Industrial Engineers
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Also known as:
Efficiency Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Packaging Engineer, Production Engineer
Finding the most effective way to produce a product or service is the job of industrial engineers. They are the bridge between management goals and the work that must be done to achieve those goals. They solve problems by combining production resources: people, machines, materials, information, and energy.
They use mathematical techniques, expert computer systems, cost analysis, financial planning, quality control and complex distribution plans to improve profits. A bachelor's degree is minimal, but a master's degree or Ph.D. commands more respect in the marketplace.
Students who are good at problem solving, mathematics, computer applications, science and systems analysis may want to pursue this career. Although they usually work in comfortable office surroundings, industrial engineers may spend days observing problems and testing strategies in plants and distribution centers. They may also travel a great deal.
Experienced industrial engineers, who successfully pursue opportunities in management science, can rise to upper levels of strategic planning and management.
| Leadership | HIGH |
| Critical decision making | HIGH |
| Level of responsibilities | HIGH |
| Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines | HIGH |
| Dealing and handling conflict | LOW |
| Competition for this position | HIGH |
| Communication with others | HIGH |
| Work closely with team members, clients etc. | HIGH |
| Comfort of the work setting | HIGH |
| Exposure to extreme environmental conditions | LOW |
| Exposure to job hazards | LOW |
| Physical demands | LOW |
Formulate sampling procedures and designs and develop forms and instructions for recording, evaluating, and reporting quality and reliability data.
Coordinate and implement quality control objectives, activities, or procedures to resolve production problems, maximize product reliability, or minimize costs.
Implement methods and procedures for disposition of discrepant material and defective or damaged parts, and assess cost and responsibility.
Draft and design layout of equipment, materials, and workspace to illustrate maximum efficiency using drafting tools and computer.
Develop manufacturing methods, labor utilization standards, and cost analysis systems to promote efficient staff and facility utilization.
Study operations sequence, material flow, functional statements, organization charts, and project information to determine worker functions and responsibilities.
Complete production reports, purchase orders, and material, tool, and equipment lists.
Review production schedules, engineering specifications, orders, and related information to obtain knowledge of manufacturing methods, procedures, and activities.
Recommend methods for improving utilization of personnel, material, and utilities.
Evaluate precision and accuracy of production and testing equipment and engineering drawings to formulate corrective action plan.
Analyze statistical data and product specifications to determine standards and establish quality and reliability objectives of finished product.
| Making Decisions and Solving Problems | Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. |
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| Interacting With Computers | Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. |
| Getting Information | Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. |
| Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates | Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. |
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| Thinking Creatively | Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions. |
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| Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events | Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events. |
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| Processing Information | Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. |
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| Analyzing Data or Information | Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. |
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| Engineering and Technology | Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services. |
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| Production and Processing | Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. |
| Mechanical | Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. |
| Design | Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models. |
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| English Language | Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. |
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| Mathematics | Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. |
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| Computers and Electronics | Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming. |
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| Administration and Management | Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. |
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| Critical Thinking | Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. |
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| Reading Comprehension | Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents. |
| 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. |
| Speaking | Talking to others to convey information effectively. |
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| Complex Problem Solving | Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions. |
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| Writing | Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience. |
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| Monitoring | Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action. |
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| Systems Evaluation | Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system. |
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