealing vehicles that meet both client and industry standards.

Are automotive designers in demand?

Automotive designers are in steady demand as automakers seek innovative and efficient vehicle designs to meet consumer preferences and regulatory standards. The role often requires skills in CAD software and knowledge of industry trends, with employment prospects influenced by advancements in electric and autonomous vehicles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Designer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Automotive Designer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Automotive Designer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Automotive Designer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Designer jobs in TN?

For Automotive Designer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Automotive Designer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,293 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Automotive Finance Manager

Hudson Automotive Group

Clarksville, TN • On-site

$160K - $275K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Hudson Automotive Group rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

148th of 152 rated car dealerships


Job description

Wyatt Johnson Toyota, part of the award-winning Hudson Automotive Group, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Automotive Finance Manager to join our growing team. Hudson Automotive, a third-generation family-owned group, is one of the fastest-growing dealer groups in the Southeast U.S. This role is designed for experienced automotive F&I professionals with a proven record of performance in a dealership environment. If you have a successful track record in automotive F&I and are ready to advance your career, it's time to shift into gear with Wyatt Johnson Toyota!
***Applicants without prior Automotive Finance & Insurance experience in a dealership setting will not be considered***
What We Offer:
Top Compensation: Our top performing Finance Managers earn $250K+ annually
Hudson Academy: Ongoing professional development & leadership training
Paid Time Off: Up to 10 PTO days per year
Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
401(k) retirement program
Employee Discounts on vehicles and services
Who We're Looking For:
  • An experienced automotive F&I professional who delivers exceptional customer experience
  • A team-oriented collaborator who works effectively with sales leadership
  • A self-motivated, performance-driven professional who thrives in a high-volume dealership environment

Required Experience:
  • Prior Automotive Finance & Insurance Manager or Finance Manager experience in a franchised dealership
  • Proven success in structuring deals and securing lender approvals
  • Demonstrated ability to sell F&I products including service contracts, GAP, credit life, accident & health insurance
  • Experience presenting and explaining aftermarket products and extended warranties
  • Ability to convert cash deals to finance and maintain relationships with multiple lending sources, including manufacturer programs
  • Strong knowledge of compliance requirements and regulations affecting automotive finance departments
  • Track record of partnering with sales managers to maximize deal structure and profitability

Ready to work in a high-energy dealership and state-of-the-art facility while contributing to a team committed to operational excellence and customer satisfaction? If so, it's time to shift into gear with Hudson Automotive!
Hudson Automotive Group is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind protected by federal, state, or local law.

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