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Automotive Product Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Product Design Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$115K - $192K/yr

Design and validate control algorithms (Model Based Design with Matlab/Simulink and C-code) to meet ... in C in automotive embedded controls. * 2+ years experience with MATLAB/Simulink Software ...

Product Design & Innovation Lead

Frederick, MD · On-site

$144K - $177K/yr

... spanning automotive, rail, and aerospace. With strength and performance that can be literally ... The Product Design & Innovation Lead will work closely with cross-functional teams, including ...

This role is for a Creo Designer with significant experience in the automotive domain. The successful candidate will be responsible for end-to-end product design, from concept to release, utilizing ...

Product Design Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$115K - $192K/yr

... in C in automotive embedded controls. * 2+ years experience with MATLAB/Simulink Software ... Design and validate control algorithms (Model Based Design with Matlab/Simulink and C-code) to meet ...

Title: Sr. Product Design Engineer Pioneer the next generation of innovation. Join us and you'll ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering ...

Be Seen First

Engineer/Product Design Drafter MAG INSTRUMENT, INC., the manufacturer of the Mag-Lite ® ... Automotive parts and accessories * Electrical hardware * Electronics hardware * Other consumer ...

Urgent

Minimum 5-7 years of hands-on, automotive product design. * Minimum 5 years' experience using Catia ... V5 or NX software. * 1-5 years Catia V5 or NX drawing experience. * Familiarity with Automotive OEM ...

New

Sr Product Design Engineer

Mankato, MN · Hybrid

$98K - $160K/yr

Title: Sr. Product Design Engineer Pioneer the next generation of innovation. Join us and you'll ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering ...

Showing results 41-60

Automotive Product Design information

See salary details

$88K

$189.5K

How much do automotive product design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 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.

Are automotive product designers in demand?

Automotive product designers are in demand due to the ongoing shift toward electric vehicles, autonomous technology, and innovative vehicle features. Employers seek professionals skilled in CAD software, prototyping, and sustainable design to develop competitive products in the automotive industry.

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 is the process of developing the appearance, functionality, and overall user experience of vehicles and their components. This field involves combining engineering principles with creative design to create cars, trucks, and other vehicles that are safe, efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and meet consumer needs. Automotive product designers work on both the exterior and interior of vehicles, collaborating with engineers and manufacturers to bring ideas from concept to production. Their work not only influences how vehicles look but also how they perform and how comfortable they are for users.

How hard is it to get a job in automotive product design?

Securing a job in automotive product design can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree in industrial design, engineering, or a related field, along with experience in CAD software and prototyping. Building a strong portfolio and gaining industry-specific skills can improve employment prospects, but entry may still be challenging due to high demand for specialized talent.

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Automotive Product Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $184,336 per year, or $88.6 per hour.

Design Engineer - Product Design & Integration

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Minneapolis, MN

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility in Brooklyn Park, MN.

This is a full-time position with a full-benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Design Engineer - Product Design and Integration

The selected candidate will be a full‑time RFA employee working at a customer’s facility as part of their product development group. This role supports the design, integration, and release of mechanical systems and components for paving equipment. Work will be primarily office‑based with the possibility of intermittent prototype or validation support.

Responsibilities

The exact product and discipline (structures, engine install, hydraulics, light fabrications, operator interface) will depend on the engineering group you are assigned to. Responsibilities include CAD modeling, packaging studies, component integration, and cross‑functional collaboration to prepare designs for production release

  • Develop and integrate mechanical components and subsystems using 3D CAD (Creo preferred)
  • Perform packaging studies to place components, manage space constraints, and ensure proper system interfaces
  • Check and advise changes on engineering drawings, confirm quality requirements, and coordinate release of design documentation
  • Support prototype builds to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve design issues prior to production
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional engineering teams, manufacturing, supply management, and quality to ensure designs meet performance, cost, and manufacturability targets
  • Participate in design reviews, provide technical input, and drive continuous improvement in design processes
  • Apply engineering fundamentals to evaluate design tradeoffs, optimize solutions, and ensure robust system performance

Requirements

  • Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Agricultural Engineering or related degree
  • Experience with 3D modeling of components or systems (Creo preferred)
  • Experience with PDM systems (TeamCenter preferred)
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies
  • Excellent communication, both written and verbal
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment

Desired Skills and Experience

  • Strong component design and 3D modeling skills with an understanding of system‑level integration
  • Experience working within tight packaging constraints and balancing design tradeoffs
  • Knowledge of design‑for‑manufacturing principles and cost‑effective engineering
  • Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) and practical application
  • Ability to communicate clearly across global teams and navigate shared design spaces
  • Hands‑on experience with off‑highway, agricultural, automotive, or construction equipment
  • Familiarity with engineering change management and product release processes

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $65,000-$85,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance