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Industrial designer
Industrial designers develop designs for a range of practical products that are used in healthcare, commercial, domestic and industrial situations. They also create prototypes of these designs with a view towards mass production. They assess the design needs of their client, research and develop products, analyse the various costing, material, production and technological options for their designs, as well as bearing in mind fashion and marketing trends. They also supervise the construction of design models, and may also undertake some administrative tasks when necessary.
Working conditions
Industrial designers usually work in offices, design studios or workshops. Their workspaces need to be spacious and well-lit. They work regular hours, but may be required to work longer hours when working to a deadline. Industrial designers may travel locally, interstate or overseas to view new design ideas or to attend conferences.
In the health and medical life sciences industry, industrial designers develop innovative designs for products and devices that support patient care, clinical practice and medical research. They assess design requirements, conduct thorough research, and develop concepts that balance functionality with user needs. Their work involves analysing materials, production methods, costs and emerging technologies to identify the most effective solutions. From there, they build prototypes aimed at safe, efficient and scalable production, ensuring designs meet rigorous quality and regulatory standards.
Tools and technologies
Industrial designers spend a lot of time on computers, especially using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and other two or three-dimensional design programs. They use model-building equipment and materials, drawing boards, desks and art supplies for sketching, and may also use other office equipment such as telephones, faxes and photocopiers.
Industrial Designers in the health and medical life sciences industry work in medical technology companies, research institutions, and contract research organisations (CROs). They use computer-aided design (CAD) software and other advanced two and three-dimensional design programs. To transform these digital concepts into tangible prototypes, they make extensive use of 3D printers and CNC machines, which allow for rapid and precise model making.
Education and training
To become an industrial designer, you typically need a university degree major in design, industrial design or a related area. Curtin University, Edith Cowan University (ECU) and the University of Western Australia (UWA) offer courses in this field.
For details on course structure, entry requirements and application deadlines, please contact the educational institutions directly.
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