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Industrial Design Engineering Careers and Jobs

Select, Find and Prepare for Industrial Design Engineering Careers and Jobs - all on one page

For people who want to design physical products and need both engineering and design skills. Use the tools below to see which industrial design engineering roles fit your background and goals.

This major blends product design aesthetics with engineering feasibility, distinct from pure engineering or pure art programs. Use the tools below to explore Industrial Design Engineering-related job titles sorted by growth rate, salary, or required education. You can start with entry points like Junior Product Designer, or look ahead to advanced roles such as Senior Industrial Designer or Product Development Lead. Along the way, you will see specific certifications, such as None formally required; portfolio and CAD skill matter most, that can help you move up the career ladder.



4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video External Link

This page will take you through 4 steps to (1) Select from Industrial Design Engineering careers/jobs, (2) Find Industrial Design Engineering job listings, (3) Prepare for Industrial Design Engineering careers, and (4) Provide Industrial Design Engineering career-specific resources.

Step 1: Select a Career/Job: This page starts with 4 ways for you to identify and select from listings of Industrial Design Engineering careers/jobs:
A) Fastest Growing Industrial Design Engineering Careers - 2023 to 2033 (est.)
These listings are based on job growth estimates and helps you to identify the fastest growing and evolving Industrial Design Engineering careers. Some careers may not initially seem related to Industrial Design Engineering, so relevant Industrial Design Engineering jobs are listed alongside each listing. This can also help us to identify which careers (bottom of the listing) may have negative growth - perhaps due to automation or planned obsolescence.
B) Median Annual Salary U.S. Industrial Design Engineering Careers
These listings are sorted (descending) by median annual salary in the U.S. This may help us to identify our ideal career. We may not qualify at this time for the desired career, but this listing and the results provided can help us to explore job details, as well as learn how to appropriately prepare for the career.
C) Industrial Design Engineering Career Ladders (Educational Requirements)
These listings will help us to identify Industrial Design Engineering careers sorted by educational requirements (with the most difficult to obtain listed first). This may help us to identify career ladders (as we scroll down the list), and help us to get jobs that we qualify for now.
D) Select From a Listing of 38 Industrial Design Engineering Jobs.
The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.
Once you have identified a job title of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.

Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the chosen career. Information may include (not every career choice includes all of the elements below - updates occur quarterly):
Core Duties: Lists the primary worker-related tasks performed in this occupation
Supplemental Duties: Lists additional tasks that are performed but are secondary to the core duties
Work Activities: Summarizes the broad types of behaviors and actions related to this career
Specific Work Activities: Provides more granular day-to-day activities tied to the work performed
Essential Skills: Provides foundational skills that are core to performing this specific occupation
Transferable Skills: Provides career-portable skills that can be applied across multiple occupations and industries
Day-in-the-Life Summaries: Provides a snapshot of the key activities performed on a typical workday in this career
Knowledge Required: Provides the requirements regarding the acquisition of facts and principles
Software Skills: Lists software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized by category and priority
Preparation Required: Provides a summary of the required experience and education
Education Required: Detailed breakdown of the education required
Training and Experience Required: Detailed breakdown of the training and Training and Experience Required
Local Salary Information: Provides national and local salary ranges
Certifications: Provides appropriate government and private-sector certifications and/or credentials that may be required
Professional Associations: Provides professional associations that are related to the career selected
Job Listings: Provides links to active current job listings for the selected career, along with multiple similar job titles to explore. All information appears on this page without navigating away.
Related Careers to Consider: Lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to your initial choice - what they do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit.

** If you clicked on a link from section D (as described in Step 1 above), you will see one or more links to an occupation that is usually a bit more general than your initial job selection - the link(s) is directly related to the specific job you identified through your prior selections.
*NOTE: It is possible that there may not be a career path identified for the specific job you selected in Step 1. If this is the case, scroll up the page and click on a different career/job.

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that provide detailed (updated) links specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview. Can also assist with coffee chats.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.




Step 1 of 4: Select a Career/Job

14 Industrial Design Engineering careers are listed below (sorted by Percentage Change in Total Job Openings - 2023 to 2033 est.). Industrial Design Engineering-related jobs specific to each career are also provided. This shows which careers are emerging and growing the fastest. Please Scroll and Select below:

Occupations U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033 (% change) Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers 27.4% CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer)
Occupation: Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 27.4% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer)
Dental Laboratory Technicians 12.2% CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Dental Laboratory Technicians U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 12.2% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Art Directors 11% Product Design Director
Occupation: Art Directors U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 11% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Product Design Director
Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers 8% Camera Prototyping Engineer
Occupation: Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 8% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Camera Prototyping Engineer
Commercial and Industrial Designers 5.6% Industrial Designer; Product Design Engineer; Product Designer; UI Product Designer (User Interface Product Designer); UX Product Designer (User Experience Product Designer)
Occupation: Commercial and Industrial Designers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 5.6% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Industrial Designer; Product Design Engineer; Product Designer; UI Product Designer (User Interface Product Designer); UX Product Designer (User Experience Product Designer)
Architectural and Engineering Managers 4.1% Prototype Engineer Manager
Occupation: Architectural and Engineering Managers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 4.1% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Engineer Manager
Surveying and Mapping Technicians 3.7% Survey CAD Technician (Survey Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Surveying and Mapping Technicians U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 3.7% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Survey CAD Technician (Survey Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Electrical and Electronics Drafters 2.3% AutoCAD Drafter; AutoCAD Technician; CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); Computer-Aided Design Designer (CAD Designer); Computer-Aided Design Technician (CAD Tech)
Occupation: Electrical and Electronics Drafters U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 2.3% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: AutoCAD Drafter; AutoCAD Technician; CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); Computer-Aided Design Designer (CAD Designer); Computer-Aided Design Technician (CAD Tech)
Carpenters 2.1% Prototype Carpenter
Occupation: Carpenters U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 2.1% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Carpenter
Fashion Designers 0.5% Product Designer
Occupation: Fashion Designers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 0.5% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Product Designer
Architectural and Civil Drafters -0.9% Architectural CAD Drafter (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Drafter); Architectural CAD Technician (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Technician); AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician); Civil CAD Designer (Civil Computer-Aided Design Designer)
Occupation: Architectural and Civil Drafters U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -0.9% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Architectural CAD Drafter (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Drafter); Architectural CAD Technician (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Technician); AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician); Civil CAD Designer (Civil Computer-Aided Design Designer)
Mechanical Drafters -4.7% AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); AutoCAD Technician (Auto Computer-Aided Design Technician); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Operator (Computer Aided Design Operator); CAD Operator (Computer-Aided Design Operator); CAD Technician (Computer Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Mechanical Drafters U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -4.7% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); AutoCAD Technician (Auto Computer-Aided Design Technician); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Operator (Computer Aided Design Operator); CAD Operator (Computer-Aided Design Operator); CAD Technician (Computer Aided Design Technician)
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic -4.9% Prototype Fabricator; Prototype Model Maker; Prototype Special Build; Prototyper; Welding Prototype Operator
Occupation: Model Makers, Metal and Plastic U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -4.9% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Fabricator; Prototype Model Maker; Prototype Special Build; Prototyper; Welding Prototype Operator
Sewing Machine Operators -14% Prototype Sewer
Occupation: Sewing Machine Operators U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -14% Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Sewer

16 Industrial Design Engineering careers are listed below (sorted by U.S. National Median Salary). Industrial Design Engineering-related jobs specific to each occupation are also provided. Please Scroll and Select below::

Occupations National Median Salary Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs

Architectural and Engineering Managers $ 165,370 Prototype Engineer Manager
Occupation: Architectural and Engineering Managers National Median Salary: $ 165,370 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Engineer Manager
Microsystems Engineers $ 111,970 Product Design Engineer
Occupation: Microsystems Engineers National Median Salary: $ 111,970 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Product Design Engineer
Art Directors $ 106,500 Product Design Director
Occupation: Art Directors National Median Salary: $ 106,500 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Product Design Director
Video Game Designers $ 98,540 Prototype Developer
Occupation: Video Game Designers National Median Salary: $ 98,540 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Developer
Fashion Designers $ 79,290 Product Designer
Occupation: Fashion Designers National Median Salary: $ 79,290 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Product Designer
Commercial and Industrial Designers $ 76,250 Industrial Designer; Product Design Engineer; Product Designer; UI Product Designer (User Interface Product Designer); UX Product Designer (User Experience Product Designer)
Occupation: Commercial and Industrial Designers National Median Salary: $ 76,250 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Industrial Designer; Product Design Engineer; Product Designer; UI Product Designer (User Interface Product Designer); UX Product Designer (User Experience Product Designer)
Electrical and Electronics Drafters $ 69,260 AutoCAD Drafter; AutoCAD Technician; CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); Computer-Aided Design Designer (CAD Designer); Computer-Aided Design Technician (CAD Tech)
Occupation: Electrical and Electronics Drafters National Median Salary: $ 69,260 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: AutoCAD Drafter; AutoCAD Technician; CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); Computer-Aided Design Designer (CAD Designer); Computer-Aided Design Technician (CAD Tech)
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic $ 64,190 Prototype Fabricator; Prototype Model Maker; Prototype Special Build; Prototyper; Welding Prototype Operator
Occupation: Model Makers, Metal and Plastic National Median Salary: $ 64,190 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Fabricator; Prototype Model Maker; Prototype Special Build; Prototyper; Welding Prototype Operator
Mechanical Drafters $ 64,060 AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); AutoCAD Technician (Auto Computer-Aided Design Technician); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Operator (Computer Aided Design Operator); CAD Operator (Computer-Aided Design Operator); CAD Technician (Computer Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Mechanical Drafters National Median Salary: $ 64,060 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); AutoCAD Technician (Auto Computer-Aided Design Technician); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Operator (Computer Aided Design Operator); CAD Operator (Computer-Aided Design Operator); CAD Technician (Computer Aided Design Technician)
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers $ 63,440 CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer)
Occupation: Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers National Median Salary: $ 63,440 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer)
Architectural and Civil Drafters $ 61,820 Architectural CAD Drafter (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Drafter); Architectural CAD Technician (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Technician); AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician); Civil CAD Designer (Civil Computer-Aided Design Designer)
Occupation: Architectural and Civil Drafters National Median Salary: $ 61,820 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Architectural CAD Drafter (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Drafter); Architectural CAD Technician (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Technician); AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician); Civil CAD Designer (Civil Computer-Aided Design Designer)
Carpenters $ 56,350 Prototype Carpenter
Occupation: Carpenters National Median Salary: $ 56,350 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Carpenter
Surveying and Mapping Technicians $ 48,940 Survey CAD Technician (Survey Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Surveying and Mapping Technicians National Median Salary: $ 48,940 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Survey CAD Technician (Survey Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Dental Laboratory Technicians $ 47,690 CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Dental Laboratory Technicians National Median Salary: $ 47,690 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers $ 46,850 Camera Prototyping Engineer
Occupation: Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers National Median Salary: $ 46,850 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Camera Prototyping Engineer
Sewing Machine Operators $ 34,440 Prototype Sewer
Occupation: Sewing Machine Operators National Median Salary: $ 34,440 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Sewer

16 Industrial Design Engineering careers are listed (sorted by Education/Preparation Requirements - descending) to provide career ladders. Industrial Design Engineering-related jobs specific to each career are also provided.

Education/Preparation Categories:
5 = Usually requires graduate school (e.g., Master's degree, Ph.D., M.D., or J.D.)
4 = Usually requires a four-year Bachelor's degree
3 = Usually requires vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or Associate's degree
2 = Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, but not always
Please Scroll and Select below:
Occupations Education/Preparation Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs

Architectural and Engineering Managers 5 Prototype Engineer Manager
Occupation: Architectural and Engineering Managers Education/Preparation: 5 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Engineer Manager
Microsystems Engineers 5 Product Design Engineer
Occupation: Microsystems Engineers Education/Preparation: 5 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Product Design Engineer
Art Directors 4 Product Design Director
Occupation: Art Directors Education/Preparation: 4 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Product Design Director
Commercial and Industrial Designers 4 Industrial Designer; Product Design Engineer; Product Designer; UI Product Designer (User Interface Product Designer); UX Product Designer (User Experience Product Designer)
Occupation: Commercial and Industrial Designers Education/Preparation: 4 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Industrial Designer; Product Design Engineer; Product Designer; UI Product Designer (User Interface Product Designer); UX Product Designer (User Experience Product Designer)
Video Game Designers 4 Prototype Developer
Occupation: Video Game Designers Education/Preparation: 4 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Developer
Architectural and Civil Drafters 3 Architectural CAD Drafter (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Drafter); Architectural CAD Technician (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Technician); AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician); Civil CAD Designer (Civil Computer-Aided Design Designer)
Occupation: Architectural and Civil Drafters Education/Preparation: 3 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Architectural CAD Drafter (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Drafter); Architectural CAD Technician (Architectural Computer-Aided Design Technician); AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician); Civil CAD Designer (Civil Computer-Aided Design Designer)
Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers 3 Camera Prototyping Engineer
Occupation: Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers Education/Preparation: 3 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Camera Prototyping Engineer
Electrical and Electronics Drafters 3 AutoCAD Drafter; AutoCAD Technician; CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); Computer-Aided Design Designer (CAD Designer); Computer-Aided Design Technician (CAD Tech)
Occupation: Electrical and Electronics Drafters Education/Preparation: 3 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: AutoCAD Drafter; AutoCAD Technician; CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); Computer-Aided Design Designer (CAD Designer); Computer-Aided Design Technician (CAD Tech)
Fashion Designers 3 Product Designer
Occupation: Fashion Designers Education/Preparation: 3 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Product Designer
Mechanical Drafters 3 AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); AutoCAD Technician (Auto Computer-Aided Design Technician); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Operator (Computer Aided Design Operator); CAD Operator (Computer-Aided Design Operator); CAD Technician (Computer Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Mechanical Drafters Education/Preparation: 3 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: AutoCAD Designer (Auto Computer-Aided Design Designer); AutoCAD Drafter (Auto Computer-Aided Design Drafter); AutoCAD Technician (Auto Computer-Aided Design Technician); CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer); CAD Designer (Computer-Aided Design Designer); CAD Drafter (Computer Aided Design Drafter); CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter); CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman); CAD Draughter (Computer Aided Design Draughter); CAD Operator (Computer Aided Design Operator); CAD Operator (Computer-Aided Design Operator); CAD Technician (Computer Aided Design Technician)
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic 3 Prototype Fabricator; Prototype Model Maker; Prototype Special Build; Prototyper; Welding Prototype Operator
Occupation: Model Makers, Metal and Plastic Education/Preparation: 3 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Fabricator; Prototype Model Maker; Prototype Special Build; Prototyper; Welding Prototype Operator
Surveying and Mapping Technicians 3 Survey CAD Technician (Survey Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Surveying and Mapping Technicians Education/Preparation: 3 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Survey CAD Technician (Survey Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Carpenters 2 Prototype Carpenter
Occupation: Carpenters Education/Preparation: 2 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Carpenter
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers 2 CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer)
Occupation: Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers Education/Preparation: 2 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: CAD Programmer (Computer-Aided Design Programmer)
Dental Laboratory Technicians 2 CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Occupation: Dental Laboratory Technicians Education/Preparation: 2 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician)
Sewing Machine Operators 2 Prototype Sewer
Occupation: Sewing Machine Operators Education/Preparation: 2 Industrial Design Engineering-Related Jobs: Prototype Sewer

Scroll through the picklist (below). There are 38 specific Industrial Design Engineering job titles listed. Select those that may be of interest - you will get active job listing links, along with detailed resources to help you prepare for a career related to that job.
You can use this form two ways:

hidden filler

Filter - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles below

Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:



Select a Job Title (Scroll and Select) :

Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Find Job Listings: Electrical and Electronics Drafters.


Search results will open in a new tab.

Note: Job search results work best for U.S.-based locations. For international searches, try searching for "[job title] in [city, country]" directly on the selected job board, or visit their country-specific website.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career





Electrical and Electronics Drafters

Description: Prepare wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, and layout drawings used for the manufacture, installation, or repair of electrical equipment.

U.S. Total Employment (2023):
24,000
U.S. Total Employment (2033 est.):
24,500
Employment Change (2023-2033 est.):
600 (2.3%)
Average Annual Job Openings (2023-2033 est.):
2,300
Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "Electrical and Electronics Drafters":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Consult with engineers to discuss or interpret design concepts, or determine requirements of detailed working drawings.
Importance: 99 (%) Description: Draft working drawings, wiring diagrams, wiring connection specifications, or cross-sections of underground cables, as required for instructions to installation crew.
Importance: 98 (%) Description: Assemble documentation packages and produce drawing sets to be checked by an engineer or an architect.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Confer with engineering staff and other personnel to resolve problems.
Importance: 91 (%) Description: Review work orders or procedural manuals and confer with vendors or design staff to resolve problems or modify design.
Importance: 90 (%) Description: Draft detail and assembly drawings of design components, circuitry or printed circuit boards, using computer-assisted equipment or standard drafting techniques and devices.
Importance: 88 (%) Description: Draw master sketches to scale showing relation of proposed installations to existing facilities and exact specifications and dimensions.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Examine electronic schematics and supporting documents to develop, compute, and verify specifications for drafting data, such as configuration of parts, dimensions, or tolerances.
Importance: 82 (%) Description: Review completed construction drawings and cost estimates for accuracy and conformity to standards and regulations.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Locate files relating to specified design project in database library, load program into computer, and record completed job data.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Compare logic element configuration on display screen with engineering schematics and calculate figures to convert, redesign, or modify element.
Importance: 79 (%) Description: Reproduce working drawings on copy machines or trace drawings in ink.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Design electrical systems, such as lighting systems.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Explain drawings to production or construction teams and provide adjustments, as necessary.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Measure factors that affect installation and arrangement of equipment, such as distances to be spanned by wire and cable.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Review blueprints to determine customer requirements and consult with assembler regarding schematics, wiring procedures, or conductor paths.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Study work order requests to determine type of service, such as lighting or power, demanded by installation.
Supplemental Duties
Important Supplemental Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Determine the order of work and the method of presentation, such as orthographic or isometric drawing.
Importance: 57 (%) Description: Visit proposed installation sites and draw rough sketches of location.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Select drill size to drill test head, according to test design and specifications, and submit guide layout to designated department.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Supervise and coordinate work activities of workers engaged in drafting, designing layouts, assembling, or testing printed circuit boards.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Copy drawings of printed circuit board fabrication using print machine or blueprinting procedure.
Importance: 51 (%) Description: Key and program specified commands and engineering specifications into computer system to change functions and test final layout.
Importance: 50 (%) Description: Write technical reports and draw charts that display statistics and data.
Importance: 43 (%) Description: Train students to use drafting machines and to prepare schematic diagrams, block diagrams, control drawings, logic diagrams, integrated circuit drawings, or interconnection diagrams.
Importance: 32 (%) Description: Plot electrical test points on layout sheets and draw schematics for wiring test fixture heads to frames.
Importance: 31 (%) Description: Generate computer tapes of final layout design to produce layered photo masks or photo plotting design onto film.
Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 95 (%) Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 93 (%) Description: Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment: Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Importance: 91 (%) Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 87 (%) Description: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Processing Information: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Documenting/Recording Information: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events: Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information: Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Scheduling Work and Activities: Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Analyzing Data or Information: Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Communicating with People Outside the Organization: Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others: Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities
How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Collect data about project sites.
Confer with other personnel to resolve design or operational problems.
Confer with technical personnel to prepare designs or operational plans.
Create electrical schematics.
Create schematic drawings for electronics.
Design electrical equipment or systems.
Document technical design details.
Estimate technical or resource requirements for development or production projects.
Evaluate designs or specifications to ensure quality.
Explain engineering drawings, specifications, or other technical information.
Operate computer systems.
Operate digital imaging equipment.
Prepare detailed work plans.
Prepare technical reports for internal use.
Review technical documents to plan work.
Select tools, equipment, or technologies for use in operations or projects.
Supervise engineering or other technical personnel.
Train personnel on proper operational procedures.
Verify mathematical calculations.
Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 86 (%) Description: Design: Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Importance: 82 (%) Description: Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Administrative: Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Public Safety and Security: Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Geography: Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance)
These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Transferable Skills

Transferable Skills (in order of importance)
These are skills that can transfer across occupations and industries. For the Top 5 most important, how can you strengthen these skills now so they support both this career and future career flexibility?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Time Management: Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?
Activity: Communicate with others about specifications or project details.
Activity: Coordinate with others to resolve problems.
Activity: Create visual designs or displays.
Activity: Design electrical or electronic systems or equipment.
Activity: Determine resource needs of projects or operations.
Activity: Document technical designs, procedures, or activities.
Activity: Evaluate designs, specifications, or other technical data.
Activity: Evaluate the quality or accuracy of data.
Activity: Explain technical details of products or services.
Activity: Gather data about operational or development activities.
Activity: Operate computer systems or computerized equipment.
Activity: Plan work activities.
Activity: Present research or technical information.
Activity: Process digital or online data.
Activity: Read documents or materials to inform work processes.
Activity: Select materials or equipment for operations or projects.
Activity: Supervise personnel activities.
Activity: Train others on operational or work procedures.
Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?
High-Priority Tech Skills
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk AutoCAD
Autodesk Revit
Bentley MicroStation
Electronic mail software:
Microsoft Outlook
Office suite software:
Microsoft Office software
Spreadsheet software:
Microsoft Excel
Widely Used Tech Skills
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk Navisworks
NavisWorks Jetstream
Emerging Tech Skills
Analytical or scientific software:
The MathWorks MATLAB
Computer aided design CAD software:
Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
Data base user interface and query software:
Microsoft Access
Development environment software:
C
Document management software:
Microsoft SharePoint
Enterprise resource planning ERP software:
SAP software
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Adobe Illustrator
Object or component oriented development software:
C++
Perl
Python
Operating system software:
Linux
UNIX
Presentation software:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Process mapping and design software:
Microsoft Visio
Project management software:
Microsoft Project
Word processing software:
Microsoft Word
General Software Tools
Analytical or scientific software (scroll table below):
Cadence PSpice
MathWorks Simulink
Simulation program with integrated circuit emphasis SPICE
SKM Systems Analysis Power Tools
Very high speed integrated circuit VHSIC hardware description language VHDL simulation software
Application server software:
Linux Virtual Server
Computer aided design CAD software (scroll table below):
Aveva Group Plant Design Management System PDMS
Bentley AutoPLANT
Bentley I/RAS B
Bentley PlantSpace SupportModeler
Cadence OrCAD software
Cadence Virtuoso Layout Suite
COADE CADWorx P&ID
Computer aided design and drafting software CADD
Dassault Systemes CATIA
ECT International Raceway Multi-Pack
Field programmable gate array FPGA design software
Intergraph INtools
Mentor Graphics Expedition Enterprise
Mentor Graphics PADS
Mentor Graphics Xpedition xDX Designer
PTC Creo Parametric
PTC Pro/Cable
PTC Pro/Pipe
SofTech CADRA
UGS Solid Edge
Zuken CADSTAR
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software:
1CadCam Unigraphics
Data base user interface and query software:
Design specification database software
PCI Express PCIe
PEDYN P2000
Development environment software:
SystemVerilog
Tool command language Tcl
Verilog
Document management software:
PTC Windchill
Electronic mail software:
IBM Lotus Notes
Enterprise resource planning ERP software (scroll table below):
Bowen & Groves M1 ERP
Epicor Vantage ERP
Exact Software Macola ERP
Made2Manage Systems M2M ERP
Manufacturing resource planning MRP software
Sage ERP Accpac
SoftBrands Fourth Shift Edition
Geographic information system:
Geographic information system GIS systems
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Corel CorelDraw Graphics Suite
Industrial control software:
Programmable logic controller PLC software
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Operating system software:
Magellan Firmware
Project management software:
Bentley Systems ProjectWise
Oracle JD Edwards EnterpriseOne Project Management
PTC Pro/INTRALINK
Preparation Required
Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
Education Required

Education Required - by frequency of educational attainment
This shows you details about the level of education most commonly held by workers in this occupation. How can you begin planning the educational pathway that will prepare you best for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Education
Frequency of Attainment: 40.1 (%) Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 23.6 (%) Level of Education: Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree
Frequency of Attainment: 21.1 (%) Level of Education: Post-Secondary Certificate
Frequency of Attainment: 6.7 (%) Level of Education: Some College Courses
Frequency of Attainment: 6.1 (%) Level of Education: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)
Frequency of Attainment: 2.5 (%) Level of Education: Master's Degree
Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment
This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 29.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Frequency of Attainment: 24.0 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 15.2 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 12.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 6.8 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 10 years
Frequency of Attainment: 4.2 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months
Frequency of Attainment: 3.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Frequency of Attainment: 2.1 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 years, up to and including 8 years
Frequency of Attainment: 1.8 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 8 years, up to and including 10 years
Certifications
Certifications
These are examples of certifications that may be important for this occupation. How can you begin exploring which certifications fit your goals and what steps you would need to take to earn them?
Advanced Certified Interconnect Designer External Link
Autodesk Certified Professional in Revit for Electrical Design External Link
Certified Interconnect Designer External Link
Fusion 360 Certified User External Link
Job Listings
Job Listings and Similar Occupational Titles - scroll and click to identify common requirements, keywords, and skills in current job listings
Analog Design Engineer
Analog Integrated Circuits Design Engineer (Analog IC Design Engineer)
AutoCAD Drafter
AutoCAD Technician
CAD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design Drafter)
CAD Draftsman (Computer-Aided Design Draftsman)
CADD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design and Drafting Drafter)
Circuit Board Drafter
Circuit Designer
Computer-Aided Design Designer (CAD Designer)
Computer-Aided Design Operator
Computer-Aided Design Technician (CAD Tech)
Computer-Aided Drafting and Design Designer
Computer-Aided Drafting and Design Operator
Design Drafter
Designer
Distribution Designer
Drafter
Drafting Technician (Drafting Tech)
Electrical Computer-Aided Design and Drafting Technician (Electrical CADD Tech)
Electrical Computer-Aided Design Operator
Electrical Computer-Aided Drafting and Design Designer
Electrical Controls Designer
Electrical Design Technician
Electrical Designer
Electrical Distribution Designer
Electrical Drafter
Electrical Systems Drafter
Electromechanical Design Drafter
Electromechanisms Design Drafter
Electronic Drafter
Engineering Agent
Equipment Services Associate (ESA)
IC Layout Designer (Integrated Circuit Layout Designer)
Instrumentation Designer
Layout Designer
Line Staker
Mask Designer
Mask Layout Designer
Printed Circuit Board Designer (PCB Designer)
Printed Circuit Board Drafter (PCB Drafter)
Printed Circuit Board Draftsman (PCB Draftsman)
Printed Circuit Board Layout Designer (PCB Layout Designer)
Printed Circuit Designer
Staking Engineer
Staking Technician (Staking Tech)
Systems Designer
Test Fixture Designer
Related Careers to Consider


Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources

This section contains detailed external resources appropriate to "Electrical and Electronics Drafters". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.


Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.


Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.


Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.


Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.


Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Electrical and Electronics Drafters". Use these links to find a job.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Electrical and Electronics Drafters". Use these links to find a job.


Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.


Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): Electrical and Electronics Drafters


Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...


LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.


Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "Electrical and Electronics Drafters" occupation.






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