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Part Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer

Middleville, MI · On-site

$25.50 - $35.25/hr

Advanced Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), sheet metal part design, weld assemblies, and plastic part design * PLM/PDM platform experience preferred * Ability to manage time ...

Seat Design & Release Engineer

Novi, MI

$38 - $43.25/hr

Manage part design updates, releases, and engineering changes for performance and manufacturability * Obtain B-Release approvals for seat system components * Support DV/PV testing , validation, and ...

... part design for cost and weight, utilizing benchmarking and CAE tools. 3. Designing sheet metal parts that are feasible for stamping, joining, and hemming. 4. Packaging components within a ...

Design Engineer 5

Southfield, MI · On-site

$91K - $124K/yr

... part design, structural performance, manufacturing technologies, craftsmanship, ergonomics, safety, and homologation requirements • Competency in materials selection, plastic injection molding/DFM ...

POSITION SUMMARY As part of a cross functional Engineering team, the Design Engineer will work throughout the conceptual stage, the design process, the testing phase, and through production launch ...

POSITION SUMMARY As part of a cross functional Engineering team, the Design Engineer will work throughout the conceptual stage, the design process, the testing phase, and through production launch ...

POSITION SUMMARY As part of a cross functional Engineering team, the Design Engineer will work throughout the conceptual stage, the design process, the testing phase, and through production launch ...

Design Engineer - Product

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$128K - $154K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY As part of a cross functional Engineering team, the Design Engineer will work throughout the conceptual stage, the design process, the testing phase, and through production launch ...

Design Engineer - Product

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$128K - $154K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY As part of a cross functional Engineering team, the Design Engineer will work throughout the conceptual stage, the design process, the testing phase, and through production launch ...

Design Engineer - Product

Ann Arbor, MI

$128K - $154K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY As part of a cross functional Engineering team, the Design Engineer will work throughout the conceptual stage, the design process, the testing phase, and through production launch ...

Senior Process Engineer

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

Developing standards and best practices for part design, tool design, and production. * Communicating with vendors, global project teams, and customers to solve any problems encountered during ...

Product Design Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$109K - $164K/yr

... part design for cost and weight, utilizing benchmarking and CAE tools. 3. Designing sheet metal parts that are feasible for stamping, joining, and hemming. 4. Packaging components within a ...

Senior Process Engineer

Traverse City, MI

$103K - $133K/yr

Developing standards and best practices for part design, tool design, and production. * Communicating with vendors, global project teams, and customers to solve any problems encountered during ...

Responsible for developing the part design using a SET based options approach. Throughout the design process, documents the design progression utilizing Kaizen worksheets and A3 analysis. * Provides ...

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Showing results 1-20

Part Design information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$22

$35

How much do part design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for part design in Michigan is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $24.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Part Design vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectPart DesignMechanical Drafter
Primary RoleCreating detailed 3D models and prototypes of individual partsPreparing technical drawings and schematics based on existing designs
Skills & CertificationsCAD software proficiency, engineering knowledge, certifications like SolidWorks or AutoCADDrafting skills, CAD proficiency, understanding of engineering standards
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering departments, manufacturing firmsEngineering firms, manufacturing companies, construction sites
FocusDesign and development of parts from concept to detailed modelsCreating accurate technical drawings for manufacturing and assembly

Part Design involves developing detailed 3D models of individual components, focusing on design and engineering. Mechanical Drafters prepare technical drawings based on these designs, ensuring accurate documentation for manufacturing. While both roles require CAD skills and engineering knowledge, Part Designers focus on creating models, whereas Mechanical Drafters focus on producing detailed drawings for production.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Part Design and how can they be addressed?

In Part Design, common challenges include balancing functionality with manufacturability, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring cross-team collaboration with manufacturing and quality assurance. Designers often need to iterate their models based on feedback from prototyping and testing, which requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Building effective communication with engineers and production teams early in the process helps streamline revisions and reduces costly delays. Staying updated with the latest CAD tools and industry standards also contributes to overcoming these challenges.

What is the highest paid design job?

In design fields, user experience (UX) directors and creative directors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially in large companies or tech industries. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and proficiency with design tools and user research. Salary levels can vary based on location, industry, and individual expertise.

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

To thrive as a Part Designer, you need strong proficiency in mechanical design principles, CAD modeling, and a relevant engineering degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or AutoCAD, as well as knowledge of manufacturing processes and industry standards, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with engineering teams and ensure design accuracy. These skills are crucial for creating manufacturable, high-quality parts that meet performance, safety, and cost requirements.

Is AI replacing designers?

AI is increasingly used in part design to automate repetitive tasks and generate initial concepts, but it does not fully replace human designers. Skilled designers are still essential for creative problem-solving, refining designs, and making aesthetic decisions that require human judgment. AI tools serve as aids to enhance productivity and support the design process rather than replace the need for professional expertise.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A part designer or similar specialized role in manufacturing or engineering can potentially earn $10,000 a month through experience, freelance work, or working for high-paying companies. Success often depends on skills, industry demand, and the ability to work independently or in niche markets, rather than formal education alone.

What is part design?

Part design refers to the process of creating and developing the specifications, geometry, and features of individual components used in products or systems. This often involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed 2D or 3D models, considering factors such as material selection, manufacturability, and assembly requirements. Effective part design helps ensure that components perform their intended functions, are cost-effective to produce, and fit together properly with other parts in the final product.

What is the highest paying career in design?

In design fields, roles such as industrial designers, user experience (UX) directors, and design managers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures with experience and advanced skills. Specialized roles that require technical expertise, leadership, and advanced software knowledge typically offer higher compensation.
CAD Designer

$25.50 - $35.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Bradford White rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Primary Function:
The Designer supports the Design, Development, and Sustaining (Product) Engineering effort by utilizing design tools to perform various activities relating to the physical design, composition, and function of component parts and end products. Responsibilities include technical document management and control, as well as performing a broad range of engineering and product cost analysis.
Responsibilities:
  • Works in a team setting with all departments from Purchasing to Manufacturing, but closest with Engineers, Project Managers, and Lab Technicians
  • Collaborates with engineers to develop robust 3D models and detail drawings of complex mechanical components/assemblies
  • Prepares/creates/revises complex 3D components/assemblies using Autodesk products
  • Applies design for assembly (DFA) and design for manufacturing (DFM) concepts
  • Performs complex tolerance analysis and validation
  • Participates in design review activities
  • Can critique designs for safety, manufacturability, failure modes, customer function
  • Creates prototype components/assemblies for testing and pre-production activities
  • Prepares Engineering Change Orders (ECO's) and other related engineering documentation for new/revised components/assemblies
  • Understands Bills of Materials (BOM's) and creates/changes as needed based on project scope
  • Assist project leaders with costing analysis for new/revised parts and assemblies as needed per the ECO
  • Creative, self-motivated, problem solving, team player with the ability to meet deadlines

Job Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Product Design or Design Technology and 3+ years of experience or an Associate's degree in Drafting/Design Technology and 5+ years of experience
  • Advanced Knowledge of Autodesk products
  • Advanced Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), sheet metal part design, weld assemblies, and plastic part design
  • PLM/PDM platform experience preferred
  • Ability to manage time, work effectively, and self-motivated
  • Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Equal Opportunity Employer
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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