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Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Midland-Marvel Recruiters

Design Engineer

Woodland, WA

$75K - $100K/yr

Required Education and/or Experience * 2 years + experience with plastic part design, preference for automotive engineering. * Associates Degree or Bachelor's Degree preferred, but not required.

Ralliant

Hardware Design Engineer

Beaverton, OR · On-site

Position Summary We are seeking an entry-level Hardware Design Engineer to contribute to the design, development, validation, and support of advanced electronic hardware for test and measurement ...

Ralliant

Hardware Design Engineer

Beaverton, OR · On-site

Position Summary We are seeking an entry-level Hardware Design Engineer to contribute to the design, development, validation, and support of advanced electronic hardware for test and measurement ...

Exyte Group

Graduate Engineer Tool Install

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K/yr

... * Entry-level position; recent graduates and candidates seeking to begin a career in engineering design and project delivery are encouraged to apply. Preferred * Equivalent combination of education ...

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All JobsAutomotive Design Engineer JobsEntry Level Automotive Design Engineer JobsEntry Level Automotive Design Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$31.8K

$73.6K

$125.1K

How much do entry level automotive design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level automotive design engineer in Portland, OR is $73,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level automotive design engineer do?

An Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer assists in developing and improving vehicle components and systems, such as the body, chassis, and interior features. They typically work with senior engineers to create design concepts, prepare technical drawings, and use computer-aided design (CAD) software. Their role often involves collaborating with other teams to ensure designs meet safety, performance, and cost requirements, as well as participating in testing and prototyping. This position is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to start their careers in the automotive industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level automotive design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like CATIA, SolidWorks, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for developing innovative automotive components that meet performance, safety, and manufacturing requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level automotive design engineers, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Entry level automotive design engineers often encounter challenges such as learning complex CAD software, understanding company-specific design standards, and effectively communicating ideas within multidisciplinary teams. Adapting to fast-paced project timelines and incorporating feedback from senior engineers or manufacturing teams can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, new engineers should actively seek mentorship, participate in training sessions, and regularly collaborate with colleagues in related departments to build both technical and soft skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer vs Automotive Design Technician?

AspectEntry Level Automotive Design EngineerAutomotive Design Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive EngineeringAssociate degree or technical certification in automotive technology
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, CAD labs, R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, testing facilities, repair shops
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, design firmsAutomotive service centers, manufacturing companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level design roles in automotive industryLearning about technical roles supporting automotive design

Entry Level Automotive Design Engineers focus on creating and developing vehicle designs using CAD software, often working in design studios. Automotive Design Technicians support these designs through testing, troubleshooting, and manufacturing processes. While both roles are essential in automotive development, the engineer primarily handles design concepts, whereas the technician focuses on implementation and testing.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR?

For Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,559 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Design Engineer

Woodland, WA

Midland-Marvel Recruiters
See more jobs at Midland-Marvel Recruitersexternal

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Very large and fast growing OEM products manufacturer has an exciting opportunity available for a Design Engineer.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS


  • May coordinate multiple small projects or large project simultaneously
  • Collaborate and coordinate with other functional groups, suppliers, and customers.
  • Identifies root causes of problems; recommends and/or implements corrective measures.
  • May support activities and projects within the team, between internal teams, and projects in support of customer expectations and new product development.
  • Model, prototype, and build product concepts; verify the design meets specifications and safety/regulatory standards.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • May be assigned engineering maintenance responsibilities for major product lines.
  • Hands-on work on shop floor as job requires.
  • Represents company with dignity, professionalism and good faith at events and customer contact and interactions.
  • Accountable for developing and monitoring processes and practices necessary for legal and ethical compliance in assigned area.
  • Responsible for prompt and regular attendance on-site or remote as appropriate or required.
  • Work safely and without injury.


Required Education and/or Experience


  • 2 years + experience with plastic part design, preference for automotive engineering.
  • Associates Degree or Bachelor’s Degree preferred, but not required.
  • High School Diploma or GED required.


Required Qualifications


  • Working knowledge of CAD programs – preferably NX.
  • Experience with plastics design and injection mold construction.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, customers and visitors.
  • Ability to effectively problem-solve.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Ability to facilitate activities necessary to a project’s completion.
  • Must have history of impeccable integrity, ethics and fair play.


Language skills


Ability to read, write, verbalize and comprehend instructions and correspondence at the highest levels in the English language. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and group situations to customers, clients, and other team members. Conflict resolution skills. Excellent interpersonal skills. Excellent verbal and customer service skills.