1

Automotive Interior Trim Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer 5

Southfield, MI · On-site

$91K - $124K/yr

... trims, consoles, headliners, etc.) • Knowledge and understanding of automotive interior ... in CAD for 2D/3D concept drawings, interior components and systems, packaging layouts, and DFM ...

Be Seen First

Install and secure upholstery, carpeting, headliners, door panels, and other interior trim elements ... Knowledge of manufacturing processes related to automotive interior assembly and customization.

Be Seen First

Install and secure upholstery, carpeting, headliners, door panels, and other interior trim elements ... Knowledge of manufacturing processes related to automotive interior assembly and customization.

Design Release Body Interior

Allen Park, MI · Hybrid

$36.75 - $42/hr

Design Release Engineer basic understanding of automotive interior components and BOM structure. Applicable parts include Seats, Steering wheels, Hard trim and Deco trim. Experience Required: BS ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automotive Interior Trim Design information

See salary details

$14

$25

$40

How much do automotive interior trim design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive interior trim 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 trim design?

Automotive interior trim design is the process of creating and developing the interior components and surfaces of a vehicle, such as seats, dashboards, door panels, and consoles. Designers focus on aesthetics, comfort, ergonomics, material selection, and manufacturing feasibility to ensure a high-quality user experience. This field blends creativity with engineering, as designers must meet safety standards, brand requirements, and cost constraints while producing appealing interiors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Interior Trim Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Interior Trim Designer, you need a strong background in industrial or automotive design, knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes, and typically a relevant degree or certification. Proficiency in CAD software (such as CATIA or AutoCAD), 3D modeling tools, and familiarity with industry standards are essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help designers collaborate with engineers and translate concepts into functional, appealing interiors. These skills and qualities ensure the creation of innovative, ergonomic, and manufacturable vehicle interiors that meet both aesthetic and safety requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Automotive Interior Trim Design, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Automotive Interior Trim Design often face challenges balancing aesthetic appeal with functional requirements such as safety, durability, and cost constraints. Coordinating with cross-functional teams like engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers can also be complex, as design decisions must align with technical feasibility and production capabilities. Staying up-to-date with new materials and evolving customer preferences requires adaptability and continuous learning. Building strong communication skills and maintaining a collaborative approach are key to successfully navigating these challenges and delivering innovative, high-quality interior solutions.

What is the difference between Automotive Interior Trim Design vs Automotive Interior Upholsterer?

AspectAutomotive Interior Trim DesignAutomotive Interior Upholsterer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing interior components and layoutsInstalling and repairing upholstery and interior surfaces
Skills & CertificationsCAD software, design principles, automotive standardsUpholstery techniques, hand tools, fabric and leather skills
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, automotive manufacturers, suppliersRepair shops, manufacturing plants, customization shops
Industry UsageUsed during the vehicle development phaseInvolved in post-production interior work and repairs

Automotive Interior Trim Design focuses on creating the visual and functional aspects of vehicle interiors during the design phase, while Automotive Interior Upholsterer specializes in installing and repairing interior materials after manufacturing. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but serve different stages of the vehicle's lifecycle.

More about Automotive Interior Trim Design jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Interior Trim Design jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Interior Trim Design jobs are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Interior Trim Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% 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 • On-site

$25.50 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 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