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Automotive Interior Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer - Seats

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$90 - $150K/hr

Responsible for the design and engineering of automotive interior seating components * Work with other teams to develop technical specifications in support of the quoting and sourcing process

Job Title Lead, Interior Design About Canoo Canoo's mission is to bring EVs to Everyone and build a ... Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in industrial / transportation / automotive design. * 10+ Years ...

Controls Engineer

Alma, MI ยท On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

... for the design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of automation and control systems within a high-volume automotive interior manufacturing environment. This role plays a ...

Controls Engineer

Alma, MI ยท On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

... for the design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of automation and control systems within a high-volume automotive interior manufacturing environment. This role plays a ...

Controls Engineer

Alma, MI

$45.67 - $48.08/hr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of automation and control systems within a high-volume automotive interior manufacturing ...

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Automotive Interior Design information

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How much do automotive interior design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive interior design in the United States is $25.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $28.37 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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Automotive Interior Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Interior Design jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Interior Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Interior Design jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Interior Design jobs are:
What states have the most Automotive Interior Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Interior Design jobs include:
Infographic showing various Automotive Interior Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,697 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
CAD Designer - Soft & Hard Trim (CATIA / NX)

CAD Designer - Soft & Hard Trim (CATIA / NX)

Detroit Engineered Products

Troy, MI โ€ข On-site

$25.50 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title: CAD Designer - Soft & Hard Trim (CATIA / NX)
Job Summary
Seeking a skilled CAD Designer to support the design and development of automotive soft trim (seats, door panels, headliners, instrument panel skins) and hard trim (IP consoles, pillars, bezels, trim covers) components. The ideal candidate will have strong proficiency in CATIA and NX for 3D modeling, surfacing, and detailing.
Key Responsibilities
  • Create and modify 3D CAD models and 2D drawings for soft and hard trim components using CATIA V5/V6 and Siemens NX
  • Develop Class A and Class B surfaces for interior trim parts
  • Collaborate with design, engineering, and manufacturing teams to ensure feasibility and meet styling, packaging, and regulatory requirements
  • Support DFMEA, GD&T, and tolerance stack-up analysis
  • Revise designs based on input from CAE, prototyping, and tooling teams
  • Maintain BOM and ensure all CAD data is managed in PLM system (e.g., Teamcenter, ENOVIA)
Required Qualifications
  • Associate or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in automotive interior trim design (soft and/or hard trim)
  • Proficiency in CATIA V5/V6 (Part Design, Generative Shape Design, Assembly, Drafting)
  • Proficiency in Siemens NX (Modeling, Drafting, Assemblies)
  • Understanding of manufacturing processes: injection molding, compression molding, thermoforming, foaming, and trimming
  • Knowledge of materials: fabrics, leather, foam, PVC, ABS, PP, etc.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Class A surfacing
  • Familiarity with Teamcenter or ENOVIA PLM
  • Knowledge of GD&T and stack-up analysis
  • Experience working with OEM or Tier 1 automotive suppliers