Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
An Industrial Designer combines art, business, and engineering to develop the concepts for manufactured products. This role involves designing products that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, ergonomic, and suitably priced.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 2.0% (below average)
Annual job openings: 2,500
Direct AI exposure: 7% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 76% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $84K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $54K per year | $66K per year | $84K per year | $109K per year | $140K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $33K above the national average. | ||||
Industrial Designers typically work in design studios, manufacturing firms, or corporate environments. They may also be part of a design consultancy or work as freelancers. The work often involves collaboration with engineers, marketers, and other designers, and can require working with various design software and tools.
Industrial Designers play a critical role in product development, blending creative design skills with an understanding of manufacturing processes and consumer needs. Their work begins with identifying the requirements for a new product, followed by developing and testing design concepts. They must consider various aspects, such as the product's purpose, cost, production processes, and user experience.
A significant part of an Industrial Designer's job involves using CAD software to create detailed designs and specifications. They often work on multiple projects simultaneously, requiring strong organizational and time-management skills. Collaboration with other professionals, such as engineers and marketing specialists, is also crucial to ensure that the final product meets all necessary criteria.
The field of industrial design is constantly evolving with technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. Designers must stay updated with the latest trends and technologies, often requiring continuous learning and adaptation. Career progression can lead to senior design roles, project management, or consultancy work.
Most Industrial Designer positions require a bachelor's degree in industrial design, architecture, or engineering, which typically involves 4 years of undergraduate study. Some designers pursue additional education or specialized training in related fields.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
