Industrial Designer
こうぎょうデザイナー
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Professional Occupations in Legal, Business, Cultural and Artistic Fields
- Middle : Designers
- Minor : Other Designers
Summary
A profession that designs the shape and function of products, considering user usability and manufacturing processes.
Description
Industrial designers are professionals who design and develop the appearance and functions of industrial products such as automobiles, home appliances, and furniture. Based on user surveys and market analysis, they formulate product concepts and realize designs through sketches and 3D modeling. They create and evaluate prototypes, coordinate with manufacturing departments, and derive optimal designs taking into account costs, productivity, and material characteristics. Utilizing CAD software, rendering tools, and 3D printers, they create presentation materials, and are required to incorporate sustainability and ergonomics (human engineering) into their designs.
Future Outlook
With the spread of IoT and smart products, and the increasing importance of sustainable and eco-design, demand for industrial designers is expected to remain high.
Personality Traits
Creative / Emphasizes user perspective / Excellent communication skills / Excellent observation skills / Patient
Work Style
Design firm / Freelance / In-house design department / On-site at client / Project-based
Career Path
Assistant Designer → Junior Designer → Senior Designer → Chief Designer / Director → Product Manager → Freelance
Required Skills
3D modeling / CAD software / Graphic software (Adobe) / Rendering techniques
Recommended Skills
3D prototyping / Market research / Materials engineering knowledge / Sustainable design / UI/UX design
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because minute discrepancies in dimensions or shapes affect product quality. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because creativity to generate original ideas is indispensable. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it mainly involves desk work with little heavy labor. |
Related Qualifications
- CAD Utilization Technician Examination
- Color Coordinator Certification
Aliases
- Industrial Designer
- Product Designer
Related Jobs
- Fashion Designer
- Graphic Designer
- Interior Designer
- Product Manager
- UI/UX Designer