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Product Design Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Product Design Engineer

Monroe, MI

$119K - $143K/yr

Conduct benchmarking of products produced by competitive suppliers and OEM's not supplied by Midway. * Assist in the design and development of special testing machines. * Participates in customer ...

Product Design Engineer

Monroe, MI · On-site

$119K - $143K/yr

Conduct benchmarking of products produced by competitive suppliers and OEM's not supplied by Midway. * Assist in the design and development of special testing machines. * Participates in customer ...

Fully In-Person (Holland, MI) & Full-time SUMMARY Assist the Design Team in building prototype ... Ensure workmanship of the highest quality standards, while meeting productivity goals.

Staff Product Design Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$123K - $148K/yr

The Staff Product Design Engineer acts as the subject matter expert related to product design ... Master Records (DMR's). * Assist in maintaining Food & Drug Administration (FDA), Good ...

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Showing results 1-20

Product Design Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$28.3K

$167.2K

$213.1K

How much do product design assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for product design assistant in Michigan is $167,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $212,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Product Design Assistant do?

A Product Design Assistant supports the product design team in developing new products or enhancing existing ones. Their tasks often include creating sketches or prototypes, conducting research on materials and trends, preparing presentation materials, and assisting with administrative duties. They collaborate closely with designers, engineers, and marketing teams to ensure ideas are accurately translated from concept to production. This entry-level role is ideal for those looking to gain hands-on experience in the design process while learning from experienced professionals.

Is AI replacing product designers?

AI is transforming the role of product design assistants by automating repetitive tasks and supporting data analysis, but it does not replace the need for human creativity, user empathy, and strategic thinking. Product designers continue to focus on user experience, innovation, and problem-solving, often using AI tools to enhance their work. The role remains essential for guiding design direction and ensuring products meet user needs.

What is a design assistant's salary?

A product design assistant's salary typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those in high-cost areas can earn more. Skills in design tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma can influence compensation.

What are some common challenges faced by Product Design Assistants when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Product Design Assistants often work closely with graphic designers, engineers, marketers, and product managers. A common challenge is balancing input from multiple stakeholders while ensuring the design vision remains consistent and practical. Managing feedback, prioritizing tasks, and adapting to shifting project requirements are key aspects of the role. Strong communication and organization skills help Product Design Assistants navigate these challenges and contribute effectively to the team's success.

What is the difference between Product Design Assistant vs Product Designer?

AspectProduct Design AssistantProduct Designer
CredentialsTypically a degree in design, art, or related field; entry-level experienceAdvanced degree or extensive experience in product design
Work EnvironmentSupports design teams, assists with research, sketches, and prototypesLeads design projects, creates concepts, and finalizes product designs
Industry UsageCommon in tech, manufacturing, and consumer goods companiesSenior roles in similar industries, often overseeing design teams

The Product Design Assistant role is an entry-level position supporting product design teams with research, sketches, and prototypes. In contrast, the Product Designer takes the lead on creating and finalizing product concepts. While both roles require design knowledge, the assistant focuses on support tasks, whereas the designer handles core design responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Product Design Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Design Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of design principles, proficiency in design software (such as Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch), and often a relevant degree or coursework in design. Familiarity with prototyping tools, CAD software, and digital asset management systems is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with design teams and contribute original ideas. These skills are essential for supporting the design process, ensuring design quality, and facilitating smooth project workflows.

What is the highest paid product design job?

Senior roles such as Lead Product Designer, Design Director, or Head of Product Design tend to have the highest salaries in product design, often exceeding $150,000 annually depending on experience, location, and company size. Executive-level positions like Chief Design Officer can earn significantly more, especially in large tech firms or corporations with extensive design teams.

What do production design assistants do?

Production design assistants support the production design team by organizing and managing design materials, preparing set layouts, and assisting with visual concepts. They often use design software like AutoCAD or Photoshop and coordinate with other departments to ensure the visual elements align with the project's vision.
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Design jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Product Design jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Product Design Assistant job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $167,226 per year, or $80.4 per hour.
Product Design Engineer

$119K - $143K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Midway Products Group rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

  • Design, develop and improve new or existing products and directs the building and testing of prototypes. Does not have direct supervisory responsibility, but directs the work of a CAD Designer and assists Manufacturing Engineering as required.
  • The Product Design Engineer has external contacts with customer and vendors in the development of designs, to resolve problems and to provide prototypes.

 ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Originates and/or develops designs for products relating to defined customer needs or as possible proprietary items. This also may include the adaptation of existing designs to new customer applications.
  • Conduct benchmarking of products produced by competitive suppliers and OEM's not supplied by Midway.
  • Assist in the design and development of special testing machines.
  • Participates in customer prototype builds for evaluation of parts during assembly and resolution of build issues as required.
  • Plan and direct the construction of prototypes to meet customer and internal requirements
  • Responsible for the timely release of drawings to prototype source/manufacturing as required to meet program required dates.
  • Establish test requirements if not previously specified by the customer and develops and directs the testing of new-product prototypes to verify product reliability.
  • Responsible for redesign of product to resolve product problems or production difficulties.
  • Assist Manufacturing Engineering during Design Project to ensure manufacturing feasibility.
  • Initiate, recommend or provide solutions through designated channels.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by the reporting Product Design Manager.

    SPECIAL SKILLS

    • Computer literate including Microsoft Office, CAD Design Tools and FEA Applications
    • Mechanically inclined and able to use ingenuity and imagination to innovatively solve design and production problems
    • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

    JOB QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
    • Prefer 10 years of automotive experience.

     WORKING CONDITIONS

    • Normal office environment
    • Normal shop environment, which includes travel to plant sites; use of personal protection equipment; hazards and conditions typically associated with a manufacturing environment.

    What Midway Products Group employees say

    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

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