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Trim Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Summary The Trim Engineer participates and is responsible for design, development, and implementation of Company's soft trim. This individual will also help plan, design, and direct Company ...

Trim Engineer

Clinton, MI · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Summary The 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 ...

Summary The Trim Engineer participates and is responsible for design, development, and implementation of Company's soft trim. This individual will also help plan, design, and direct Company ...

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 ...

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 ...

Senior Exterior Trim Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Exterior Trim Engineer to join Yora for an exciting assignment within the automotive industry in the US. Location: California or Michigan - On-site Insights from the team ...

SUMMARY The Trim Engineering Manager manages the trim design and processes for a seating business unit. Provides technical leadership, develops the technical skills and knowledge and provides ...

Mgr Trim Engineering

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

The Trim Engineering Manager manages the trim design and processes for a seating business unit. Provides technical leadership, develops the technical skills and knowledge and provides technical ...

SUMMARY The Senior Trim Engineering Manager manages the trim design and processes for a seating business unit. Provides technical leadership, develops the technical skills and knowledge and provides ...

Sr Mgr Trim Engineering

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The Senior Trim Engineering Manager manages the trim design and processes for a seating business unit. Provides technical leadership, develops the technical skills and knowledge and provides ...

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Trim Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$22K

$70.9K

$118.6K

How much do trim engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for trim engineer in Michigan is $70,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,472.00 and $74,644.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trim engineer?

Trim Engineers are professionals in the automotive or aerospace industries who specialize in designing, developing, and overseeing the installation of interior and exterior trim components of vehicles or aircraft. Their responsibilities include selecting materials, ensuring proper fit and finish, and collaborating with other engineering teams to meet safety, aesthetic, and functional standards. They play a key role in enhancing customer comfort, vehicle ergonomics, and overall product quality.

What are some common challenges faced by trim engineers during the vehicle development process?

Trim Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing design aesthetics with manufacturability and cost targets, ensuring material durability, and meeting stringent safety and comfort standards. Coordinating closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams is essential, especially when integrating new materials or features into interiors. Additionally, managing supplier timelines and navigating changes in project specifications can require strong project management and communication skills.

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

To thrive as a Trim Engineer, you need expertise in automotive design, materials engineering, and manufacturing processes, often supported by a degree in mechanical or automotive engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA or Siemens NX), PLM systems, and industry-specific quality standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in cross-functional teams and manage complex design iterations. These skills ensure the development of high-quality, functional, and aesthetically pleasing interior and exterior vehicle components that meet safety and cost requirements.

What is the difference between Trim Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectTrim EngineerStructural Engineer
Primary FocusDesign and installation of interior and exterior trim componentsDesign and analysis of building structures like beams, columns, and frameworks
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in civil or mechanical engineering, certifications in construction or carpentryRequires a degree in civil or structural engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, interior design projectsArchitectural firms, construction sites, engineering consulting
Industry UsageConstruction, carpentry, interior finishingConstruction, infrastructure, building design

While both roles are involved in construction projects, a Trim Engineer specializes in trim components and finishing details, whereas a Structural Engineer focuses on the integrity and safety of building frameworks. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right professional for specific project needs.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Trim Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Trim Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Trim Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,910 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Participate in the design, development, and implementation of the company's soft trim.

  • Support product and program execution by managing engineering specifications, guidelines, and requirements.

  • Create and maintain trim patterns, drawings, and related documentation, including trim BOMs and color matrices.


Job description

Summary

The Trim Engineer participates and is responsible for design, development, and implementation of Company's soft trim. This individual will also help plan, design, and direct Company's 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 Company's 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 Company's seating design, comfort and styling.
  • Understand Company's 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 Company's 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 Company's 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.
  • Company's fitments / applications: 1-off-installation & measurement support / Benchmarking & teardown.
  • Embroidery - Logo development.
  • Manufacturing feasibility, support production + supplier training and auditing
  • Engage 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 Company's 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 CSO
  • Trim Specifications /Requirements
  • Retainer /Attachment Concept


Education and/or Experience

  • 4-year degree Trim Engineering, Materials Engineering or Industrial Engineering.
  • 6 Years of trim engineering experience preferred
  • Knowledge and practical application with Foam Skiving and A' surface management. Ensure comfort, design intent, and manufacturability experience preferred /Paper and digitized pattern development
  • Basic 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 V5
  • Familiar with ISO/TS16949 quality & ISO 14000 requirements and procedures.
  • Familiar with 5S processes and reporting requirements
  • Travel as needed
  • Must perform a sew test onsite during onsite interview


Communication Skills

  • Must demonstrate strong leadership and supervisory ability
  • Must demonstrate strong verbal and written skills as well as the ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees, customers, and management
  • Strong ability to manage time effectively along with strong organizational and presentation skills


Computer Skills

  • Proficient knowledge of MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint