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Vehicle Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Mercor

Vehicle Design Specialist - AI Trainer

Detroit, MI · On-site +1

$1.1K - $1.4K/wk

Expertise in vehicle or subsystem design, CAE/CAD/simulation engineering , manufacturing/process engineering, or quality engineering. * Day-to-day use of ANSYS Fluent / STAR-CCM+ , Siemens Opcenter ...

eShocan

BENG5 DRE Exterior

Troy, MI · On-site

$37.75 - $43/hr

Be an integral part of an energetic team that's challenging the status quo of vehicle design. * Responsible for the design and development of exterior components and assemblies. * Develop and ...

eShocan

BENG8 DRE SUV Exterior

Troy, MI · On-site

$37.75 - $43/hr

Be an integral part of an energetic team that's challenging the status quo of vehicle design. * Responsible for the design and development of exterior components and assemblies. * Develop and ...

Venteon

Design Release Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$135K/yr

BSME or similar degree * 8+ years of vehicle design in interior or exterior trim * Knowledge of NHSTA / FMVSS requirements * Experience with DVP&R, DFMEA, GD&T, DFM, DFA, etc. * Understanding of ...

eShocan

BENG9 DRE SUV Exterior

Troy, MI · On-site

$37.75 - $43/hr

Be an integral part of an energetic team that's challenging the status quo of vehicle design. * Responsible for the design and development of exterior components and assemblies. * Develop and ...

Recar

Design Release Engineer, Interior

Troy, MI · On-site

$38.25 - $43.50/hr

ABOUT SLATE At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize ... The DRE will be responsible for design and development of Interior Trim accessories, components ...

Slate Auto

Design Release Engineer, Interior

Troy, MI · On-site

$38.25 - $43.50/hr

ABOUT SLATE At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize ... The DRE will be responsible for design and development of Interior Trim accessories, components ...

eShocan

CW Design Engineer (99W207)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Building relationships with key stakeholders (such as drivetrain and vehicle design, TMC engine design, purchasing and assembly plants) * Project managing NA suppliers to ensure on-time delivery of ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsVehicle Design JobsVehicle Design Jobs in Michigan

Vehicle Design information

See Michigan salary details

$53.2K

$114.7K

$136.4K

How much do vehicle design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for vehicle design in Michigan is $114,679.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,400.00 and $135,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is car design a good career?

Car design is a viable career that involves creating the aesthetics and functionality of vehicles, requiring skills in industrial design, engineering, and computer-aided design (CAD). It offers opportunities in automotive companies, design studios, and research institutions, often requiring a relevant degree and portfolio. Job prospects depend on industry demand and individual skills, with roles typically involving collaboration with engineers and manufacturers.

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 much do you get paid for designing cars?

Vehicle designers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level designers may start with lower salaries, while experienced professionals or those working for major automakers can earn higher compensation, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.

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, and why are they important?

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.

How do I become a car designer?

To become a car designer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in industrial design, automotive design, or a related field, along with strong skills in sketching, 3D modeling, and CAD software. Gaining experience through internships or a portfolio of design projects is essential, and knowledge of automotive engineering and materials can be beneficial.

What is the job called that designs cars?

The job that designs cars is called an automotive designer or car designer. These professionals create the exterior and interior concepts of vehicles, often using computer-aided design (CAD) software and collaborating with engineering teams. A strong understanding of aesthetics, engineering principles, and industry standards is essential for this role.
What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Design jobs in Michigan? For Vehicle Design jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Design jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Design jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Vehicle Design jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Vehicle Design job openings:
Vehicle Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Design job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $114,679 per year, or $55.1 per hour.
Senior Vehicle Design Researcher

Senior Vehicle Design Researcher

General Motors

Warren, MI • Hybrid

$105K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

General Motors rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 305 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

Job Description

The role

As General Motors shapes the future of in-vehicle experiences, we are seeking a Design/User Experience Researcher to leadgenerativeand evaluative research forfuture-facingfeatures and interfaces.

Youwill help inform the next generation ofin-vehicle user interfacesby grounding design decisions in real user needs, behaviors, and expectations. You will work across topics such as vehicle onboarding,infotainment UX framework, and cabin comfort, turning research insights into clear recommendations that influence product, design, and strategy.

WhatYou'llDo

  • Identify, prioritize, and lead research initiatives that generate actionable insights to inform product, design, and user experience decisions for future in-vehicle experiences.

  • Plan and execute a range of generative and evaluative research studies, includingconcept testing, and usability testing, interviews,field studies, interviews, diary studies, participatorydesign, ethnography,andsurveys.

  • Partner closely with Design, Product Management,Prototyping,Engineering, and other cross-functional stakeholders to define research goals, inform designiteration,and proactively shape the productstrategy.

  • Evaluate current and future concepts, features, and interfaces across both hardware and software experiences.

  • Synthesize findings into clear, compelling stories, frameworks, and recommendations that influence design strategy anddesigndirection.

  • Conductconcept testingand provide actionable feedback and recommendations to design teams.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)

  • Bachelor's degree in human-Computer Interaction, Human Factors, Psychology, Anthropology, Design Research, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

  • 5+ years of user experience research experience in automotive, consumer electronics, hardware, software, or related fields.

  • Demonstratedexpertisein qualitative and mixed-methods research across both generative and evaluative methodologies

  • Strong communication, storytelling, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teamsand senior stakeholders

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge(Preferred Qualifications)

  • Advanced degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Human Factors, Psychology, Anthropology, Design Research, orrelatedfield.

  • Experience researching automotive in-cabin experiences, driver information systems,orcamera systems.

  • Experience scoping and managing prototype development and conducting research on hardware and HMI products.

  • Familiarity with future-facing mobility experiences, emerging technologies, and evolving user expectations in transportation.

  • Strong curiosity, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset with a passion for future-focused design and emerging use cases.

  • Ability toproducegreat workin shorttimeframes, multi-task acrossdiverse topics, and comfortable withrapid context switchingacrossdifferent projects

Compensation:The compensation information is a good faith estimate only. It is based on what a successful applicant might be paid in accordance with applicable state laws. The compensation may not be representative for positions located outside of New York, Colorado, California, or Washington.

  • The salary range for this role:is$105,600 to $165,300. The actual base salary a successful candidate will be offered within this range will vary based on factors relevant to the position.

  • Bonus Potential:An incentive pay program offers payouts based on company performance, job level, and individual performance.

  • Benefits:GM offers a variety of health and wellbeing benefit programs. Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan, sickness and accident benefits, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, tuition assistance programs, employee assistance program, GM vehicle discounts and more.

#LI-VC1

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Benefits Overview

From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

Accommodations

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

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About General Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908

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