Manufacturing & Production
Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs
Toy
makers are responsible for designing, creating, development, assembling
and manufacture of toys.
This can involve anything from coming up with new ideas for toys to
overseeing the production process. They often have to be very
creative in order to come up with new designs for their toys.
Some may also work in retail toy stores or online.
ANZSCO ID: 2592
Alternative names: Toy
Designer, Toy Engineer, Play Engineer, Toy Mechanic,
Specialisations: Some Toy Makers make dolls, while
others make action figures or even stuffed animals.
Other jobs a toy maker might do:
Toy Engineer
Mold Maker
Pattern Maker
Knowledge, skills and attributes
- have a strong understanding of child development in order to be successful in their field.
- a passion for creativity, an artistic eye and making things
- commit time, effort, and creativity
- excellent creative abilities in order to design new and innovative toys
- a passion for toys
- work well with your hands
- have an eye for detail
- be able to translate one’s ideas into three-dimensional form
- good problem-solving skills are essential in order to be able to troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the manufacturing process
- strong communication and interpersonal skills in order to effectively manage a team of workers
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Did You Know? Arthur "Sawdust" Ross Taken directly from the Courier Mail 21 August 2016 Arthur "Sawdust” Ross, 76, has been creating traditional wooden toys for the past few years. He lives in Bundaberg, Queensland.  "I just love to take a piece of plain wood and make something out of it. I started making wooden toys about three years ago but I can also make furniture. I like to work with my hands. I was a butcher for 25 years but have always loved woodwork. I spend every day in my shed making traditional wooden toys and then I sell them at markets around the region.  I have never had a favourite toy but I have made a few semi-trailers which I really like. They take about three weeks to do and have been very popular. Whatever I make that turns out looking really good always gives me great satisfaction. I get my toy designs from various books. They have all the measurements and plans so I worked from those. What I love most about wood work and toy making is that it keeps my brain occupied and keeps my body up and moving."  |
Duties and Tasks
Toy makers typically have a wide range of responsibilities,
from designing new toys to overseeing production.
- designs, creates, and sells toys
- use a variety of materials and technology to create their products
- with sales and marketing teams to promote their products
- to be able to follow instructions carefully and meet deadlines
- researching new trends in the toy industry, designing new products, and overseeing the production of those products.
Working conditions
Toy makers typically work regular business hours, although they may occasionally need to work overtime to meet deadlines. The job can be stressful because of the tight deadlines. Toy makers typically work in manufacturing or design studios and work with a team of other designers or engineers. They may also work from home.
This job can be challenging, as toy makers must constantly come up with new ideas and designs to stay ahead of the competition. Toy makers also have to deal with criticism from customers, retailers, and other stakeholders.
Some toy makers may also travel to trade shows or visit retailers to promote their products.
Tools and technologies
They must also be able to use various tools and materials to create their designs. Toy Makers use a variety of materials to make their toys, including plastic, cloth, wood, and metal.
(Source:
Study Work Grow)
Education and training/entrance requirements
Toy makers typically have a background in industrial design, engineering, or another related field. It requires a lot of training and practice to perfect the craft. A toy maker career path is an excellent option for those who have a background in carpentry, woodworking, or engineering. Those with an artistic side may also enjoy creating prototypes and models for new toys.
To get started in the profession, most toy makers
complete a formal training program at a TAFE.
Toy-making programs typically last one or two years and cover topics
such as woodworking, molding and casting techniques, product design,
and assembly methods. Some programs also include coursework in
business and marketing principles. In addition, toy-making can be
learned through on-the-job training.
After completing a training program, many toy makers begin their
careers as assistants to more experienced professionals.
With experience, they may be promoted to lead positions or may start
their own toy-making businesses.
Lead positions in the field typically involve managing a team of
workers and overseeing the production process from start to finish.
Some lead workers also design toys or create prototypes for new
products.
Some toy makers have a degree in design, product design, engineering, or a related field and more recently in robotics.
(Source:
Art Career Project)
Employment Opportunities
There are plenty of opportunities for those interested in a career
in the toy maker industry. Toy makers are in high
demand due to the popularity of children’s toys. In addition,
advancements in technology have created more demand for toy makers.
The most important factor when seeking a position in this field is
to have a passion for working with children and bringing joy to
their lives. Look for jobs in the industry as an
intern or assistant designer. Build up your portfolio by creating
your own designs and prototypes. Network with other toy makers and
professionals in the industry. Land a job at a toy company or design
firm.
Keep learning and developing your skills to stay ahead of the
competition.
Positions in the toy maker industry can be found in factories, retail stores, online businesses, and even in research and development.
Once you have mastered the art of making toys, you will need to
market your products and sell them to customers.
Material sourced from
My Job Search [Toy Maker;
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