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Automotive Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Automotive Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$49.2K

$71.5K

$89.1K

How much do automotive designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive designer in Virginia is $71,483.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,400.00 and $77,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

Are automotive designers in demand?

Automotive designers are in demand as automakers focus on innovative vehicle designs, electric vehicles, and sustainability. The profession requires strong skills in CAD software and knowledge of industry trends, with job growth expected to be steady in the automotive industry.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Automotive Designer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Designer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Automotive Designer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Automotive Designer job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Automotive Designer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,483 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Automotive Technician/ Master Technician |NOVA

Virginia Tire and Auto

Ashburn, VA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 hours ago


Job description

Virginia Tire & Auto is seeking a Master Automotive Technician for our Fairfax County locations who is passionate about working on cars and who will thrive in a high volume, fast-paced environment. Our modern automotive shops are filled with the latest tools and technologies, giving you the opportunity to grow and learn. As a Master Automotive Technician with Virginia Tire & Auto, you can expect to turn above average hours in busy shops as well as great pay, great benefits, and high-tech facilities.

Responsibilities

  • Diagnose and perform repairs on various vehicle makes (brakes, hydraulics, exhaust, fuel ignition, electrical, suspension, alignment, air conditioning, computer systems etc.)
  • Coordinate parts ordering with the Service Manager enabling the Master Automotive Technician to be efficient as possible.
  • Road test vehicles to ensure repairs are complete.

Experience & Qualifications

  • Valid driverโ€™s license
  • ASE automotive mechanic certification(s) preferred
  • Emissions repair technician experience preferred
  • Broad market experience in all areas of automotive service & repair

Why Join Virginia Tire & Auto?

  • Starting Pay $25-$45 (Based on exp)
  • Low-Cost Health Insuranceย 
  • Industry Best Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • Tire and Auto repair discounts
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • A company culture designed to support your career growth
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement
  • Affordable dental and vision insurance
  • Paid Certifications and Training for Career Development
  • Preferred Scheduling
  • Competitive flat rate pay (Up to and can surpass 100k)ย 
  • A clean, professional work environment with a team that wants to see you succeed
  • Company supplied automotive scan tools
  • High Car count that enables our automotive technicians to be more than 100% efficient on a daily basis
  • Clean professional work environment with access to industry best tools and technologies

Who We Are

  • A Top Family Owned Business in the DC area, as awarded by the Washington Business Journal, that is committed to employee advancement and growth. Virginia Tire & Auto offers career paths and stability to its 400+ employees.
  • Best of NOVA Auto Repair winner 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2018ย by Northern Virginia Magazine
  • Top Shop in North America by Tire Review Magazine
Virginia Tire & Auto is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

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