ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Vehicle Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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

BENG7 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

CW Design Engineer (99W207)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

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

General Motors

Design Sculptor - Digital

Warren, MI

$127K/yr

Develop and refine NURBS for vehicle interior and exterior components. * Translate design themes, sketches, and engineering requirements into accurate digital surface solutions. * Evaluate surface ...

General Motors

Design Sculptor - Digital

Warren, MI · On-site

$127K/yr

Develop and refine NURBS for vehicle interior and exterior components. * Translate design themes, sketches, and engineering requirements into accurate digital surface solutions. * Evaluate surface ...

FastTek

DRE Exterior

Troy, MI

$38.25 - $43.50/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

DRE - Seat Complete

Troy, MI · On-site

$140K/yr

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

Slate Auto

Sr. Director of Digital Experience Design

Troy, MI · On-site

$146K - $180K/yr

ABOUT SLATE At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize ... You'll set design direction, build and scale the team, establish the systems and processes that ...

Recar

Sr. Director of Digital Experience Design

Troy, MI

$146K - $180K/yr

ABOUT SLATE At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize ... You'll set design direction, build and scale the team, establish the systems and processes that ...

Slate Auto

Principal Vehicle Safety Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$123K - $185K/yr

Understanding of vehicle design for structures, restraints, interior systems, and occupant protection solutions that meet regulatory and third-party requirements * Knowledge of CAE methodologies and ...

Slate Auto

Principal Vehicle Safety Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$123 - $185/hr

Understanding of vehicle design for structures, restraints, interior systems, and occupant protection solutions that meet regulatory and third-party requirements * Knowledge of CAE methodologies and ...

next page

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 Aug 26, 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.

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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,679 per year, or $55.1 per hour.

Design Release Engineer

Venteon

Troy, MI • On-site

$135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description


Design Release Engineer- Exterior Accessories
Minimum 5 Years experience in Design Release Engineering
Venteon is currently seeking an experienced Design Release to fill a opening with a manufacturing company located in Metro Detroit. The ideal candidates should have a background in design engineering, ideally in exteriors and accessories within automotive.
Requirements of the Design Release Engineer
  • 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 product and vehicle development cycles and processes

Benefits of the Design Release Engineer
  • Competitive salary
  • Advancement potential
  • Full time
  • Paid time off
  • Medical / Dental / Vision
  • Profit Sharing & Pension plans

Responsibilities of the Design Release Engineer
  • Design and development of exterior systems and sub-systems
  • Work with internal teams such as quality, manufacturing and design
  • Responsible for system - level validation and verification activities

If you are a high performer and would like to work for an equally high performing company and you think the above opportunity is appropriate for you, we invite you to submit your resume in Microsoft Word format to bray@venteon.com.
We treat all resumes with strict confidentiality. We will always contact you first before submitting your resume to our client(s) for review. If you do not receive correspondence, you are not a fit for this position.
At Venteon our talent acquisition team is proud to provide our clients with the most qualified Accounting & Finance, Engineering, IT and Administrative talent in the industry today.

Apply