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Senior Automotive Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Senior Automotive Designer information

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$131K

How much do senior automotive designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automotive designer in the United States is $105,882.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Automotive Designer vs Automotive Designer?

AspectSenior Automotive DesignerAutomotive Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Automotive Design, or related field; 3+ years experienceBachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Automotive Design, or related field; entry-level to 2 years experience
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, automotive manufacturers, R&D departmentsDesign studios, automotive companies, freelance projects
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by automotive companies for experienced rolesUsed by automotive companies for entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Senior Automotive Designer and an Automotive Designer lies in experience and responsibility. Senior Automotive Designers typically have more years of experience, lead design projects, and contribute to strategic design decisions. Automotive Designers are often in the early stages of their careers, focusing on executing design concepts under supervision. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the senior role demands a higher level of expertise and leadership within the automotive industry.

What are some typical collaboration practices for Senior Automotive Designers within multidisciplinary teams?

Senior Automotive Designers frequently collaborate with engineers, product managers, and marketing teams to ensure that vehicle designs are both aesthetically appealing and technically feasible. They often participate in cross-functional meetings, contribute to design reviews, and provide feedback on prototypes. Effective communication and the ability to integrate feedback from multiple departments are essential, as the design must meet safety, manufacturing, and market requirements. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and allows designers to see their concepts evolve from sketches to production models.

What does a Senior Automotive Designer do?

A Senior Automotive Designer leads the creative process of conceptualizing, designing, and developing the exterior and interior of vehicles. They work closely with engineers, product managers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the designs are not only visually appealing but also functional, safe, and manufacturable. In addition to sketching and modeling, Senior Automotive Designers often mentor junior designers and oversee the entire design process from initial concept to final production. Their role involves staying updated with industry trends and integrating new technologies and materials into their designs.

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

To thrive as a Senior Automotive Designer, you need advanced skills in automotive design, 3D modeling, and a degree in industrial or transportation design. Expertise in industry-standard tools like Autodesk Alias, CATIA, and Adobe Creative Suite, along with a strong portfolio, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for developing innovative, functional, and aesthetically appealing vehicles that meet both client and market demands.

What is the highest salary for a car designer?

Senior automotive designers can earn salaries up to $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and work at major automakers or luxury brands. Top earners often have a strong portfolio, industry recognition, and may work in senior or lead design roles.
What cities are hiring for Senior Automotive Designer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Automotive Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Designer jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Automotive Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Automotive Designer jobs include:
Senior Automotive Designer jobs near you

Senior Exterior Automotive Designer

Mercedes-Benz R&D North America

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

$105K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

At Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America (MBRDNA), we are committed to delivering world-class automotive technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible. Our teams of highly skilled engineers and designers use cutting-edge software and technology, to enhance the driving experience and reduce environmental impact.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Exterior Automotive Designer to join the Advanced Exterior Design Team located in Carlsbad, CA. This is an opportunity to shape the future of Mercedes-Benz vehicles by contributing to Advanced and Production Design projects, crafting cutting-edge exterior concepts, and driving innovation that aligns with the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Create compelling and innovative vehicle concepts, from ideation to final presentation.
  • Develop high-quality 2D sketches, rendering, and tape drawings to visualize and communicate creative ideas.
  • Translate 2D concepts into 3D clay scale and hard modeling, working closely with modelers and engineers.
  • Conduct market and design trend research to benchmark competitors and anticipate future automotive aesthetics.
  • Present design proposals to internal teams and leadership using advanced rendering and visualization techniques.
  • Stay current with emerging automotive technologies, materials, and sustainable design trends.
  • Support higher level Designers and Modelers to foster creativity.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Automotive Design, Transportation Design, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in an automotive design studio with a strong exterior design portfolio.
  • Exceptional sketching, rendering, and visualization skills.
  • Strong understanding of automotive architecture, aerodynamics, and engineering principles.
  • Proficiency in CAD tools.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented studio environment.
  • Strong communication and presentations skills.
  • Proven ability to lead at all levels and take on managerial responsibilities as needed.
  • Willingness to travel (10-25%) domestically and internationally as needed.
  • Frequent use of speech, vision, hearing, use of hands for computer use, taping models and presentations. Frequent sitting, standing and reaching with hands.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • CAD Proficiency.
  • Minimum 5 years of professional design experience in an automotive design studio.

The successful candidate's starting pay will be determined based on a wide range of factors, including, but not limited to, job-related education, skills, and experience, geographic location, and market conditions. The current salary range for this position is as follows and may be modified in the future: $120,000 - $150,000.
Why should you apply?
Here at MBRDNA, you create digital ecosystems around cars, you design a language between humans and machines, you make a car even more intelligent - you make the new reality for cars. MBRDNA was honored as one of the "Best Places to Work" by BuiltIn in January 2024, a testament to our commitment to creating an exceptional work environment. At each of our offices, we foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring every team member can thrive and innovate.
Benefits for Full-Time* Employees Include:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families
• 401(k) with employer match
• Up to 15 company-paid holidays
• Paid time off (flexible time off for salaried employees), sick time, and parental leave
• Tuition assistance program
• Wellness/Fitness reimbursement programs
* Internships & Contractors excluded from Full-Time Employee benefits
MBRDNA is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and strongly supports diversity in the workforce. MBRDNA only accepts resumes from approved agencies who have a valid Agency Agreement on file. Please do not forward resumes to our applicant tracking system, MBRDNA employees, or send to any MBRDNA location. MBRDNA is not responsible for any fees or claims related to receipt of unsolicited resumes.
Mercedes-Benz Research and Development North America, Inc.
PRIVACY NOTICE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS
https://mbrdna.com/california-employee-privacy-notice/

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