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Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Future Soft IT

Product Design Engineer

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$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 ...

Automation IG

Be Seen First

Experienced Mechanical Design Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer to perform conceptual and detailed mechanical design of weld fixtures ... A clear understanding of automotive GD&T is important. This is not an entry level position. ProE ...

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Design Engineer

Bellows Falls, VT · On-site

Who We Are Sonnax provides innovative transmission repair products for the automotive aftermarket ... What You'll Do This Design Engineer is responsible for product development and design with a strong ...

Yanfeng

Design Engineer

Novi, MI

The CAD Designer / Engineer's key responsibilities include: 1. Creating new CAD models of future ... Knowledge of design, product change and automotive standard and procedures (FMVSS, Euro, NOM, ASME ...

Yanfeng Human Resources

Design Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

The CAD Designer / Engineer's key responsibilities include: 1. Creating new CAD models of future ... Knowledge of design, product change and automotive standard and procedures (FMVSS, Euro, NOM, ASME ...

Marmon

Design Engineer

Bellows Falls, VT · On-site

Who We Are Sonnaxprovides innovative transmission repair products for the automotive aftermarket ... What You'll Do This Design Engineer is responsible for product development and design with a strong ...

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Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

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

As of Aug 17, 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.

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

Securing an entry-level automotive design engineer position can be competitive due to the specialized skills required, such as proficiency in CAD software and understanding of vehicle engineering. Candidates typically need a relevant degree in mechanical or automotive engineering and may benefit from internships or portfolio work to improve their chances.

How to become an entry level automotive design engineer?

To become an entry-level automotive design engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field. Developing skills in CAD software such as CATIA or SolidWorks, gaining internship experience, and understanding vehicle design principles are important steps. Entry-level roles often require strong problem-solving abilities and knowledge of automotive safety and manufacturing standards.
More about Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs

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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:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs look for?

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Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Automotive Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Design Engineer

Neaton Auto Products Manufacturing

Eaton, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Design Engineer 1st ShiftLocation: Eaton, OH 45320Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated Design Engineer to join our team on the 1st shift in Eaton, OH. This role supports the development of automotive safety components with a strong emphasis on program management, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration.

The position is structured as ~20% CAD and ~80% engineering coordination and analysis, including project leadership, test evaluation, and customer interaction. This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer who enjoys working beyond design into execution and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead design projects and program activities from concept through production
  • Perform root cause analysis to resolve design, testing, and manufacturing issues
  • Collaborate closely with customers, manufacturing plants, and internal teams
  • Support test part evaluation, validation activities, and plant floor investigations
  • Apply tolerance stack-up analysis to ensure fit, form, and function
  • Drive value analysis initiatives to reduce cost and eliminate waste
  • Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities
  • Create and deliver clear technical presentations internally and to customers
  • Support the development of plastic injection-molded components
  • Occasional travel to customer and manufacturing locations (~5%)
Required Skills and Qualifications
  • Experience in automotive engineering and/or program management (not required, but preferred)
  • Knowledge of plastic injection molding processes and design considerations (not required, but preferred)
  • Strong root cause analysis and structured problem-solving skills
  • Proficiency with CAD software (moderate use – ~20% of role)
  • Understanding of tolerance analysis (stack-ups) and value engineering principles
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work across diverse teams
  • Ability to interface effectively with customers and internal departments
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially:
    • Excel (data analysis)
    • PowerPoint (presentations)
  • Ability to develop and deliver professional technical presentations
  • Hands-on mindset with willingness to support plant floor activities
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • No programming or automation experience required
Work Environment

This role involves a mix of office, meeting, and plant floor activities, requiring active engagement in cross-functional collaboration and hands-on evaluation of components. The candidate should be comfortable working in a dynamic environment and traveling occasionally to support customers and manufacturing operations.

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