Senior Automotive Product Designer (Solidworks)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Automotive Product Designer (SolidWorks)

Company: Addictive Desert Designs (Horsepower Automotive Group - HPAG)

Location: Chandler, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / Engineering Operations

Date Posted: September 11, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (3+ years CAD Design Experience)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end R&D design process for premium aftermarket automotive accessories, focusing on aesthetic appeal, aggressive styling, and structural integrity for off-road vehicles.

• Translate conceptual ideas and physical part scans into complex 3D CAD models using SolidWorks, preparing them for manufacturing through laser cutting, bending, and welding.

• Collaborate closely with a dedicated prototype engineering team to move new product designs from digital models to physical prototypes and ultimately into production automation.

• Drive innovation in product development by processing 3D scans of vehicle data to inform and enhance new product designs, ensuring seamless integration with vehicle bodylines and OEM functions.

• Contribute to a high-performance, collaborative environment within a rapidly growing multi-brand automotive aftermarket organization, valuing diverse perspectives and open participation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Senior" or "Lead" designer, indicated by the requirement for 3+ years of CAD experience and the expectation to "own the R&D design process end-to-end." The emphasis on turning "bold ideas into manufacturable reality" and working with a prototype team suggests a highly hands-on and product-focused design role within an operations context, rather than a pure engineering role. The title "CAD Designer Lead" further reinforces this leadership aspect.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Create detailed CAD models in SolidWorks for a range of automotive aftermarket accessories, including bumpers and other off-road enhancements, based on templates, existing physical parts, or original concepts.

• Develop and refine complex 3D sheet metal and tubular assemblies, ensuring they are optimized for manufacturing processes such as laser cutting, bending, and welding.

• Process and analyze 3D scan data of vehicles and parts to create accurate mesh models, which will serve as the foundation for new product development and design iterations.

• Partner effectively with the prototype engineering team to facilitate the transition of new product designs into automated production workflows and manufacturing processes.

• Interpret and implement design revisions and feedback from management and engineering teams, demonstrating agility and a proactive approach to design modifications.

• Ensure that all designs maintain OEM functionality while achieving aggressive styling and superior aesthetic appeal, aligning with the company's brand identity and product quality standards.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within the R&D department, fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and practical manufacturing considerations, common in product development operations. The focus on "ready for manufacturing" and "process 3D scans" indicates a need for understanding production constraints and data handling within the design lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background in Industrial Design, Mechanical Design, or a related field is highly beneficial.

Experience: A minimum of 3 years of dedicated CAD design experience is required, with a proven track record in product development.

Required Skills:

• SolidWorks Proficiency: Expert-level ability to create, modify, and manage complex 3D models, assemblies, and drawings within SolidWorks.

• Sheet Metal Design: Demonstrated experience in designing and detailing sheet metal components and complex assemblies for manufacturing.

• Welded Assemblies: Strong understanding and practical experience in designing robust welded assemblies, considering weld types, joint design, and structural integrity.

• Manufacturing Drawings: Proficiency in creating detailed manufacturing drawings with proper annotations, dimensions, tolerances, and Bill of Materials (BOM) for production.

• 3D Scanning Data Processing: Experience in processing, cleaning, and utilizing 3D scan data (mesh models) to drive CAD design efforts.

Preferred Skills:

• Automotive Aftermarket Experience: Prior experience designing aftermarket parts or accessories for vehicles, understanding industry trends and customer preferences.

• GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing): Knowledge and application of GD&T principles for precise control of form, orientation, location, and profile of parts.

• Fixture Design: Experience in designing manufacturing or assembly fixtures to aid in production processes.

• Off-road Enthusiast: A genuine passion and understanding of off-road vehicles, their components, and the user community's needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Must Have" and "Nice to Have" sections clearly delineate core competencies from advantageous skills. The emphasis on SolidWorks, sheet metal, and welded assemblies points to a manufacturing-centric CAD role. The inclusion of "Off-road enthusiast" suggests a desire for candidates who are not just technically proficient but also culturally aligned with the product.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• SolidWorks Design Examples: Showcase at least 2-3 complex SolidWorks projects, demonstrating proficiency in creating detailed 3D models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.

• Sheet Metal & Tubular Assemblies: Include specific examples of sheet metal components and tubular structures designed for manufacturability, highlighting design-for-manufacturing (DFM) considerations.

• 3D Scan to CAD Workflow: Present a case study or examples of how 3D scan data was utilized to drive CAD design, illustrating the process from raw scan data to a finalized design.

• Product Development Lifecycle: Demonstrate experience across a portion of the product development lifecycle, from concept ideation through to production-ready designs, with a focus on the R&D phase.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Provide examples of how you have documented and optimized design workflows to improve efficiency and reduce errors in previous roles.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase instances where your designs were successfully implemented into production, and if applicable, how you contributed to or benefited from automation in the design-to-manufacturing pipeline.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Briefly explain how design outcomes were measured (e.g., manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, aesthetic appeal) and how feedback was used for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Product Designer role focused on manufacturing, a portfolio is crucial. The requirements emphasize demonstrating practical application of CAD skills, understanding of manufacturing processes (sheet metal, welding), and the ability to integrate new technologies like 3D scanning into the design workflow. This is typical for roles that bridge design and production operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The job description states, "Pay is Dependent on Experience." Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Automotive Product Designer with 3+ years of SolidWorks experience in Chandler, Arizona, the estimated salary range is approximately $70,000 - $95,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in the Phoenix metropolitan area and the specialized skills required.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Life Insurance: Provided to offer financial security.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Standard allocation for vacation, sick days, and holidays.

• Employee Discount: Significant discounts on Addictive Desert Designs and other HPAG brand products, allowing employees to own the gear they help create.

• Employee Referral Program: Incentives for referring successful candidates.

Working Hours: Full-time, 8-hour day shift, Monday through Friday, totaling 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar roles in the specified geographic location and experience level. The benefits package is comprehensive and includes perks directly related to the company's product offerings, which can be a strong motivator for employees passionate about the automotive aftermarket.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Aftermarket, specifically focused on off-road vehicle accessories. The company operates within a segment known for its passionate consumer base, demand for high-performance and aesthetically pleasing products, and a strong emphasis on "Made in America" manufacturing.

Company Size: Horsepower Automotive Group (HPAG) is a growing, multi-brand organization. While specific numbers aren't provided, the description suggests a significant and expanding entity with multiple distinct brands (Addictive Desert Designs, DV8 Offroad, Flatline Van Co., Rago Fabrication). This implies a dynamic environment with opportunities for cross-brand exposure.

Founded: Addictive Desert Designs and its parent HPAG are part of a rapidly growing industry. The focus on innovation and premium, American-made products suggests a company culture that values quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction.

Team Structure:

• Design & R&D Team: This role sits within a product design and R&D function, working closely with a prototype engineering team. The team likely comprises designers, engineers, and technicians focused on bringing new products to market.

• Reporting Structure: The Senior Designer will likely report to a Design Manager, R&D Lead, or Head of Product Development, with direct collaboration with prototype engineers and potentially cross-functional teams like manufacturing and sales.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Strong collaboration is expected with the prototype engineering team for physical realization, and potentially with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are production-ready, and with marketing/sales to understand market needs.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: The process involves utilizing 3D scan data of vehicles and physical parts as a foundation for design, indicating a data-informed approach.

• Iterative Design & Prototyping: The close partnership with a prototype team suggests an iterative design process where concepts are rapidly tested and refined through physical builds.

• Focus on Manufacturability: Designs must be "manufacturable," implying a strong emphasis on Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles integrated early in the R&D process.

Company Website: https://www.addictivedesertdesigns.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding HPAG's multi-brand structure is key. It suggests a robust operational framework and potential for growth across different product lines within the automotive aftermarket. The emphasis on "Made in America" and "premium" products highlights a culture of quality and craftsmanship.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Product Designer role, indicating a mid-to-high level of responsibility and expertise. It requires not just technical CAD skills but also the ability to "own the R&D design process end-to-end," process complex data (3D scans), and collaborate effectively with engineering teams to bring products to market. This level typically involves mentoring junior designers and contributing to strategic design decisions.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Product Designer will report to a manager or lead within the R&D or product development department. They will work closely with prototype engineers, and potentially interact with production, sales, and marketing teams. This structure allows for focused design work while ensuring alignment with broader business objectives.

Operations Impact: The designs created directly impact the company's product portfolio, market competitiveness, and revenue generation. By developing visually appealing, functional, and manufacturable aftermarket accessories, the designer contributes to brand reputation, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, sales performance within the automotive aftermarket sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into a Design Lead or Manager role, overseeing design projects and mentoring junior designers within HPAG's expanding structure.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in areas like advanced SolidWorks surfacing, complex sheet metal, fixture design, or 3D scanning technologies through challenging projects.

• Cross-Brand Exposure: As part of HPAG, there may be opportunities to contribute designs to other brands within the group, broadening experience across different vehicle types and product categories.

• Product Strategy Input: Senior designers are often involved in early-stage product strategy discussions, influencing which new accessories are developed based on market trends and design feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and "own the R&D design process" indicate a role with significant autonomy and impact. Growth paths likely involve increased leadership, strategic input, and specialization within the automotive product design domain.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site at the company's facility in Chandler, Arizona. This implies a dedicated workspace within a manufacturing or product development environment.

Office Location(s): Chandler, Arizona, United States. This location is part of the greater Phoenix metropolitan area, offering access to a skilled workforce and a growing industrial base.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Studio: Likely a dedicated CAD design space where designers work on workstations equipped with SolidWorks and potentially 3D scanning equipment.

• Hands-on Prototyping Access: Close proximity and direct collaboration with a prototype engineering team means easy access to see designs materialize, providing immediate feedback loops and opportunities for hands-on involvement with physical parts.

• Integration with Manufacturing: The role is embedded within a company that manufactures its products, allowing for a strong understanding of production processes and direct interaction with manufacturing considerations.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule of 8-hour days, Monday through Friday, totaling 40 hours per week. This structured schedule allows for consistent project work and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and close collaboration with a prototype team are key aspects of this work environment. It's designed for rapid iteration and ensures designers have a tangible connection to the manufacturing process.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess technical skills (SolidWorks, sheet metal, etc.) and relevant experience.

• Technical Interview: Likely an in-depth discussion focused on your CAD proficiency, design process, and problem-solving abilities. This may include a review of your portfolio.

• Design Challenge/Case Study: You might be asked to complete a small design task or present a detailed case study from your portfolio, demonstrating your approach to creating manufacturable automotive aftermarket parts. Focus on how you handled 3D scan data and sheet metal/tubular assemblies.

• Team/Manager Interview: A conversation with the hiring manager and potentially members of the design or prototype engineering team to assess cultural fit, communication skills, and collaborative potential.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit and alignment with the company's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase SolidWorks Mastery: Include detailed examples of complex assemblies, particularly sheet metal and tubular structures, with clear manufacturing drawings.

• Highlight DFM: For each project, briefly explain design choices made to optimize for manufacturing processes (e.g., minimizing material waste, ease of fabrication, weld accessibility).

• Demonstrate 3D Scan Integration: If possible, show a project where you used 3D scan data, illustrating the process from raw scan to usable CAD model.

• Tell a Story: For your chosen case studies, explain the problem, your design solution, the challenges faced, and the outcome. Quantify results where possible (e.g., improved fit, reduced material, enhanced aesthetics).

• Tailor to Automotive Aftermarket: Emphasize projects relevant to vehicles, especially if you have aftermarket experience. Showcase an understanding of off-road vehicle aesthetics and functionality.

Challenge Preparation:

• Focus on Core Skills: Be prepared for tasks involving SolidWorks, sheet metal design, or assembly creation.

• Think Manufacturability: Always consider how your design will be produced. What are the limitations? What are the most efficient methods?

• Communicate Your Process: Clearly articulate your thought process, design decisions, and any assumptions made during a design challenge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential design challenges is standard for product design roles. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate practical CAD skills and a strong understanding of manufacturing constraints relevant to the automotive aftermarket.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• SolidWorks: The core CAD software required for all design tasks, including 3D modeling, assembly creation, sheet metal design, and drawing generation. Proficiency is essential.

• 3D Scanning Software: Tools used to process and clean raw 3D scan data (e.g., Geomagic, PolyWorks, or SolidWorks' own scan tools) to create usable mesh models for design input.

• CAM Software (Potential): While not explicitly listed, understanding of or experience with CAM software used for laser cutting or CNC machining could be beneficial for optimizing designs for production.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Processing Tools: Software for handling and analyzing 3D scan data.

• ERP/MRP Systems (Potential): Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning or Material Requirements Planning systems could be helpful for understanding production planning and material management.

CRM & Automation:

• PDM (Product Data Management) Software: Likely used within the company to manage CAD files, revisions, and project data, ensuring version control and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: SolidWorks is the non-negotiable core tool. Experience with 3D scanning data processing is a significant differentiator. Understanding the broader manufacturing technology stack can provide context for design decisions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship & Quality: A deep commitment to producing high-quality, premium, "Made in America" products that stand the test of time.

• Innovation & Boldness: Encouraging creative thinking and the development of unique, aggressive designs that push the boundaries of the aftermarket industry.

• Collaboration & Openness: Fostering an environment where diverse ideas are welcomed, and open participation from all team members is encouraged.

• Efficiency & Manufacturability: A practical approach that ensures designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also efficient to produce and reliable in real-world conditions.

• Passion for Off-Road: A genuine enthusiasm for the automotive aftermarket and off-road culture, driving a shared understanding of customer needs and product applications.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on & Iterative: A close working relationship between design and prototype engineering, characterized by frequent feedback loops and rapid iteration based on physical builds.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Expect open communication channels between design, engineering, manufacturing, and potentially sales/marketing to ensure alignment and address challenges collectively.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A team culture that tackles challenges head-on, working collaboratively to find practical and innovative solutions for design and manufacturing issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to blend a passion for off-road vehicles with a strong emphasis on quality manufacturing and collaborative innovation. This is typical for successful brands in specialized aftermarket industries.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Aesthetics and Manufacturability: Consistently designing products that meet aggressive styling demands while remaining cost-effective and practical to manufacture using sheet metal and tubular fabrication.

• Integrating 3D Scan Data: Effectively processing and leveraging potentially imperfect 3D scan data to create accurate and functional CAD models for complex vehicle geometries.

• Rapid Product Development Cycles: Keeping pace with market demands and competitor innovations by efficiently moving designs from concept through prototyping to production.

• Evolving Vehicle Platforms: Adapting designs to new vehicle models and updates, requiring continuous learning and flexibility in design approaches.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced SolidWorks Techniques: Opportunities to master advanced surfacing, complex sheet metal features, and assembly management within SolidWorks.

• Prototyping and Fabrication Exposure: Hands-on learning through close collaboration with the prototype team, gaining insights into bending, welding, and finishing processes.

• Industry Trends and Technology: Staying abreast of new materials, manufacturing technologies, and design software advancements relevant to the automotive aftermarket.

• Mentorship: Potential to learn from experienced designers and engineers, and to mentor junior team members as the company grows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to product design in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The growth opportunities focus on deepening technical expertise and gaining broader product development experience within the automotive aftermarket sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance aggressive aesthetic requirements with strict manufacturing constraints for a product. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on DFM, material selection, process considerations).

• "Walk us through your process for taking 3D scan data and turning it into a production-ready CAD model. What are the typical challenges you encounter?" (Highlight data cleaning, meshing, surfacing, and integration into CAD).

• "Imagine you're tasked with designing a new bumper for a popular off-road SUV. What are the first steps you would take in SolidWorks, and what key factors would you consider throughout the design process?" (Demonstrate structured approach, consideration of vehicle integration, manufacturing, and user needs). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about designing aftermarket accessories for off-road vehicles, and what do you admire about Addictive Desert Designs' product line?" (Show genuine passion and research).

• "How do you approach collaboration with a prototype engineering team, especially when there are design challenges or feedback that requires iteration?" (Emphasize communication, problem-solving, and a flexible attitude).

• "Can you provide an example of how you've used data or feedback to improve a design or a design process?" (Focus on metrics, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision-making). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the challenges, your design solutions (with specific SolidWorks examples), and the final outcome/impact.

• Highlight DFM and Manufacturability: Explicitly point out design features that make the product easy and cost-effective to manufacture using sheet metal and welding.

• Showcase SolidWorks Skills: Use screenshots or screen recordings to demonstrate your proficiency in SolidWorks, highlighting complex features, assemblies, and drawings.

• Quantify Success: Whenever possible, use numbers to illustrate the impact of your designs (e.g., reduced material cost by X%, improved fitment accuracy by Y%, successful launch within Z timeline).

• Be Ready for Technical Questions: Anticipate detailed questions about your design choices, software techniques, and manufacturing considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating technical proficiency in SolidWorks and related manufacturing processes, along with an understanding of the automotive aftermarket and a collaborative, problem-solving mindset.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Automotive Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your SolidWorks expertise, sheet metal and welded assembly design experience, and any relevant automotive aftermarket or product development accomplishments. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest projects that best showcase your SolidWorks skills, DFM principles, and experience with manufacturing drawings. Ensure clear documentation of your design process and outcomes, especially for sheet metal and tubular assemblies.

• Prepare Your Portfolio Presentation: Practice walking through your selected portfolio pieces, focusing on clear explanations of your design process, technical challenges, solutions, and the impact of your work. Be ready to discuss your approach to 3D scan data.

• Research HPAG: Familiarize yourself with Addictive Desert Designs, DV8 Offroad, Flatline Van Co., and Rago Fabrication. Understand their product lines, brand identity, and commitment to "Made in America" quality. This will help you articulate your interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding salary ranges and specific interview processes, should be verified directly with Addictive Desert Designs before making application decisions.