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Vehicle Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... vehicle specifications. Create solids model tocorrespond with engineering tree. Pull ECN numbers ... UtilizeAurora, Solid Works, and AutoCad Design Software. Use knowledge of vehicledesign, testing ...

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 ...

Design Release Engineer, Interior

Troy, MI

$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 ...

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 ...

Bodywork Technician

Torrance, CA · On-site

$32 - $54/hr

Join Our Relentless Pursuit of Excellence At Singer Vehicle Design, we believe Everything is Important. That's why every nut, bolt, stitch, and finish matters when we restore and reimagine Porsche ...

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Vehicle Design information

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$61K

$131.6K

$156.5K

How much do vehicle design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 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.

What is a person that designs cars called?

A person who designs cars is called an automotive designer or car designer. They develop the exterior and interior concepts of vehicles, often using CAD software and collaborating with engineers. Automotive designers typically have a background in industrial design or engineering and may work for car manufacturers or design firms.

What is the highest salary for Automotive Designer?

The highest salaries for automotive designers can exceed $100,000 annually, especially for senior or lead roles in large companies or luxury automakers. Factors such as experience, location, and expertise with CAD software influence earning potential.

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.

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 job lets you design cars?

A vehicle designer or automotive designer is responsible for creating the exterior and interior concepts of cars. They use skills in sketching, 3D modeling, and knowledge of engineering and aerodynamics, often working with CAD software. This role typically requires a degree in industrial design, automotive engineering, or a related field.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,574 per year, or $63.3 per hour.
Fuel Systems Engineer, Air Vehicles

Fuel Systems Engineer, Air Vehicles

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago


Anduril rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 71,325 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Air Dominance and Strike Mechanical Engineering Team is responsible for designing and integrating advanced hardware for Group 5 air vehicles and missile platforms. Air Dominance and Strike Mechanical Design Engineers own the full development lifecycle, from concept generation, to integration and flight test, ensuring high-performance, resilient, and scalable mechanical systems that meet the demands of complex, contested environments.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Develop preliminary designs of flight vehicle fuel systems, along with vehicle design team, to meet quantity, flow, venting, and refueling considerations
  • Perform detailed design of tube, lines, pumps, gauging, filtration, venting, and refueling/defueling systems
  • Develop BOM for fuel systems, and support sourcing of components
  • Support prototype manufacture and installation of fuel systems in flight vehicles
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • B.S. in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years experience in the design of air vehicle fuel systems
  • Siemens NX proficiency
  • Excellent communication and team skills
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret Clearance
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 10+ years experience
  • Active Top secret DoD clearance
  • Unmanned Air Vehicle design experience

Working at Anduril


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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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