5 Augmented Reality Careers

What is augmented reality?

Augmented reality (AR) is a some kind of mix of virtual and physical worlds. It blends digital information with the real world, making it interactive. Utilizing software, applications, and devices like AR glasses, augmented reality adds digital content to what you see around you. This enriches the user experience and turns one’s immediate surroundings into an interactive learning environment which is particularly valuable in manufacturing and industry processes. It somehow shows how industrial users can integrate with machinery and systems and improve technology with the help of human creativity.

In this blog we will touch the key points that describe this AR, we will see how this reality has its positive impact on industry and overall humanity. We’ll introduce main skills and current professions that serve as a basis for developing top AR careers and we’ll see how the world’s rapid development dictates us to create these new specializations that in their turn lead to the creation of new career paths.

How does augmented reality work and what benefits does it have?

Augmented reality has a surprising ability to turn digital information into real-world objects creating our well-known 3D experience. But it doesn’t work alone. It is a big part of cloud-connected industry 4.0 ecosystem .

Augmented reality works this way:

An AR-enabled device like smart glasses, a tablet, or a smartphone with a camera, analyzes live video to recognize physical objects or surroundings, such as machinery or warehouse layouts.
A digital twin – a 3D digital replica of the object in the cloud – links the real and virtual worlds, gathering data from the physical object.
Then the device downloads information about the object from the cloud. This creates a mixed-reality 3D interface.
With real-time data streaming from the objects, users can engage with them by moving around and sending commands to the cloud via touch, voice, or gestures.

The key benefits of the AR include:

Improved product development – in this case designers, for example, are getting able to meet modern consumer demands and reduce costs associated with prototyping.
Simplified processes – Visualized workflows make it possible to make the whole process in a timely manner minimizing mistakes and errors.
Streamlined warehouse management – AR has the potential to streamline operations by exact time management, making the process more effective.
Increased worker engagement – AR is a new technology and therefore requires more engagement and increased efforts to handle all tasks.
Reduced risk – AR doesn’t nullify human facts or eliminate human participation. Instead, it creates a safe environment for people to practice tasks virtually without risk. This improves worker safety, inspection, training, and workflow.

We can surely say that by creating new specializations and developing certain skills, humanity will have the possibility to develop careers that exist in augmented reality.

The top 5 possible augmented careers are:

1. XR developer

Skills of computer science, software engineering and technical experience are estimated to be required for taking this role. Also, project management skills and relevant experience will be a plus. XR developers may need to be specialized in app development, game development, web development and will work in a developer role but in a virtual environment, creating unusual experiences. The job has 25% annual growth outlook.

2. XR designer

You’ll have 16% annual growth perspective in this role. XR designer needs to have excellent programming experience, skills in AR and VR (virtual reality), and should major in computer science.

XR designers are responsible for how an experience comes together by testing features ensuring smooth functionality of games, apps, and websites in augmented and virtual reality. They conduct tests, implement necessary adjustments, and ensure seamless navigation, interface, and interaction with AR and VR features.

3. AR project manager

AR project managers focus on development of digital products and projects utilizing AR technology managing the entire project lifecycle. These specialists often work as developers or engineers before taking on some management experience. This means that background in computer science and programming is also required.

4. AR technician

Troubleshooting of IT issues, user assistance, repair undertaking – all these tasks are covered by AR technician. AR technicians work specifically with AR technology. Parallel to the rapid development of IT and an increased number of organizations use AR to organize customer support services and conduct staff training. AR enables individuals to undergo training in real-world environments and on-site without the need to physically leave their workstations.

5. AR/VR Engineer

This is the most highly paid role in AR with potential of almost 25% career growth.

AR/VR engineers write, maintain, test, and debug software with the help of different programming languages. The software AR/VR engineers use XR tools and hardware to create XR experiences in video games, products, and entertainment, as well as in various industries, including health care and marketing.

Augmented reality industry is steadily expanding, offering promising career opportunities in extended reality. However, the approach varies depending on the specific field you wish to pursue. Developing technical expertise within your chosen area is crucial. For instance, aspiring VR engineers require different skills compared to VR project managers.

Nevertheless, it’s essential to cultivate AR, VR, and XR competencies along with proficiency in XR tools for any XR-related position. While many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree, entry-level roles provide an entry point into the industry. Additionally, pursuing relevant certifications, training, and self-directed study can enhance your qualifications and experience.

What skills are required to start AR career?

The skills are specific depending on the position you’re about to take. All skills are needed to develop in relation to AR, VR and XR.

AR skills include:

VR and AR software development
C++
Spatial modeling
UI/UX design
Machine learning
Programming
Version control
3D programming
Unity
Project Management

Summing up we can state that augmented reality revolutionizes how we interact with the world around us, bridging the gap between the physical and digital worlds. This blog explored the fundamentals of AR technology, its working principles, and main benefits it offers across industries. Additionally, it highlighted the top five augmented reality careers, emphasizing the essential skills and qualifications required for each role. Whether you’re a developer, designer, project manager, technician, or engineer, taking a career in augmented reality promises exciting opportunities for continuous growth and innovation. By enhancing your technical skills, staying abreast of industry trends, and pursuing relevant certifications, you can carve out a successful career path in this dynamic and transformative field.

In case you’re interested in augmented reality careers, you can start your career path now by mastering basic skills that will lead to major changes. By taking courses in Business Development Group you’ll master the knowledge you need, get respective certificates and be ready for your brighter future.