Commercial and industrial designers are responsible for creating and developing products that are used in commercial, industrial, and consumer contexts. Their job description typically involves: 1. Concept Development: Generating ideas and concepts for new products based on client requirements or market needs. 2. Design Creation: Creating detailed designs using computer-aided design (CAD) software or traditional sketching methods. 3. Prototyping: Developing prototypes of products to test functionality, aesthetics, and usability. 4. Collaboration: Working closely with engineers, manufacturers, marketers, and other professionals to ensure the design meets technical requirements and market demands. 5. Market Research: Conducting market research to understand consumer preferences, trends, and competitive products. 6. Material Selection: Choosing appropriate materials for product durability, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal. 7. Product Testing: Performing tests and evaluations to ensure products meet quality standards and safety regulations. 8. Client Communication: Maintaining communication with clients to understand their needs, provide progress updates, and incorporate feedback into the design process. 9. Project Management: Overseeing the design process from concept to production, managing timelines, budgets, and resources effectively. 10. Stay Updated: Keeping up-to-date with industry trends, technologies, and design techniques to enhance skills and deliver innovative solutions. Overall, commercial and industrial designers play a crucial role in bringing products from concept to reality, focusing on both the aesthetic appeal and functional aspects of the design.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $45,820.00 |
25th percentile | $65,850.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $80,650.00 |
75th percentile | $104,250.00 |
90th percentile | $132,130.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $22.03 |
25th percentile | $31.66 |
median (50th percentile) | $38.78 |
75th percentile | $50.12 |
90th percentile | $63.52 |
Commercial and Industrial Designers typically need a bachelor's degree in industrial design, architecture, or a related field. Some positions may also require a master's degree for advanced roles. While a high school diploma is required for entry into a bachelor's degree program, completing college education is necessary to become a Commercial and Industrial Designer. In terms of training, aspiring designers often participate in internships or cooperative programs to gain hands-on experience and build their portfolios. They learn design principles, computer-aided design (CAD) software, sketching, model making, and manufacturing processes to develop products that are functional and aesthetically pleasing for commercial or industrial use. Ongoing professional development is common in this field to stay current with design trends and technologies.