While originally focused on
streamlining manufacturing processes,
the field of industrial engineering
now improves processes and systems
in virtually all industries,
to make them more efficient,
yielding less waste, and costing less.
To maximize efficiency,
industrial engineers balance many factors
such as the number and type of workers
involved in a process, available equipment,
safety, environmental impact, and cost.
They might design faster production methods…
choose new materials
to make longer-lasting products…
or devise ways to move customers
through a line faster at an amusement park.
Some engineers focus entirely on
automated manufacturing
and work with robots and computer networks.
Industrial engineers often rely on teams
to identify problems
and solutions in their work.
They generally work in offices…
or travel to the settings they are analyzing
to identify improvements.
For example, they may watch workers
assemble parts in a factory,
then return to an office
to analyze the data they have collected.
Most industrial engineers work full time,
but hours may vary
depending on the needs
of specific projects.
Industrial engineers need a bachelor’s degree,
in industrial engineering
or a related engineering field.
Employers value practical experience
in the field,
which many programs offer
as part of a degree program.