1

Industrial Design Student Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Adjunct Faculty in Industrial Design Full-time Faculty Positions Full-time faculty positions will ... Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university ...

Gentex Corporation is currently seeking an Industrial Design intern for the Fall 2026. Our internship program allows students the opportunity to obtain valuable, applicable work experience in a fast ...

Gentex Corporation is currently seeking an Industrial Design intern for the Fall 2026. Our internship program allows students the opportunity to obtain valuable, applicable work experience in a fast ...

These may include areas of Architecture, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Fashion Design and ... Participating in department and college service, including but not limited to student advisement ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Industrial Design Student information

See salary details

$13

$21

$35

How much do industrial design student jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for industrial design student in the United States is $21.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace industrial designer?

AI tools can assist industrial designers by automating repetitive tasks and generating design options, but they are unlikely to fully replace the role. Industrial design requires creativity, user understanding, and problem-solving skills that currently rely on human insight and expertise. Professionals in this field will need to adapt by integrating AI into their workflows and focusing on areas that require human judgment.

Is it hard to get a job in industrial design?

Getting a job in industrial design can be competitive, as it often requires a strong portfolio, proficiency in design software, and relevant internships or experience. Entry-level positions may be accessible with a relevant degree and creative skills, but advancing in the field typically involves building a diverse portfolio and networking.

What do industrial design students do?

Industrial design students learn to develop and create product concepts, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and user experience. They often use tools like CAD software, work on prototypes, and apply design principles to solve real-world problems during their studies.

What types of projects can Industrial Design Students expect to work on during internships or entry-level positions?

Industrial Design Students often participate in a variety of hands-on projects, such as concept development, 3D modeling, prototyping, and user research. These projects typically involve collaborating with engineers, marketing teams, and other designers to create solutions for consumer products or industrial equipment. Students may also contribute to brainstorming sessions, assist in preparing presentations for clients, and support user-testing processes. This exposure helps build practical skills while offering valuable insight into the collaborative nature of the industrial design field.

What is the difference between Industrial Design Student vs Industrial Designer?

AspectIndustrial Design StudentIndustrial Designer
CredentialsEnrolled in a degree program, often pursuing a bachelor's or master's in industrial design or related fieldsTypically holds a degree in industrial design or a related field; may have professional certifications
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, internships, or entry-level projectsProfessional studios, corporate design teams, or freelance work
Industry UsagePrimarily in educational and internship contextsInvolved in real-world product development, client projects, and manufacturing collaboration

In summary, an Industrial Design Student is in training and gaining foundational knowledge, while an Industrial Designer is a professional actively creating and managing product designs in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Industrial Design Student, and why are they important?

To excel as an Industrial Design Student, you need a strong foundation in design principles, creative problem-solving, and proficiency in sketching and prototyping, typically supported by enrollment in a design or related degree program. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or Rhino), 3D modeling, and rendering tools is essential for developing and presenting design concepts. Collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication help students work successfully in team projects and present ideas clearly. These skills and qualities ensure students can turn innovative ideas into functional, user-centered designs while meeting project deadlines and expectations.

Is a degree in industrial design worth it?

A degree in industrial design provides foundational skills in product development, 3D modeling, and user-centered design, which are valuable for entry-level roles in the field. It can improve job prospects and earning potential, but practical experience and a strong portfolio are also important for success in industrial design careers.

What are industrial design students?

Industrial design students are individuals who are studying the process of designing products, systems, or experiences that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They learn how to combine art, business, and engineering to create items like furniture, electronics, vehicles, and consumer goods. Their education typically covers areas such as user research, sketching, 3D modeling, prototyping, and materials science. Through projects and internships, they gain practical experience to prepare for careers as professional industrial designers.
More about Industrial Design Student jobs
Infographic showing various Industrial Design Student job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,888 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Industrial Design Co-op - Fall 2026

Industrial Design Co-op - Fall 2026

The Hillman Group, Inc.

Forest Park, OH • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


The Hillman Group rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 338 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

Company Description
Hillman is a $1.3B leader in complete hardware solutions, delivered with industry-best customer service to over 26,000 customers including Lowe's, Home Depot, Walmart, and Amazon. Hillman designs innovative products and merchandising solutions for complex categories that deliver outstanding customer experiences. Leveraging a world-class distribution and sales network, Hillman delivers a "small business" experience with "big business" efficiency.
Job Summary
Hillman is seeking two (2) Industrial Design Co-op students for Fall 2026. One position will support our Hardware Solutions team, and the other will support our Everyday Solutions team. These roles provide hands-on experience in product design, packaging, and innovation while offering exposure to key design processes and cross-functional collaboration. This is a full-time, hybrid position (40 hours/week). A portfolio is required for consideration.
Essential Job Functions*
  • Contribute to ideation with design, marketing, and engineering teams to inspire and facilitate new product concepts.
  • Communicate design intent through hand sketching, digital sketching, CAD modeling, and rendering.
  • Assist in user research, trend identification, and innovation workshops to uncover opportunities within product categories.
  • Produce design documentation to communicate concept direction to cross-functional partners.
  • Apply both critical and creative thinking to solve consumer, customer, and business challenges.
  • Maintain a positive, collaborative attitude and contribute to team and company success.

*This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Employees are expected and encouraged to participate in safety and health program activities including immediately reporting hazards, immediately reporting unsafe work practices and incidents to supervisors, wearing required personal protective equipment, and participating in and supporting safety committee activities.
Education & Experience
  • Currently enrolled in an accredited Industrial Design program.
  • Experience in product and/or packaging design preferred but not required.
  • Experience with innovation or design thinking methodologies preferred but not required.
  • A portfolio demonstrating design skills is required.

Competencies - Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Exceptional visual communication skills, including analog and digital sketching.
  • Strong proficiency in 3D CAD and rendering tools (SolidWorks, Rhino3D, KeyShot).
  • Strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
  • High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to collaborate in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
  • Ability to balance creativity with practical problem-solving.

Operational Equipment
  • NA

Work Environment and Physical Demands
Work Environment
Office: Office setting. Seldom exposed to fumes or airborne particles. Loud working environment of the shop area. Functional vision and hearing required.
Physical Demands
Office: Sedentary.
The Hillman Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, protected veteran or military status, genetic information, citizenship status, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity and maintain employment statistics on applicants.

What The Hillman Group employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom