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Vehicle Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Specter Aerospace

Vehicle Design Engineer II

Peabody, MA · On-site

$84K - $114K/yr

Specter Aerospace is seeking a Vehicle Design Engineer II to join our growing design team. In this role, you will contribute to the development of components and systems for hypersonic flight ...

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Vehicle Design information

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$61K

$131.6K

$156.5K

How much do vehicle design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for vehicle design in the United States is $131,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is vehicle design?

Vehicle design is the process of creating the appearance, structure, and functionality of automobiles and other vehicles. This field combines elements of engineering, aesthetics, ergonomics, and technology to develop vehicles that are safe, efficient, and visually appealing. Vehicle designers work on both the exterior and interior aspects, considering factors like aerodynamics, materials, safety features, and user experience. The goal is to create vehicles that meet performance standards while also appealing to consumer preferences and regulatory requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vehicle designer?

To thrive as a Vehicle Designer, you need strong skills in automotive engineering principles, 3D modeling, and a degree in industrial or transportation design. Proficiency with CAD software such as CATIA, SolidWorks, or Alias, and familiarity with prototyping tools and industry standards, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills that set top designers apart. These skills and qualifications enable the creation of innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing vehicles that meet safety and market demands.

How does a vehicle design professional typically collaborate with engineers and other departments during a project?

Vehicle Design professionals work closely with engineers, marketing teams, and manufacturing specialists throughout the design process. They participate in cross-functional meetings to ensure that creative concepts meet technical requirements, safety standards, and market needs. Regular feedback sessions and collaborative problem-solving are common, as design ideas must often be adapted to address engineering constraints or manufacturing capabilities. This collaborative environment helps ensure that the final vehicle design is both aesthetically appealing and feasible to produce.

What is the difference between Vehicle Design vs Automotive Engineering?

AspectVehicle DesignAutomotive Engineering
Primary FocusCreating the aesthetic and ergonomic aspects of vehiclesDeveloping the technical and functional systems of vehicles
Required SkillsDesign software, creativity, understanding of ergonomicsMechanical engineering, systems integration, technical analysis
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, CAD labs, collaborative teamsResearch labs, manufacturing plants, testing facilities
Common EmployersAutomotive manufacturers, design consultanciesAutomotive companies, engineering firms, R&D centers

Vehicle Design focuses on the visual and user experience aspects of vehicles, emphasizing aesthetics and ergonomics. Automotive Engineering involves technical development, systems integration, and ensuring vehicle performance and safety. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets.

How do I get a job designing vehicles?

To pursue a career in vehicle design, you typically need a bachelor's degree in automotive design, industrial design, or mechanical engineering. Building a strong portfolio, gaining experience with CAD software like CATIA or SolidWorks, and understanding automotive engineering principles are essential steps. Internships and networking within the automotive industry can also improve job prospects.

How hard is it to get a job in vehicle design?

Securing a job in vehicle design can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree in industrial design, mechanical engineering, or automotive engineering, along with strong skills in CAD software and a portfolio of design work. Entry-level positions may be accessible with internships or co-op experience, but advancing typically requires building a solid portfolio and industry experience.

What degree do I need to be a vehicle designer?

A vehicle designer typically needs a bachelor's degree in industrial design, automotive design, transportation design, or a related field. Strong skills in 3D modeling software, such as Alias or Rhino, and a portfolio demonstrating design work are also important for entry into the profession.
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What cities are hiring for Vehicle Design jobs?

Cities with the most Vehicle Design job openings:

What states have the most Vehicle Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Vehicle Design jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Vehicle Design jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Vehicle Design jobs are:

Vehicle Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,574 per year, or $63.3 per hour.

Vehicle Design Engineer II

Alvar Financial Services Limited

Peabody, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

Specter Aerospace is seeking a Vehicle Design EngineerIIto join ourgrowingdesign team. In this role, you will contribute to the development of components and systems for hypersonic flight vehicles, taking ownership ofmechanicalsubsystems andall up vehicles. The ideal candidate is a motivated engineer with a strong passion for aerospace and hands-on design work.


About Specter Aerospace:

Specter Aerospace is building the next generation of hypersonic vehicles for defense applications. Specter is headquartered in Peabody, MA, just north of Boston, where it leverages its advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop supersonic and hypersonic systems. Funded by a mix of government R&D organizations, commercial customers, and private funding, Specter is a growing aerospace and defense startup. Specter is expanding its team in preparation for flight testing and full-scale production.


Role & Responsibilities:

  • Work in afast-paced environment, designing systems and parts for hypersonic flight vehicles
  • Be the Responsible Engineer for a complete hypersonic vehicle and/or major systems on a vehicle
  • Perform preliminary analysisat the component and system level
  • Perform architecture/concept trade studies forvehicle/mechanicalsystems
  • Create drawings for manufacturing release
  • Ownership of vehiclesystems
  • Analysis of components within a flight vehicle
  • Work between disciplines toefficiently design and optimize novel flight systems to meet internal and customer performance requirements
  • Integrate subsystems intobiggersystems ensuring fit and functionality


Job Requirements:

  • Bachelor'sdegreeinmechanical or aerospace engineering,or relatedfields
  • 3+ years of prior professional workexperience
  • Proficiencyusing CADsoftwarewith a PLM platform(SolidWorks preferred)
  • Comfort with project autonomy and fast-paced work environments
  • Strong collaborative skills and a drive to produce quality work
  • Fundamental understanding of mechanical engineering principles (statics,dynamics,materials, thermo/fluids, etc...)
  • Available for up to 10% travel for test activities
  • Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)


Desired Skills:

  • Previous hands-on experience in a technical shop, lab, or a student organization
  • Familiarity with GD&T
  • Prior aerospaceexperience
  • Prior FEA/CFD experience
  • Familiarity with DFM/DFAM


EEO Statement:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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