Product Design & Development Jobs
A career in product design and development combines art, engineer, and business in order to design products that people can use on an everyday basis. Product designers and developers, also known as commercial and industrial designers, play a major role in shaping the world one object at a time.
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Description
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Product designers and developers design and develop products such as cars, children's toys, and home appliances. They combine creativity, research, and materials in order to create a functional and appealing product. According to the Occupational Information Network, a product designer or developer may also have other job titles, such as commercial designer, industrial designer, design engineer, or product engineer.
Work Hours and Environment
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Designers may be employed by large corporations, manufacturing establishments, or design firms. They may work regular 40-hour work weeks within offices. Some are self-employed and as a result, they may work longer hours in variable locations. Product designers may work in offices, studios, or a client's home; they may also work atypical hours in order to coordinate with client schedules and deadlines. Product designers and developers may even work evenings and weekends. They may also travel to other locations, such as design centers, testing facilities, or manufacturing facilities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, industries with the highest levels of employment for product designers are as follows: architectural, engineering and related services; management of companies and enterprises; and specialized design services.
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Education and Training
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For most entry-level positions, a bachelor's degree is required. Many employers look for a degree in industrial design, engineering, or architecture. For more employment opportunities and advancement, a master's degree in commercial and industrial design may be required.
Other Qualifications
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Technical knowledge and creativity are vital for product designers. A good portfolio that includes examples of a prospective employee's work is often the deciding factor. Product designers and developers must have strong communication skills. They must be able to convey their ideas verbally, visually, and in writing. They have strong problem-solving skills and must have the self-discipline to work autonomously. Product designers also must know how to use computer-aided design software. Employers may also be looking for strategic design and other business management skills.
Salary
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According to a May 2008 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean hourly wage of a commercial and industrial designer was $29.60, and the mean annual wage was $61,580. Annual salaries ranged from $31,400 to $97,770.
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References
Resources
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