Synonyms: Automotive Designer, Vehicle Designer

Table of Contents

• Quick Facts
• Day in the Life
• Common Characteristics
• How to Become a Car Designer
• Specialties and Similar Career Paths
• Advice from Sean

Quick Facts

What car designers do:

Car designers create the aesthetic and functional aspects of vehicles, combining engineering and artistic skills to design cars that are not only visually appealing but also efficient and safe. They work on both the exterior and interior of vehicles, balancing style with practicality and innovation.

Median income:

$76,250 annually or $36.66 per hour.

Lifestyle:

Car designers typically work in automotive companies or design firms, with standard office hours. Deadlines or major projects may require extra hours, and some travel may be involved for design reviews or collaboration with other teams.

Education Requirements:

A bachelor’s degree is typically required.

Job Outlook

The future for car designers is bright, with the occupation expected to grow 3% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as average with all occupations.

This is perfect for you if:

• You have a passion for cars
• You would enjoy combining creativity with engineering
• You love turning ideas into tangible designs

If that sounds like you, definitely watch our interview with Sean Peterson to learn more about being a car designer here!

Day in the Life

Schedule:

Typically works standard office hours, but may work longer hours as deadlines approach or when collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams.

Setting:

Works in design studios or automotive company offices, often collaborating with engineers, marketers, and manufacturers.

Tasks:

Create concept designs, develop digital and physical models, collaborate with engineers to ensure designs are functional, stay updated on automotive trends, and present designs to stakeholders for approval.

Topics:

Automotive design trends, 3D modeling, vehicle aerodynamics, ergonomics, materials, manufacturing processes, safety regulations, sustainability in design, electric vehicles, and concept sketching.

Skills:

Proficiency in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, 3D modeling, strong sketching ability, an understanding of vehicle mechanics, creativity, and collaboration.

Tools:

Design software (AutoCAD, CATIA, SolidWorks), 3D modeling tools, clay modeling for prototypes, and virtual reality (VR) tools for design visualization.

Common Characteristics

Natural Talents (strengths):

Creativity, a strong eye for detail, a deep understanding of automotive design principles, problem-solving skills, the ability to visualize in 3D, and a passion for vehicles.

Interests:

Enjoys sketching and designing cars, solving engineering challenges, and staying updated on automotive trends.

Personality:

Typically have artistic, investigative, and realistic personality types, with a blend of creative vision and practical application.

Values:

Innovation, craftsmanship, functionality, sustainability in design, and pushing the boundaries of automotive technology.

*Terms used to describe interests and personality are based on the Holland Framework.

How to Become a Car Designer

Education Requirements:

A bachelor’s degree in industrial design, automotive design, or a related field is typically required. Experience with design software and a strong portfolio showcasing creative and technical skills are essential for landing a job in the field.

Preferred Majors

Specialties and Similar Career Paths

Advice from Sean

Job hunt tips to set yourself apart:

To succeed, focus on your strengths but also work on your weaknesses. For example, if a tool like Blender intimidates you, push through the initial difficulty. It’s all about mindset. Accept that you’ll struggle at first, but with time and practice, you’ll improve. Once you get better, it becomes fun, so stick with it even when it’s tough.

Fastest way to get your foot in the door:

The fastest way is to attend design school, and if possible, secure a scholarship by taking night or remote courses like those offered by Art Center. You can also get 1-on-1 feedback on your portfolio from experienced designers for insider advice on what people are looking for.

Recommended resources:

Sean recommends enrolling in design courses like those offered by Art Center College of Design and using Pinterest to explore professional sketches and improve techniques.

What Sean would tell his younger self if he was just getting started:

“Relax — it’s going to be fine. A little anxiety and stress help push you to put in the effort and make it through. It’s hard to say what I would change because that pressure motivated me. If you have the drive and put in the time and energy, you’ll make it. I wouldn’t question my younger self because I was going to be a car designer no matter what, even if it’s hard work or if other careers might pay more. You need that mentality to succeed. When challenges arise, like road construction, you don’t stop—you just find a different route.”

Watch the full interview with Sean:

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Data on job profiles is based on information supplied by the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, My Next Move from the National Center for O*NET Development, and the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration. Accessed 26 September 2024.

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