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Trim Development Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

SummaryThe Trim Engineer participates and is responsible for design, development, and implementation of Performance Seats soft trim. This individual will also help plan, design, and direct ...

Manager - Paint and Trim

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$115K - $218K/yr

Ability to lead a team in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment * 5+ years of experience managing teams within design, engineering or manufacturing, experience with trim development, paint ...

Trim Technician

Warren, MI

$14 - $17/hr

Actively participating in mentoring Trim shop team members and assisting in the development and occasional demonstration of new trimming practices and procedures. Major Duties and Responsibilities

Trim Technician

Warren, MI · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Actively participating in mentoring Trim shop team members and assisting in the development and occasional demonstration of new trimming practices and procedures. Major Duties and Responsibilities

Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace, Materials or related). * 5-8 years of experience in instrument panel, floor console, and decorative trim development. * Proven ...

The Trim Engineer leads the development of one or more trim programs, providing direction and follow up to staff and customer business units. Works closely with Principal Engineer or Chief Trim ...

Leads trim product development for a seating business unit. * Leads trim design reviews and open issues meetings. * Ensures trim best practices and processes are applied appropriately. * Reviews and ...

Leads trim product development for a seating business unit. * Leads trim design reviews and open issues meetings. * Ensures trim best practices and processes are applied appropriately. * Reviews and ...

Leads trim product development for a seating business unit. * Leads trim design reviews and open issues meetings. * Ensures trim best practices and processes are applied appropriately. * Reviews and ...

The Role The Trim Technician in Creative Design partners with Design Fabrication , Creative Design ... provide actionable developmental feedback to others. What Will Give You A Competitive Edge ...

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Trim Development information

See Michigan salary details

$36.2K

$60.3K

$88K

How much do trim development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for trim development in Michigan is $60,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,700.00 and $69,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trim development specialist, and why are they important?

Thriving as a Trim Development Specialist requires expertise in textile materials, garment construction, and quality standards, often supported by a degree in fashion, textiles, or a related field. Familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems, technical specification software, and knowledge of sourcing regulations is typically necessary. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with suppliers and cross-functional teams. These abilities ensure that trims meet design requirements, quality benchmarks, and production timelines in the fashion and apparel industry.

What is the difference between Trim Development vs Trim Technician?

AspectTrim DevelopmentTrim Technician
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training or certification in automotive or furniture trim designUsually needs technical training or certification in trim installation or repair
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, manufacturing plants, or R&D labsWorkshops, manufacturing lines, or repair shops
Industry UsageUsed in automotive, furniture, and interior design industries for developing trim conceptsInvolved in installing, repairing, or maintaining trim components

Trim Development focuses on designing and creating new trim components, often requiring creative and technical skills. In contrast, Trim Technicians implement, install, or repair trim parts in manufacturing or repair settings. Both roles are essential in the trim industry but differ in their focus and responsibilities.

What is trim development?

Trim development is a specialized area within the fashion and apparel industry focused on designing, sourcing, and producing the trims and accessories used in garments, such as buttons, zippers, labels, and ribbons. Professionals in trim development work closely with designers, suppliers, and production teams to ensure trims meet quality, cost, and design specifications. Their responsibilities often include researching new materials, managing sample approvals, and overseeing the production process to ensure timely delivery. Trim development is essential for both the aesthetic and functional aspects of finished clothing and accessories.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in trim development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Trim Development often encounter challenges such as balancing design aesthetics with manufacturing feasibility and cost constraints. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—like design, engineering, and suppliers—can be complex due to varying priorities and timelines. Staying updated with material innovations and sustainability requirements is also crucial. To address these challenges, strong project management skills, proactive communication, and continuous learning about new materials and technologies are essential.
What are popular job titles related to Trim Development jobs in Michigan? For Trim Development jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Trim Development job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,308 per year, or $29 per hour.

Trim Engineer

Performance Seats

Clinton Township, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

SummaryThe Trim Engineer participates and is responsible for design, development, and implementation of Performance Seats soft trim. This individual will also help plan, design, and direct Performance Seats engineering trim programs. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Responsible for product /program execution of engineering specifications, guidelines, customer & industrial requirements, governmental regulations, customer expectations, etc.Understanding of TPDM (Trim Product Data Management) or Equivalent, for all Program ID's, Sewing Components/Materials and miscellaneous. Trim BOM Creation and Color Matrix Maintenance/Updates.Knowledgeable in Optitex PDS patterning or Equivalent and Marker creation.Work closely with OEM design studios to ensure Performance Seats design/styling themes and specifications are met.Order and manage - including inventory - soft trim development materials for all programs and sample shop equipment and tools.Phase 1 support: provide initial costing analysis & quoting support of the soft trim components and sub-assemblies. Participate to help define requirements to meet SOW, engineering deliverables, project timing, project team support, and necessary budget. Support foam A-Surface design & development to meet Performance Seats seating design, comfort and styling.Understand Performance Seats design specifications, DNA, and philosophy.Review all design information and drawings - inputs - to verify completeness to meet project tasks and deliverables - outputs.Responsible to create and maintain trim DFMEA, DVP&R, and other related APQP /PAP documents.Maintain sew specifications and appearance guidelines for all Performance Seats cut & sew soft trim parts and assemblies.Responsible for product execution of engineering specifications, guidelines, customer & industrial requirements, governmental regulations, customer expectations, etc. Develop bill of materials (prototype & production), tooling requirements, determine internal and external project specifications, understand legal and regulatory requirements.Responsible to create and release trim cover drawings, paper and digitized pattern development. Perform basic to complex automotive cut & sew construction techniques ensuring Performance Seats sew standards, methods, and themes; Selection of top cover materials and identify appropriate lamination, retainers, & attachment strategy. Determine material usage, scrap rates and trim cover bill of materials.Support manufacturing engineers in sewing process and sewing layout.Support: Troubleshooting & problem resolution per complaint management process.Document / support styling properties and concept trim cover development; Seat measurements (including H' Point) and reporting /Test sample build coordination.Performance Seats fitments / applications: 1-off-installation & measurement support / Benchmarking & teardown.Embroidery - Logo development.Manufacturing feasibility, support production + supplier training and auditingEngage in continuous learning and professional development to maintain current knowledge within the field to meet required compliance and regulatory job requirements Adhere to all Health, Safety and Environmental standards and procedures. Participate in investigations and 8D process as needed.Report occupational injuries, illnesses and accidents. Report hazardous, unsafe and unhealthy conditions.Understands, supports, and contributes to Performance Seats Total Quality Management, Quality (ISO/TS 16949), and Environmental Management (ISO14000) Systems by following approved policies and procedures.Trim engineering phase deliverables include: Trim Development timing (define trim freeze dates)Trim eBOM (include preliminary usage and utilization rates)Trim Patterns (creation and development)Master Appearance Samples (seat complete & master covers) Trim Patterns /Drawings Trim CSOTrim Specifications /RequirementsRetainer /Attachment ConceptPerforms other duties as assigned Education and/or Experience 4-year degree Trim Engineering, Materials Engineering or Industrial Engineering.6 Years of trim engineering experience preferredKnowledge and practical application with Foam Skiving and A' surface management. Ensure comfort, design intent, and manufacturability experience preferred /Paper and digitized pattern developmentBasic knowledge of hand tools used to assemble seat complete.Knowledge and practical application of Automotive Cut & Sew construction techniques, Materials and Lamination selection, retainer and proper attachment methods.Familiar with DVP&R, DFMEA, DFM/A, 8-D, APQP, PPAP, Benchmarking, VA/VE, GD&T, AutoCad, CATIA V5Familiar with ISO/TS16949 quality & ISO 14000 requirements and procedures.Familiar with 5S processes and reporting requirementsTravel as neededMust perform a sew test onsite during onsite interview Communication SkillsMust demonstrate strong leadership and supervisory abilityMust demonstrate strong verbal and written skills as well as the ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees, customers, and managementStrong ability to manage time effectively along with strong organizational and presentation skills Computer Skills Proficient knowledge of MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Regularly required to stand, walk, talk and hear along with frequent use of hands and fingers to reach, pull and grasp, frequent grasping and stooping throughout the day.Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.Visual acuity to read instructions, operate a computer, operate machinery, and inspect products produced.Work EnvironmentThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future. Performance Seats Clinton Inc./ Performance Seats Spartanburg LLC will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa).