Industrial Engineers
Overview
Introduction
Industrial engineers use their knowledge of various disciplines—including systems engineering, management science, operations research, and fields such as ergonomics—to determine the most efficient and cost-effective methods for industrial production. They design systems that integrate materials, equipment, information, and people in the overall production process. Approximately 284,600 industrial engineers are employed in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average starting salary for engineers with a bachelor's degree in engineering was $69,961 in Fall/Winter 2019.
The mean annual wage for industrial engineers was $87,040 in May 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The lowest paid 10 percent of all industrial engineers...
Work Environment
Industrial engineers usually work in offices at desks and computers, designing and evaluating plans, statistics, and other documents. Overall, industrial engineering is ranked above other engineering disciplines for factors such as employment outlook, salary, and physical environment. However, industrial engineering jobs are considered stressful because they often entail tight deadlines and dem...
Outlook
Employment for industrial engineers is expected to grow by 8 percent (faster than the average for all careers) through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Industrial engineers have a diverse skill set that keeps them in strong demand in a variety of industries. They will continue to be needed as manufacturing and other sectors strive to make their production processes more effectiv...
