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Vehicle Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr Industrial Designer, Vehicle Design

Palm Bay, FL ยท On-site

$87K - $93K/yr

Sr. Industrial Designer - Vehicle design At BRP, design is about creating emotion, not just movement. Our products come to life through bold ideas, deep user understanding, and a passion for ...

Vehicle Design Specialist - AI Trainer

Detroit, MI ยท 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 ...

Vehicle Product Engineer

Winamac, IN ยท On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Hands-on experience in complete vehicle design and development from concept to production * Strong background in designing mechanical systems, including suspension, closures, liftgates, and ...

BENG5 DRE Exterior

Troy, MI ยท 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 ...

BENG8 DRE SUV Exterior

Troy, MI ยท 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 ...

BENG9 DRE SUV Exterior

Troy, MI ยท 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 ...

Design Release Engineer

Troy, MI ยท 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 ...

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Vehicle Design information

See salary details

$61K

$131.6K

$156.5K

How much do vehicle design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 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.

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.
More about Vehicle Design jobs
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:
Infographic showing various Vehicle Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $131,574 per year, or $63.3 per hour.
Utility Vehicle Design Engineer (KRDNA)

Utility Vehicle Design Engineer (KRDNA)

Kubota

Gainesville, GA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job purpose
Deliver innovative, high-quality, cost-competitive parts, assemblies and accessories for new utility vehicle products by collaborating with Purchasing, Quality, Manufacturing, and Test and Evaluation groups.
Duties and responsibilities
  • Produce high quality engineering solutions that conform to Kubota design standards
  • Generate new and creative designs for the parts, assemblies and accessories of Kubota utility vehicle products that meet requirements of quality, cost, manufacturability, and safety
  • Collaborate with other members of the design team, test and evaluation, manufacturing, procurement, quality control, etc. throughout the entire design process from concept generation to prototyping and production
  • Create detailed design reports, 3D models, and drawings based on Kubota standards engineering research and calculations
  • Solve technical challenges related to utility vehicle design
  • While performing the duties of this job, the team member must have the ability to work in office, test lab, manufacturing and field environments
  • Ability to work extended and flexible work hours to interface with workers on all shifts as well as international business units and must be physically able to travel domestically and internationally (Up to 10% of travel).

Essential Skills and Experience1-2 years of experience in product design or related field.
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or similar engineering-related field
  • New product development experience
  • Demonstrated success working in a cross-cultural environment
  • Computer skills including MS Office, Google-based programs, 3D modeling, and drafting
  • Knowledge of engineering mechanics and vehicle systems: mechanisms, statics, dynamics, kinematics, etc.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing and fabrication processes such as cutting, drilling, welding, forming and machining
  • Skilled in the use of engineering tools such as DFMEA and finite element analysis
  • Self-directed with strong organizational and motivational skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent problem solving and decision-making skills

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Experience with CATIA V5
  • Experience working with mixed Japanese and American teams and leadership
  • Experience with automobile, utility vehicle and outdoor power equipment
  • Experience with electric vehicle system architecture and control
  • Metal fabrication and welding design experience
  • Experience with design for manufacturability and GD&T
  • Experience with utility vehicle end users and dealers (farmer, rancher, landscaper, commercial, grounds maintenance, etc.)
  • Knowledge of Japanese language

Working Conditions
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Physical Requirements
Team member uses hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, reach with hands and arms; ascend stairs; balance; stoop, kneel or crouch; talk and hear. It may be necessary to travel between offices in our facilities and it could be in hot, cold, or inclement weather conditions. The team member must occasionally lift up to 50 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to focus.
Direct reports
N/A
#KRDNA