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Vehicle Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lead/Studio Design Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Are you curious about how a vehicle design develops into reality, where it all begins? The Lead/Studio Design Engineer is responsible for integrating and balancing vehicle models with Design in ...

Lead/Studio Design Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Are you curious about how a vehicle design develops into reality, where it all begins? The Lead/Studio Design Engineer is responsible for integrating and balancing vehicle models with Design in ...

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

Coordinate between manufacturing, supply chain, marketing, and service to ensure the vehicle design is manufacturable, serviceable, and commercially viable. ACE Partnership: Partner with the ...

Vehicle Handler

Warren, MI

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

General Motors Design is seeking a Mechanical Assembly Technician / Vehicle Handler to support the management, maintenance, and presentation of Design Historical Vehicles, Design Concept Vehicles ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 22, 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 cities in Michigan are hiring for Vehicle Design jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Vehicle Design job openings:

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 (DRE) - Armor - GM Defense

General Motors

Warren, MI • On-site

$100 - $150/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

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Based on 306 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,301 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Design Release Engineer is responsible for the design and release of several Body, Interior, and Survivability subsystems. They are involved with the latest technology for use on current and future GM Defense (GMD) work. They work with a high-performance team and will be responsible for the design and packaging of many components. The Design Release Engineer will utilize Program Management knowledge to aid in achieving program milestones. You will coach and lead suppliers to timely execution of program deliverables with perfection. You'll will provide expert judgment and analysis for the design, development and implementation of technical products and systems.

What You'll Do
  • Resolve highly complex technical issues and conduct advanced research.
  • Recommend alterations to development and design to improve quality of products and/or procedures.
  • Be skilled and proficient with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures.
  • Rely mostly on extensive personal experience and discernment to plan and accomplish goals.
  • Perform multiple tasks. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected.
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
  • BS in Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline 3+ years' experience in vehicle design.
  • 5+ years' experience working in an engineering discipline Knowledge of High and Low volume suppliers Understanding of GD&T principles Build process trouble shooting experience General knowledge of cost drivers within the material forming space Excellent collaboration skills with others within and outside of their direct organization Experience solving design/manufacturing issues quickly as part of a cross-functional team Experience managing OEMs or suppliers on critical timelines Experience resolving complex engineering issues Experience presenting to a wide variety of audiences Ability to work periodically at MPG Milford, MI Eligible to obtain Secret U.S. Security Clearance after hire.
What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
  • MS in Mechanical / Electrical Engineering
  • DFSS Black Belt certification
  • Vehicle Launch Experience
  • Military Experience
  • Experience as a military contractor

#GMD 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. This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate. This position requires the ability to legally operate a motor vehicle on a regular basis and successfully complete a Motor Vehicle Report review.

This position requires eligibility to access classified information at the Secret U.S. Security Clearance level for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. The successful candidate must have eligibility to access classified information at that level. The position is subject to export control restrictions and requires the successful candidate to be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, asylee or refugee).

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.

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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.

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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