Industrial engineers determine the most effective ways for an organization to use the basic factors of production people, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service.

In order to do this, they plan equipment layout, workflow, and the means to prevent accidents, plan and oversee training programs, and develop ways to control product quality.

Factory automation has radically changed the industry. Today’s industrial engineer looks at the total manufacturing process through the use of computers. Computers are used for simulations, mathematical models, and descriptive charts.

They also develop wage and salary administration systems and job evaluation programs, and keep production records.

Due to industrial growth, more complex business operations, and greater use of automation in factories and offices, employment of industrial engineers is expected to grow about as fast as the average.

Because the main function of an industrial engineer is to make a higher quality product as efficiently as possible, their services should be in demand in the manufacturing sector as firms seek to reduce costs and increase productivity through scientific management.

Industrial engineers work closely with many people, including employees in all types of jobs, equipment and material suppliers and, sometimes, even the firm’s customers. Therefore, communication skills are critically important to gather information and effectively present findings and recommendations.

Problem solving and decision-making skills are also important.

Industrial engineers use drafting and drawing skills and should have knowledge of electronics, business administration, and computer science.

Additionally, they need knowledge of high-level math and sciences, engineering principles, and design. They should have a working knowledge of computers, electronics, and finance, and skills in technical writing, speaking, and computer use.

A bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, or a related engineering degree, is almost always essential for entering this occupation, although a few employers will consider applicants without engineering backgrounds.

In addition, many employers will hire only those who have at least two years’ successful experience in this field.

A graduate degree is required for university teaching.

Industrial engineers spend much of their time asking questions. They may talk with production workers, as well as technical or administrative staff. It is not unusual for these engineers to be involved in several projects at once. Therefore, they must be flexible enough to drop one and pick up another at a moment’s notice.

The job is not physically demanding, but frequently takes the engineer out of the office into production and manufacturing areas.