How much does a Technical Designer make?
Technical Designers play a key role in many industries, including architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. They create detailed drawings and plans that guide the production of products and structures. The average yearly salary for a Technical Designer is around $71,041. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
The salary range for Technical Designers can be quite broad. At the lower end, some designers earn around $38,000 per year. As experience grows, salaries can increase significantly. The highest earners in this field can make over $140,000 annually. Factors such as advanced skills, specialized knowledge, and working in high-demand areas can lead to higher pay. Technical Designers who work in urban areas or industries with high competition for talent often see higher salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Technical Designer?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $126,095
In San Diego, a Technical Designer can expect to work in a vibrant tech scene. Companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms offer exciting opportunities. The city's mild climate makes it a pleasant place to live and work.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $98,715
Austin is known for its booming tech industry. A Technical Designer here will find many startups and established companies like Dell and Apple. The city's lively culture adds to the professional experience.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $96,388
San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for Technical Designers. Tech giants like Google and Salesforce are prominent employers. The city's innovative spirit drives creativity and growth in the industry.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $92,812
Seattle is a hub for tech innovation. Technical Designers here work with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. The city's scenic beauty and outdoor activities provide a great work-life balance.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $89,666
Philadelphia offers a mix of historic charm and modern tech opportunities. Technical Designers can find roles with companies like Comcast and Johnson & Johnson. The city's rich culture enhances the professional experience.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $88,026
Phoenix is a growing tech center with opportunities for Technical Designers. Companies like Intel and Honeywell are hiring. The city's warm climate and outdoor lifestyle make it an attractive place to work.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $87,827
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley. Technical Designers here work with tech giants like Apple and Google. The city's vibrant tech community offers endless opportunities for growth and innovation.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $83,700
Miami offers a unique blend of beach culture and tech opportunities. Technical Designers can find roles with companies like Carnival Corporation and Knight Foundation. The city's diverse culture adds to the professional experience.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $83,314
Colorado Springs is a tech hub with a focus on defense and aerospace. Technical Designers here work with companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. The city's beautiful landscapes provide a great backdrop for work and leisure.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $82,423
Los Angeles offers a diverse range of tech opportunities. Technical Designers can find roles with companies like Disney and Warner Bros. The city's entertainment industry adds a unique flavor to the professional experience.
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What are the best companies a Technical Designer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $185,759
Apple offers exciting opportunities for Technical Designers. They work on innovative projects in locations like Cupertino, California, and Austin, Texas. Apple values creativity and technical skills, making it a top choice for many designers.
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Blue Origin
Average Salary: $98,116
Blue Origin provides a dynamic environment for Technical Designers. They focus on space exploration and operate in Kent, Washington. Designers here get to work on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of technology.
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Dogwood Industries, LLC
Average Salary: $83,769
Dogwood Industries, LLC offers rewarding roles for Technical Designers. They work in various locations, including Atlanta, Georgia. The company values teamwork and innovation, providing a supportive environment for growth.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $82,583
Boeing is a leader in aerospace and defense. Technical Designers here work in locations like Seattle, Washington, and St. Louis, Missouri. They contribute to projects that shape the future of aviation and space travel.
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Medtronic
Average Salary: $81,991
Medtronic offers diverse opportunities for Technical Designers. They work in medical technology and operate in cities like Minneapolis, Minnesota. Designers here focus on creating life-changing medical devices.
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PBK Architects
Average Salary: $68,862
PBK Architects provides a creative space for Technical Designers. They work in locations like Portland, Oregon. The company values design excellence and offers a collaborative environment for professional growth.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $63,093
Express Employment Professionals offers various roles for Technical Designers. They operate in multiple locations across the country. The company focuses on matching designers with the right opportunities for their skills.
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Primoris Services Corporation
Average Salary: $58,750
Primoris Services Corporation provides a stable environment for Technical Designers. They work in various locations, including Houston, Texas. The company offers opportunities in infrastructure and construction projects.
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Firstlight
Average Salary: $55,000
Firstlight offers a supportive environment for Technical Designers. They operate in locations like Boston, Massachusetts. The company focuses on providing quality services and supports professional development.
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ENTRUST Solutions Group
Average Salary: $54,127
ENTRUST Solutions Group offers opportunities for Technical Designers. They work in locations like Washington, D.C. The company focuses on providing innovative solutions and supports career growth.
How to earn more as a Technical Designer?
A Technical Designer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. These include gaining specialized skills, obtaining relevant certifications, and expanding their professional network. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in enhancing a Technical Designer's market value and opening up higher-paying opportunities.
First, acquiring specialized skills can significantly boost a Technical Designer's earning potential. Skills such as proficiency in advanced design software, knowledge of 3D modeling, and expertise in CAD can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Second, obtaining relevant certifications can demonstrate a commitment to professional development. Certifications in areas like sustainable design or project management can set a Technical Designer apart from their peers. Third, expanding the professional network can lead to more job opportunities. Attending industry conferences, joining professional associations, and connecting with other professionals on platforms like LinkedIn can open doors to higher-paying positions. Fourth, gaining experience in different industries can make a Technical Designer more versatile and valuable. Experience in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, or consumer electronics can provide a broader skill set and increase earning potential. Finally, continuously learning and staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in the field can help a Technical Designer remain competitive and command higher salaries.
To summarize, Technical Designers can increase their earnings by:
- Gaining specialized skills
- Obtaining relevant certifications
- Expanding the professional network
- Gaining experience in different industries
- Continuously learning and staying updated with trends