Industrial Designers


Arts, Audio/Visual Technology, and Communications > Industrial Designers > Working Conditions
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Industrial Designers

Industrial Designers - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, industrial designers:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Communicate daily by e-mail, over the phone and in person. Occasionally write letters and memos.
  • Work closely with clients and staff, but sometimes work alone when researching and designing products.
  • Usually work as part of a larger design team. May be responsible for work done by design assistants.
  • Some responsibility for the health and safety of coworkers and team members.
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  • Occasionally are placed in conflict situations in which others may be rude or angry.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Almost always work indoors.
  • Work near others, usually in shared office space.
  • Are sometimes exposed to loud noises, especially when visiting a factory. Occasionally required to wear safety attire on such visits.

Work Performance

  • Must be very exact in their work. Errors could result in serious safety hazards for product users.
  • Frequently make decisions that affect coworkers and clients. Some decisions are made without talking to a supervisor first.
  • Set most of their daily tasks and goals.
  • Must meet strict daily deadlines. This may make the work atmosphere somewhat competitive.
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  • Often repeat the same mental tasks.

Hours/Travel

  • Most work full time, 40 hours per week. Many work overtime to meet deadlines and production demands.
  • Usually work regular hours, but may work irregular hours.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.