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Automotive Product Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Delan Associates, Inc.

Creo Designer

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

We are actively looking for multiple Creo Designers with strong mechanical design and automotive product development experience for an onsite opportunity in Wauwatosa, WI. This is an excellent ...

Samsara

Staff Product Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$152K - $182K/yr

Demonstrated experience designing for automotive, outdoor, industrial, or consumer products * Proficiency in plastic/metal part design, CAD modeling, and drafting, preferably using NX * BS degree in ...

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Automotive Product Design information

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$88K

$189.5K

How much do automotive product design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive product design in the United States is $184,336.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $189,000.00 and $189,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Product Designer, you need strong skills in mechanical engineering, creativity, and proficiency in product design principles, typically supported by a degree in industrial or automotive design. Mastery of CAD software (such as CATIA, SolidWorks, or Autodesk Alias), 3D modeling tools, and knowledge of manufacturing processes are essential technical qualifications. Exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help designers collaborate with engineers, marketers, and clients throughout the design process. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing innovative, functional, and marketable vehicles that meet safety, aesthetic, and performance standards.

What is the difference between Automotive Product Design vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectAutomotive Product DesignAutomotive Design Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping overall vehicle concepts, features, and user experienceCreating detailed design solutions, CAD models, and engineering specifications
Required SkillsDesign thinking, user-centered design, basic engineering knowledgeCAD proficiency, engineering principles, technical drawing skills
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, collaborative teams, cross-disciplinary projectsEngineering labs, CAD software environments, technical review sessions
Common UsageConcept development, product planning, user experience designDetailed engineering, technical validation, prototype development

Automotive Product Design focuses on creating the overall vehicle concept and user experience, while Automotive Design Engineer concentrates on detailed engineering and technical specifications. Both roles are essential in the vehicle development process but differ in scope and daily tasks.

What is automotive product design?

Automotive product design involves developing the concepts, specifications, and visual appearance of vehicles and their components. It combines creativity with engineering skills, often using CAD software, to create functional and aesthetically appealing automotive products that meet safety and performance standards.

How does an automotive product design professional typically collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams during the development process?

Automotive product design professionals regularly work in cross-functional teams, collaborating closely with engineering and manufacturing departments to ensure that their designs are both innovative and feasible for production. This involves frequent meetings to discuss design intent, material selection, manufacturability, and compliance with safety standards. Designers must often adjust their concepts based on technical feedback, prototype testing, and cost considerations, making strong communication and teamwork skills essential. By engaging with these teams throughout the development cycle, designers help bridge the gap between creative vision and practical execution.

How much do BMW designers make?

BMW automotive product designers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of seniority. Entry-level designers may start at lower salaries, while experienced designers or those in senior roles can earn higher compensation, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.

What jobs can DT get you?

An automotive product designer can pursue roles such as vehicle concept designer, CAD engineer, or prototype developer, focusing on creating and improving vehicle components and systems. These jobs often require skills in 3D modeling, engineering software, and knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes, with opportunities in automotive companies, design studios, and suppliers.

How much money do automotive designers make?

Automotive designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, with experienced professionals or those working for major automakers earning over $100,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the design work involved.
More about Automotive Product Design jobs
What states have the most Automotive Product Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Product Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Product Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Product Design jobs are:
Automotive Product Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Product Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $184,336 per year, or $88.6 per hour.
Creo Designer

Creo Designer

Delan Associates, Inc.

Wauwatosa, WI • On-site

Contractor

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

We are actively looking for multiple Creo Designers with strong mechanical design and automotive product development experience for an onsite opportunity in Wauwatosa, WI. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates who have hands-on expertise in Creo design tools, surfacing, sheet metal, plastic, and casting component design.
*Job Responsibilities*
Create and develop concept models using Creo Part, Assembly, and Surfacing modules.
Design and develop sheet metal, plastic, and casting components for automotive applications.
Work on mechanical product design, detailing, drafting, dimensioning, and tolerancing activities.
Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, suppliers, and cross-functional engineering teams throughout the product development cycle.
Support engineering change management, prototype development, and product release activities.
Ensure designs meet manufacturability, quality, and functional requirements.
Participate in design reviews, validation activities, and engineering documentation processes.
Contribute to design optimization, cost reduction, and value engineering initiatives.
*Required Skills*
Strong hands-on experience with Creo CAD tools.
Expertise in:
Surfacing
GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
DFX / DFA concepts
Automotive product design
Experience designing:
Plastic components
Sheet metal components
Casting parts
Hands-on experience with Creo Part Modeling, Assembly, and Surfacing.
Good understanding of mechanical design principles and automotive development processes.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced engineering environment.
*Preferred Skills*
Ability to independently handle conceptual design activities.
Knowledge of:
Prototyping
ECN (Engineering Change Notice)
PPAP documentation
Reverse engineering
Fixture and gauge design
Stack-up analysis
VAVE activities
Sheet metal press tools
Experience working through the complete product development lifecycle from concept to production.
Exposure to DFMEA and DVP&R activities is a plus.
*Qualifications*
Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
8 years of mechanical design experience.
Automotive industry experience preferred.
*Interview Process*
In-person interviews for local candidates.

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