Designers prepare handmade or computer-generated drafts. The majority utilize computer-aided design (CAD) technology. Designers require updated telecommunications and computer technology.
In most cases, designers specialize. Many have multiple specialties. The following is a list of different types of designers and what they do:
Commercial and industrial designers design consumer products
Fashion designers design clothes, such as shirts, hats, and pants
Floral designers prepare bouquets with artificial or real flowers
Graphic designers utilize software to prepare layouts for web sites and print publications
Interior designers decorate and organize rooms within offices, businesses, and homes
Merchandise display designers,visual merchandisers, or window dressers, determine what to display in store windows
Set and exhibit designers prepare sets seen in motion pictures, TV shows, and theaters.
Designers may conduct their work in their customers’ homes or businesses, or at the office of the company employing them. They usually plan their days to accommodate their customers’ requests. It is not uncommon for designers to work long days or work during nights and the weekend to reach deadlines. Some designers may be required to travel to fulfill their clients' needs.
How do you prepare for this career?
The education needed for a designer career can vary widely depending upon the specialty. Fashion and floral designers may only require high school diplomas, while graphic, industrial and interior designers may all require a bachelor's degree in a related field. Specialties may also be gained through certificate and associate degree programs.
How much will I earn?
Salaries vary widely depending upon the specialties. The following is a list of the median annual salary of several major specialties in design (as of 2010, from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics):
Commercial and Industrial Designers - $58,230
Fashion Designers - $64,530
Floral Designers - $23,610
Graphic Designers - $43,500
Interior Designers - $46,280
Set and Exhibit Designers - $46,680
How many jobs are there?
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, these were the number of designers employed in the United States in 2010, based on specialty:
Commercial and Industrial Designers - 40,800
Fashion Designers - 21,500
Floral Designers - 66,500
Graphic Designers - 279,200
Interior Designers - 56,500
Set and Exhibit Designers - 11,700
What is the future outlook for this career?
Almost all of the aforementioned specialties are expected to growth at an average rate of all occupations until 2020. The only exceptions are floral designers, whose job growth is expected to decline by 9 percent, and fashion designers, who will experience no change in growth.
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