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Design Digital Fabrication Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OPT Industries, Inc.

Computational Design

Medford, MA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Create design at the intersection of computational geometries, bio-inspired material and digital fabrication. * Explore new applications and potential of the next generation AM. Responsibilities

OPT Industries, Inc.

Computational Design

Medford, MA · On-site

Create design at the intersection of computational geometries, bio-inspired material and digital fabrication. * Explore new applications and potential of the next generation AM. Responsibilities

Hamilton County Schools

eLab Teacher

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Facilitate students, families, and community members as they learn design thinking techniques and various digital fabrication software to examine complex problems and prototype solutions. * Safely ...

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Design Digital Fabrication information

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$80.5K

$139.4K

$182.5K

How much do design digital fabrication jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for design digital fabrication in the United States is $139,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,000.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is digital fabrication in design?

Digital fabrication in design refers to the process of using computer-controlled tools and machinery—such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines—to turn digital models into physical objects. Designers use specialized software to create precise models, which are then fabricated through automated processes. This approach allows for rapid prototyping, customization, and complex geometries that are difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional methods. Digital fabrication is widely used in fields like architecture, product design, and engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design digital fabrication professional?

To thrive as a Design Digital Fabrication professional, you need strong abilities in 3D modeling, CAD software, and a solid understanding of material properties, often supported by a degree in industrial design, engineering, or architecture. Proficiency with digital fabrication tools such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and laser cutters, as well as software like Rhino, Fusion 360, or SolidWorks, is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective problem-solving and communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies are vital for transforming design concepts into precise, manufacturable products and collaborating efficiently within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced in a design digital fabrication role, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in Design Digital Fabrication often encounter challenges such as translating creative concepts into functional, manufacturable products and ensuring seamless communication between design and engineering teams. Navigating the limitations and capabilities of digital fabrication tools (like 3D printers, CNC machines, and laser cutters) is another frequent hurdle. Staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving software and hardware is key, as is developing strong collaboration skills to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams. Proactively seeking feedback, participating in prototyping sessions, and continuous learning can help overcome these challenges and lead to more successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Design Digital Fabrication vs Digital Fabrication Technician?

AspectDesign Digital FabricationDigital Fabrication Technician
CredentialsDesign degrees, CAD/CAM skillsTechnical certifications, hands-on skills
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, fabrication labsManufacturing facilities, workshops
Industry UsageDesign firms, architecture, product designManufacturing, prototyping, production

Design Digital Fabrication involves creating digital models and overseeing the fabrication process, focusing on design intent and digital workflows. Digital Fabrication Technicians operate fabrication equipment directly, executing the technical aspects of manufacturing. While both roles require technical skills, Design Digital Fabrication emphasizes design and digital tools, whereas Digital Fabrication Technicians focus on hands-on fabrication and machine operation.

Infographic showing various Design Digital Fabrication job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,368 per year, or $67 per hour.

CAD / Production Design Technician

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

Darnell Technical Services
Specialized Design Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Darnell Technical Servicesexternal

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

We are looking for an experienced CAD/CAM Production Designer / Technician to join a specialized custom fabrication shop in Orange, CA. This is a hands on shop environment producing high quality custom components for the marine industry.

The primary focus of this position is CAD design, digital file preparation, and production accuracy. The ideal candidate understands how to take customer artwork, measurements, scans, lettering, or custom designs and convert them into clean, accurate, fabrication-ready files.

Responsibilities
Create and edit primarily 2D CAD drawings for custom fabrication projects.
Convert customer designs, artwork, measurements, and scan data into production-ready files.
Clean up geometry, curves, radiuses, dimensions, lettering, and cut paths prior to fabrication.
Prepare and export DXF and other fabrication files for CNC, laser, and waterjet cutting.
Ensure files sent to outside waterjet vendors are properly formatted, scaled, and ready for production.
Assist with custom lettering, dimensional components, and flooring patterns.
Review designs carefully for accuracy before releasing them to production.
Make revisions and adjustments based on customer or production requirements.
Utilize Rhino and/or comparable CAD/CAM software and Adobe/design programs as needed.
Operate CNC and laser-cutting equipment as needed; machine operation is a secondary component of the position.
Ideal Candidate
The strongest candidate will have previous experience in CAD/CAM, CNC fabrication, custom manufacturing, signage, architectural fabrication, metal/plastic fabrication, millwork, marine fabrication, or a similar production environment.

Candidates should understand the complete workflow from digital design to a physically fabricated part and be comfortable troubleshooting files before they reach the machine.

Qualifications
Strong 2D CAD and digital drafting/editing skills.
Experience preparing files for CNC, laser, waterjet, or similar fabrication processes.
Working knowledge of DXF files and production file conversion/export.
Rhino experience is highly preferred; experience with comparable CAD/CAM programs will also be considered.
Excellent attention to detail, particularly with lettering, dimensions, curves, scale, and geometry.
Ability to work independently in an on-site fabrication/shop environment.
CNC and laser equipment experience is a plus.
Marine industry experience is helpful but not required.
The priority for this position is CAD and digital production accuracy. We are looking for someone who understands how to create clean, reliable files that translate correctly from the computer to the finished fabricated product.