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Vehicle Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Associates in Vehicle Design or Product Development * Powertrain, Chassis, or Body Design * Electrical Design - Routing & Packaging All employees are required to work within the confines and ...

Associates in Vehicle Design or Product Development * Powertrain, Chassis, or Body Design * Electrical Design - Routing & Packaging All employees are required to work within the confines and ...

Digital Sculptor

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$125K/yr

Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge vehicle design for an industry leader * Work in a collaborative, creative environment with exposure to advanced design technologies * Expand your portfolio ...

Digital Sculptor

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$125K/yr

Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge vehicle design for an industry leader * Work in a collaborative, creative environment with exposure to advanced design technologies * Expand your portfolio ...

Understanding of vehicle design, assembly, and process control. * Understanding of tooling and in plant processes. * Strong analytical, problem-solving and communications skills with ability to work ...

Vehicle Porter

Auburn Hills, MI

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

... design, fleet maintenance, vehicle customization, and vehicle event services. Job Type: Full-Time Location: Auburn Hills, MI Schedule: 6am - 2:30pm (M-F) Description: The Porter is tasked with ...

Vehicle Porter

Auburn Hills, MI

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

... design, fleet maintenance, vehicle customization, and vehicle event services. Job Type: Full-Time Location: Auburn Hills, MI Schedule: 6am - 2:30pm (M-F) Description: The Porter is tasked with ...

Vehicle Porter

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

... design, fleet maintenance, vehicle customization, and vehicle event services. Job Type: Full-Time Location: Auburn Hills, MI Schedule: 6am - 2:30pm (M-F) Description: The Porter is tasked with ...

Showing results 41-60

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 6, 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 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.

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.

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 typically requires a relevant degree in industrial design, automotive engineering, or a related field, along with strong skills in CAD software and a portfolio of design work. Competition can be high, and experience through internships or co-op programs can improve chances of employment in this specialized field.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Vehicle Design job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,679 per year, or $55.1 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 305 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,270 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description

At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We're turning today's impossible into tomorrow's standard -from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.

Every day, our products move millions of peopleas we aim to makedriving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.

The Role:

The Chassis Materials Engineer will apply a strong metallurgy and materials engineering background to specify materials used in vehicle design, with a focus on gears, driveline systems, axles, prop shafts, and related components.

What You'll Do (Responsibilities)

  • Specify chassis/HVAC material call-out for use on vehicle parts.

  • Write specifications related to materials for use on vehicle parts.

  • Research, study and test new material combinations to reduce cost and weight and improve strength at the same time they take ensure the combinations can be joint, either welded or through dispense and that the process will be reliable and repeatable.

  • Design and conduct advanced material testing to evaluate performance under various conditions.

  • Oversee the development and implementation of lightweight and sustainable materials.

  • Perform in-depth failure analysis and develop solutions to material-related issues.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize production processes and ensure high-quality output.

  • Innovate and integrate new materials and technologies into vehicle design.

  • Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

  • Coordinate with suppliers to ensure material quality and availability.

  • Document and present research findings, test results, and material specifications.

  • Mentor and guide junior engineers in their professional development.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)

  • Bachelor's degree in Materials or Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field.

  • Strong proficiency in data analysis techniques and software for interpreting material test results and process optimization.

  • Solid understanding of various metallurgical manufacturing processes.

  • Experience with material testing methodologies and equipment.

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and a strong analytical mindset.

  • Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.

  • Strong communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal.

  • 5+ years of proven experience in metallurgy and materials development, characterization, and application, preferably within the automotive industry.

What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

  • Master's or PhD degree in Metallurgical or Materials Engineering,

  • or a related field.

  • DFSS Black Belt or Master Black Belt.

  • Familiarity with automotive industry standards and regulations.

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}. This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate.

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