Job Details

What Does it Take to Be an Industrial Engineer?

Industrial Engineer Definition: Design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes, including human work factors, quality control, inventory control, logistics and material flow, cost analysis, and production coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft and design layout of equipment, materials, and workspace to illustrate maximum efficiency using drafting tools and computer.
• Formulate sampling procedures and designs and develop forms and instructions for recording, evaluating, and reporting quality and reliability data.
• Plan and establish sequence of operations to fabricate and assemble parts or products and to promote efficient utilization.
• Develop manufacturing methods, labor utilization standards, and cost analysis systems to promote efficient staff and facility utilization.
• Confer with clients, vendors, staff, and management personnel regarding purchases, product and production specifications, manufacturing capabilities, or project status.
• Analyze statistical data and product specifications to determine standards and establish quality and reliability objectives of finished product.

Essential Skills

These are the skills Industrial Engineers say are the most useful in their careers:

• Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
• Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

How Much Does an Industrial Engineer Make?

The salary for Industrial Engineers ranges between about $56,470 and $132,340 a year.

Industrial Engineers who work in Wyoming, Washington, or Texas make the highest salaries.

How to Become an Industrial Engineer

Education needed to be an Industrial Engineer:

What work experience do I need to become an Industrial Engineer?

Where do Industrial Engineers Work?

The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.