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Automotive Interior Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Rivian Automotive LLC

Interior Engineer

Livonia, MI · On-site

RESPONSIBILITIES Execute the technical details and design of Rivian's interior systems from ... S. or higher in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent 5+ years of experience in automotive interior ...

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All JobsAutomotive Interior Design JobsAutomotive Interior Design Jobs in Michigan

Automotive Interior Design information

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$12

$22

$35

How much do automotive interior design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive interior design in Michigan is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $24.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is automotive interior design?

Automotive interior design is the process of creating and developing the inside spaces of vehicles, including the layout, materials, colors, textures, and features that enhance comfort, safety, and user experience. Designers focus on elements such as seats, dashboards, instrument panels, controls, and infotainment systems to ensure functionality and aesthetics. This field combines creativity with technical expertise to meet both manufacturer requirements and customer preferences while adhering to safety and ergonomic standards.

What is the difference between Automotive Interior Design vs Automotive Exterior Design?

AspectAutomotive Interior DesignAutomotive Exterior Design
FocusDesigning the interior cabin, including dashboards, seats, and controlsDesigning the vehicle's exterior, including body shape, headlights, and grille
SkillsKnowledge of ergonomics, materials, and interior aestheticsKnowledge of aerodynamics, body engineering, and exterior styling
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, automotive manufacturers, suppliersDesign studios, automotive manufacturers, suppliers
Common CertificationsAutomotive design degrees, CAD proficiencyAutomotive design degrees, CAD proficiency

Automotive Interior Design and Automotive Exterior Design both involve vehicle styling but focus on different aspects. Interior designers concentrate on cabin comfort and aesthetics, while exterior designers shape the vehicle's overall look and aerodynamics. Both roles require similar skills, education, and work environments, but their design priorities differ significantly.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Interior Designer, you need strong skills in industrial design, ergonomics, material selection, and a relevant degree in design or engineering. Proficiency with CAD software (such as CATIA or Autodesk Alias), 3D modeling tools, and knowledge of manufacturing processes are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration set exceptional designers apart in this field. These skills are crucial for delivering innovative, safe, and market-competitive vehicle interiors that meet both functional and aesthetic requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by automotive interior designers when balancing aesthetics and functionality?

Automotive interior designers often face the challenge of creating interiors that are visually appealing while also meeting strict safety, ergonomic, and manufacturing requirements. Balancing innovative designs with material limitations, cost constraints, and compliance with industry standards can be difficult. Additionally, designers must collaborate closely with engineers and product managers to ensure that their concepts are feasible for production and enhance the overall user experience. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and delivering successful interior solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Interior Design jobs in Michigan? For Automotive Interior Design jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Interior Design jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Interior Design jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Automotive Interior Design jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Automotive Interior Design job openings:
Automotive Interior Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Interior Design job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,930 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

SolidWorks Design Engineer - Automotive Interior Plastics & Trims

Detroit Engineered Products

Imlay City, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 hours ago

Job description

Position Summary:
We are seeking a skilled Design Engineer with expertise in interior injection molded plastics and interior trims to join our team in Imlay City, MI. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience using SolidWorks to design and develop automotive interior components.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and develop interior trim components (door panels, instrument panels, consoles, pillars, etc.) using SolidWorks.
  • Create and manage 3D models, detailed drawings, and BOMs for injection molded plastic parts.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (manufacturing, tooling, quality) to ensure design feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
  • Select appropriate plastic materials based on performance, cost, and aesthetic requirements.
  • Support tooling development and troubleshoot molding-related design issues (draft angles, wall thickness, gate locations, etc.).
  • Participate in design reviews and modify designs based on feedback from simulation, testing, or production.
  • Ensure designs meet dimensional tolerances, regulatory standards, and customer specifications.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 3+ years of design engineering experience focused on automotive interior plastics and trims.
  • Expert proficiency in SolidWorks (advanced surfacing, sheet metal, and plastic features).
  • Strong understanding of injection molding design guidelines (shrinkage, undercuts, rib design, boss design, etc.).
  • Knowledge of interior trim joining methods (welding, adhesives, clips, screws).
  • Familiarity with GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis.
  • Ability to work onsite full-time in Michigan.

Preferred Skills:
  • Experience with Class A surface data and aesthetic part design.
  • Knowledge of low- or high-volume injection molding tooling.
  • Familiarity with FEA or mold flow analysis.
  • Understanding of automotive interior regulations (FMVSS, flammability, etc.).

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