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Design Lead Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

HS Inc.

Lead Mechanical Design Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$106K - $128K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join Our Team We are seeking a skilled Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to guide a team of designers in developing innovative automation and machine solutions. In this leadership role, you will ...

General Motors

Lead/Studio Design Engineer

Warren, MI

$96K - $126K/yr

The Lead/Studio Design Engineer is responsible for integrating and balancing vehicle models with Design in partnership with Architecture, SMT, Performance, Human Factors and Manufacturing. We are at ...

General Motors

Lead/Studio Design Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

The Lead/Studio Design Engineer is responsible for integrating and balancing vehicle models with Design in partnership with Architecture, SMT, Performance, Human Factors and Manufacturing. We are at ...

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All JobsDesign Lead JobsDesign Lead Jobs in Michigan

Design Lead information

See Michigan salary details

$34

$52

$71

How much do design lead jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for design lead in Michigan is $52.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.62 and $62.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design lead?

A Design Lead is a senior professional responsible for guiding the creative direction and execution of design projects within an organization. They oversee design teams, collaborate with stakeholders, and ensure that visual and user experience standards are met. Design Leads often mentor junior designers, manage project timelines, and help align design strategies with business goals. Their role blends creative leadership with project management to deliver effective and innovative design solutions.

How does a design lead typically balance hands-on design work with team leadership responsibilities?

As a Design Lead, you'll often split your time between guiding and mentoring your team, setting the creative direction, and contributing directly to high-priority projects. While your leadership duties—such as conducting design reviews, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with business goals—will take up a significant portion of your schedule, most organizations still expect you to remain actively involved in the design process. This balance requires strong organizational skills and the ability to delegate effectively, ensuring both team growth and high-quality deliverables.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design lead, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Lead, you need a solid background in design principles, user experience (UX), and visual communication, typically supported by a degree in design or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and knowledge of project management systems is crucial. Strong leadership, collaboration, and communication skills help you guide teams and articulate design vision effectively. These skills ensure projects are delivered with high-quality design, aligned with business goals, and foster innovation within teams.

What is the difference between Design Lead vs UX Designer?

AspectDesign LeadUX Designer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Design, Graphic Design, or related fields; experience in leadership rolesBachelor's or Master's in Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, or related fields; portfolio showcasing UX projects
Work EnvironmentLeads design teams, collaborates with product managers and developers, oversees project directionFocuses on user research, wireframing, prototyping, and usability testing within product teams
Industry UsageCommonly found in tech, advertising, and design agenciesPrimarily in tech companies, startups, and digital product firms

The main difference is that a Design Lead oversees the entire design process and team, providing strategic direction, while a UX Designer concentrates on creating user-centered experiences through research and design. Both roles require strong design skills, but the Design Lead has broader responsibilities and leadership duties.

What are popular job titles related to Design Lead jobs in Michigan?

For Design Lead jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Lead jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Lead jobs in Michigan are:

Design Lead jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Lead job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,230 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Lead Mechanical Design Engineer

HS Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$106K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team
We are seeking a skilled Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to guide a team of designers in developing innovative automation and machine solutions. In this leadership role, you will combine hands-on mechanical design expertise with team leadership to deliver high-quality machines that meet customer needs, project timelines, and budget expectations.
If you thrive in a collaborative engineering environment, enjoy mentoring designers, and have a strong background in machine design and SolidWorks, we'd love to hear from you.
Benefits
We value our employees and offer a competitive benefits package including:
  • Competitive salary
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Career growth and leadership development opportunities
  • Collaborative and innovative work environment
  • Ongoing training and professional development

Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Team Development
  • Lead and manage a team of designers within cross-functional project teams.
  • Mentor and develop designers while identifying future team leaders.
  • Analyze team performance, skills, and workflow gaps and provide insight to management.
  • Promote a collaborative, positive, and safety-focused work culture.

Engineering & Design
  • Lead the design of medium to large custom automation machines.
  • Provide guidance to engineers and designers on mechanical design best practices.
  • Ensure designs are accurate, manufacturable, and aligned with project scope.
  • Apply advanced CAD techniques and engineering principles to complete assignments.
  • Use SolidWorks to create detailed models and drawings from sketches, existing drawings, and other technical inputs.
  • Draft engineering notes, specifications, and technical documentation.
  • Perform simulations and risk assessments as required.

Project & Process Management
  • Manage competing priorities and multiple machine design projects simultaneously.
  • Communicate project progress with customers, team members, and management.
  • Identify and resolve potential project issues early.
  • Monitor bills of materials and collaborate with purchasing to improve cost and lead times.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, standards, and engineering codes.

Safety & Quality
  • Promote and implement safety-conscious design and build processes.
  • Ensure all drawings and documentation are complete, accurate, and error-free.
  • Support collaboration with manufacturing and plant departments.

QualificationsEducation
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Preferred: Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Mechatronics, or related field

Experience & Skills
  • Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks
  • Strong experience in small and medium machine design
  • Experience with large machine design
  • Advanced CAD modeling and drafting techniques
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Knowledge of metals and manufacturing materials
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to lead teams and manage multiple priorities

Physical Requirements
  • Frequent standing and walking
  • Frequent use of hands for handling tools and equipment
  • Occasional lifting, pushing, or pulling objects 25 lbs or more

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

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