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Senior Automotive Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Senior Exterior Trim Engineer

Southfield, MI ยท On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Do you want to take automotive components from concept all the way to production? Are you ... We are looking for a Senior Exterior Trim Engineer to join Yora for an exciting assignment within ...

Senior Lead Engineer

Battle Creek, MI ยท On-site

$100K - $170K/yr

About the Role The Lead/Senior Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in the design, development ... The ideal candidate will have strong automotive design experience and the ability to work closely ...

Senior Lead Engineer

Battle Creek, MI ยท On-site

$100K - $170K/yr

About the Role The Lead/Senior Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in the design, development ... The ideal candidate will have strong automotive design experience and the ability to work closely ...

Senior Lead Engineer

Battle Creek, MI ยท On-site

$100K - $170K/yr

About the Role The Lead/Senior Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in the design, development ... The ideal candidate will have strong automotive design experience and the ability to work closely ...

Senior Steering Wheel Engineer

Southfield, MI ยท On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Do you want to take ownership of a safety-critical automotive system from early concept all the way ... We are looking for a Senior Steering Wheel Engineer to join Yora for an exciting assignment within ...

Senior Automotive Hardware Architect

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

Support HW Engineering group during advanced design phases, system architecture definitions and ECU ... Drive the HW architecture decision for the next Stellantis automotive computing system/hardware ...

Support HW Engineering group during advanced design phases, system architecture definitions and ECU ... Drive the HW architecture decision for the next Stellantis automotive computing system/hardware ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Automotive Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$51.9K

$110.3K

$159.9K

How much do senior automotive engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automotive engineer in Michigan is $110,306.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,100.00 and $125,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior automotive engineer do?

A Senior Automotive Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and improving vehicles and their systems. They lead engineering teams, oversee the testing of prototypes, and ensure that automotive designs meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. Senior Automotive Engineers also collaborate with other departments, manage project timelines and budgets, and mentor junior engineers. Their expertise helps bring innovative and efficient vehicles to market.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior automotive engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Automotive Engineer, you need strong expertise in automotive design, engineering principles, and a relevant degree such as mechanical or automotive engineering, often supplemented by several years of industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of regulatory standards are typically required, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) being advantageous. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills to excel in project management and cross-functional collaboration. These skills ensure innovative solutions, adherence to safety and quality standards, and successful project delivery in the competitive automotive industry.

How does a senior automotive engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a vehicle development project?

Senior Automotive Engineers frequently work with cross-functional teams, including designers, software developers, manufacturing specialists, and quality assurance experts. They often lead technical discussions, ensure that engineering requirements are understood across departments, and facilitate problem-solving when challenges arise in the development process. This collaborative environment helps integrate various disciplines to achieve project goals, meet safety and regulatory standards, and deliver innovative solutions. Effective communication and leadership are key to successfully navigating these collaborations.

What is the difference between Senior Automotive Engineer vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectSenior Automotive EngineerAutomotive Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Industrial Design Engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, testing facilities, manufacturing plantsDesign studios, CAD labs, prototype workshops
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, suppliers, R&D centersAutomotive OEMs, design firms, engineering consultancies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Senior Automotive Engineer and an Automotive Design Engineer lies in their focus areas. Senior Automotive Engineers typically oversee vehicle systems, testing, and integration, while Automotive Design Engineers concentrate on creating vehicle aesthetics and conceptual designs. Both roles require engineering backgrounds, but their daily tasks and specializations differ significantly.

What type of senior automotive engineers make the most money?

Senior automotive engineers specializing in advanced powertrain systems, autonomous vehicle technology, or electric vehicle development tend to earn the highest salaries. Engineers with expertise in software integration, systems engineering, and those holding professional certifications or advanced degrees often command higher compensation due to their specialized skills and industry demand.

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

The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Automotive Engineer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Automotive Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Senior Automotive Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Senior Automotive Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Automotive Engineer job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,306 per year, or $53 per hour.

Senior Automotive Structures Design & Release Engineer

HTC Global Services, Inc.

Dearborn, MI โ€ข On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Senior Automotive Structures Design & Release Engineer

Location: Dearborn (MI) | Employment Type: Full Time - 40 hours per week | Job Level: T3 | Work Preference: Hybrid | Job Code: 244798

Job Description: Senior Automotive Structures Design & Release Engineer Overview / Summary

We are seeking an experienced Structures Design & Release Engineer to lead design engineering activities from pre-program through vehicle launch. The engineer will be responsible for developing automotive sheet metal components and upper body structures that meet customer, manufacturing, regulatory, durability, cost, weight, and timing requirements.

The role focuses on upper body sheet metal, including roof panels and roof ditch, A/B/C/D pillar inner and outer structures, and quarter panel and bodyside upper sheet metal.

Key Responsibilities

Lead structural design activities from pre-program through vehicle launch.

Develop component designs that meet customer requirements and vehicle manufacturing requirements.

Understand structural design requirements related to vehicle attributes, including FMVSS, NVH, and safety.

Lead Purchasing, Finance, and Cost Estimating activities related to supplier selection and program targets.

Interface with engineers responsible for surrounding components and systems, including seats and electrical systems.

Create and release 3-D CAD designs that meet system design requirements.

Support supplier and CAE testing of structural and closure designs prior to tooling.

Support tooling kickoff, supplier part manufacturing, part layout, and part testing.

Lead prototype vehicle-level build support for structures.

Manage final engineering sign-off and production vehicle launch activities.

Design, develop, and release automotive sheet metal components from concept through production.

Create and review CAD geometry and support stamping feasibility.

Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing teams.

Resolve quality concerns and support competitive benchmarking studies.

Manage engineering changes while meeting cost, weight, timing, and durability requirements.

Develop upper body structures to meet roof crush, side impact, durability, and stiffness targets.

Conduct CAE correlation reviews and optimize reinforcement strategies.

Work with safety and attribute teams to develop roof and pillar structures that meet regulatory and vehicle performance requirements.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Structures Design & Release Engineer.

Experience designing, developing, and releasing automotive sheet metal components from concept through production.

Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Working knowledge of CATIA V5/V6 and/or 3DX CAD.

Experience with automotive body structure development.

Understanding of vehicle body structural performance requirements.

Experience with roof crush, side impact, durability, and stiffness requirements.

Experience performing CAE correlation reviews.

Experience working with safety and attribute teams.

Experience applying DMAIC and DFSS principles.

Experience reviewing and signing off on component drawings and gauging practices.

Experience applying 8D, fishbone, and DOE problem-solving methodologies.

Experience creating Boundary Diagrams, P-Diagrams, DFMEA, and SCCAFs.

Experience reviewing CAE models and CAD drawings.

Experience leading design reviews based on Failure Mode Avoidance.

Experience maintaining DVP&R and signing off on DV tests, including FMVSS requirements.

Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Experience executing threaded fastener joint designs and tests.

What Makes HTC A Great Place To Build Your Future

HTC Global Services wants you to join our team. Come build new things with us and advance your career. At HTC Global, youโ€™ll collaborate with experts, work alongside clients, and be part of high-performing teams driving success together. Youโ€™ll have long-term opportunities to grow your career and develop skills in the latest emerging technologies.

At HTC Global Services, our employees have access to a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits can include Group Health (Medical, Dental, and Vision), Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, 401(k) matching, Group Life and Disability insurance, Professional Development opportunities, Wellness programs, and a variety of other perks.

Our success as a company is built on inclusion and diversity. HTC Global Services is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, where every employee is treated with dignity and respect. We celebrate differences and believe that diverse cultures, perspectives, and skills drive innovation and success. HTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a proud National Minority Supplier. We seek to empower each individual, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, included, and respected.

At HTC Global Services, our culture is an embodiment of who we are โ€“ a value-led organization committed to success of our people and customers.

  • Hybrid and Workplace flexibility
  • Work-Life-Balance
  • Well-defined career development plan
  • Rewards & Recognition program
  • L&D focuses on upskilling
  • Hands-on experience on Emerging Technologies and Digital Transformation
  • Career Mobility programs
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