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Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... the automotive and industrial industries. We enjoy the prestige of being a major supplier of ... NTN has an outstanding job opportunity for a CAD/Design Engineer at our Farmington Hills, MI ...

Design Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$85K - $96K/yr

In this role, you will bring automotive filtration systems to life, from initial concept through ... You will create CAD models and engineering drawings and ensure that the design meets Filtran ...

Design Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$85K - $96K/yr

In this role, you will bring automotive filtration systems to life, from initial concept through ... You will create CAD models and engineering drawings and ensure that the design meets Filtran ...

Product Design Engineer

Rochester Hills, MI

$118K - $142K/yr

Product Design Engineer I - Location: Rochester Hills, Michigan Wintegrity is searching for a ... This position is responsible for designing and developing automotive products that meet or exceed ...

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Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer information

See salary details

$30K

$69.4K

$118K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level automotive design engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 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.

More about Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Design Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Automotive Design Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Entry-level Electrical Design Engineer

Salas O'Brien

Rochester, NY • On-site

$30 - $34.86/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

164th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Design Engineer
M/E Engineering, a Salas O'Brien company.
At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That's why we're committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.
Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career-and they'll receive great total rewards along the way.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.
Job Summary:
The Entry-Level Electrical Design Engineer is an entry-level to early-career engineering role responsible for supporting the design and development of building systems across a wide range of project types. This position works under the direction of senior engineering staff to develop layouts, perform engineering calculations, assist in the creation of construction documents, and ensure technical quality.
This role is designed to build the foundational skills required to advance into a Project Engineer position. The Entry-Level Electrical Design Engineer is expected to demonstrate initiative, curiosity, technical competency, and strong collaboration skills while actively supporting project execution. Displays M/E Engineering's core values on a daily basis- Stewardship, Approachability, Design Excellence, Professionalism and Integrity.
Responsibilities:
  • Works with Senior Engineer, Project Engineer, and or Principal.
  • Independently perform assignments after instructions as to the general results expected.
  • Receives guidance on unusual problems and supervisory approval on developed plans.
  • Assists in the preparation of contract documents.
  • Plans, schedules, and conducts all phases of the work in a part of or a total project of moderate scope.
  • Performs conventional engineering work including standard designs.
  • Makes engineering calculations.
  • Develop elementary designs expanding on detailed schematic sketches.
  • Coordinates production and coordination with Senior Engineer/Designer or Project Engineer/Designer.
  • May supervise or coordinate the work of CAD Operators and Designers.

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Associate's or Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering (or related discipline/equivalent combination of experience and education).
  • Foundational understanding of building systems design (energy, etc.) preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of building codes, industry standards, and engineering principles preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and design documents.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and/or Revit; basic understanding of BIM workflows preferred.
  • Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a team-oriented environment.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Location: Rochester or Buffalo, NY
Travel: Up to 15%
Compensation & Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this role is $30.00 - $34.86 USD per hour, hourly, non-exempt. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
This role is also eligible for a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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