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Automotive Product Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Daikin

Product Design Engineer Level 2

Waller, TX · On-site

$116K - $140K/yr

At least 2 years of experience with product design in the automotive, appliance, or HVAC industry (preferred) People Management: No Physical Requirements / Working Environment: * Must be able to ...

Daikin

Product Design Engineer Level 2

Waller, TX

$116K - $140K/yr

At least 2 years of experience with product design in the automotive, appliance, or HVAC industry (preferred) People Management: No Physical Requirements / Working Environment: * Must be able to ...

Daikin

Product Design Engineer Level 2

Waller, TX · On-site

$116K - $140K/yr

At least 2 years of experience with product design in the automotive, appliance, or HVAC industry (preferred) People Management: No Physical Requirements / Working Environment: * Must be able to ...

Autokiniton

Product Engineer

New Boston, MI

Lead product development activities from concept through production launch ... Design and release automotive components/systems in compliance with customer requirements, industry ...

Autokiniton

Product Engineer

New Boston, MI · On-site

Lead product development activities from concept through production launch ... Design and release automotive components/systems in compliance with customer requirements, industry ...

Daikin

HVAC Product Design Engineer

Waller, TX · On-site

$116K - $140K/yr

At least 2 years of experience with product design in the automotive, appliance, or HVAC industry (preferred) People Management: No Physical Requirements / Working Environment: * Must be able to ...

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All JobsAutomotive Product Design Jobs

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.
Design Release Engineer - Intermediate (1454298)

Design Release Engineer - Intermediate (1454298)

Brightwing

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$43 - $48/hr

Other

Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Description Required 4 days onsite in Auburn Hills minimum The Design and Release Engineer - will be responsible for developing components/systems from initial design concept through full volume production. The Design and Release Engineer will provide feasibility input for development of designs from Product Design Office (PDO) concepts, sketch, and clay models. Establish and manage development timeline for life of project.

Develop functional objectives, build objectives, DVPR, and DFMEA for components. The Engineer will lead design, while leveraging external design source and/or internal CAD design resource. The Engineer will be responsible for the release of completed component geometry using Teamcenter/NX CAD tools.

Validate virtual designs using CAE resources and perform physical validation via component, system, and vehicle level testing. Manage internal documentation for release of systems. Plan and oversee tool construction and production of assemblies.

On-site support for vehicle pilot builds and production launch at assembly plant. Responsible for root cause analysis and determination of corrective action for issues with assembly, fit/finish, and functional performance. Analyze and remediate warranty, identify cost reduction opportunities on production of systems, candidate will also be responsible for safety compliance report documents.

Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical/Electrical/Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering degree from an ABET accredited university. Self-starter with demonstrated problem solving ability. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Strong leadership and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated ability to summarize and present work to management and cross-functional teams. 3-5 years of experience Demonstrated experience with Class A injection molded parts Additional Information / Must Have's: Experience with Interior or Exterior plastic injections or exposed decorated steel components (i.e., truck bumpers) Previous experience in automotive product development at either a supplier or OEM in North America - not looking for a designer; this job does not entail doing CAD design work Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written) Experience leading teams & working on complex components/issue OEM or Tier 1 experience Required 4 days onsite in Auburn Hills minimum Driving required Travel up to 20% to locally in metro Detroit; may need to cross Canadian border Contract to hire opportunity

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