Job Title Definitions

Freelance / Independent
An independent designer, working a\primarily off site. People like this are usually paid as 1099 independent contractors, and many times run their own business.

Principal / Partner / Owner
One of the top management positions within a design firm. Responsible for stregic decisions regarding the business, operations, personnel or creative output.

Creative / Design Director
Responsible for setting the strategic design direction for a firm or a department. Often manages several people directly, and reports directly to senior management.

Art Director
Responsible for direction of creative staff within a firm or department. Art directors establish creative standards and work with vendors.

Designer (senior level)
A top design position directly invloved with production work. Manages several projects concurrently and usually has several years experience.

Designer (mid level)
A designer responsible for production work on a variety of projects.

Designer (entry level)
A production design position for people with little experience. Often this position is for recent college graduates.

Production
This position may be filled by a designer or non-designer, depending on the firm and the type of work invloved.

Front End Developer
A person responsible for developing and implementing computer interfaces. This person is usually very familiar with a variety of technologies, and works with designers implementing their work.

Model Maker
A position specifically responsible for creation of 3D models and prototypes.

CAD Operator
Any position responsible for creating computer files of 3D designs. This person may use one or more types of software, and may produce renderings or engineering drawings as a deliverable.

Engineer
This position is a technical role in the product development cycle. Sometimes called a "design engineer", this person will usually have experience with a variety of manufacturing processes, materials and technologies.

Back End Developer
A technical position, sometimes called "software engineer". This person may be a database developer, or have knowledge of other more technical systems than a front-end developer.

Researcher
A person responsible for doing research and analysis as part of the design process. This can include market research, interviews, focus groups, and usually involves extensive documentation.

Project Manager
A person responsible for managing an entire project, including budgets, deliverables, personnel and vendors. Depending on the size of the project there may be more than one or more than one level of project manager.

Producer
A person responsible for aquiring assets for a project, and making sure everyone involved has everything they need at all times.