How many industrial engineers are there

Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 29, industrial engineers. That number is based on 25, additional industrial engineers, and the retirement of 4, existing industrial engineers.

Demand and job growth for industrial engineers is projected to be sluggish at best, largely because the manufacturing industries which employ most of them continue to either decline or grow very slowly. However, because they are not as specialized as other engineers, industrial engineers are able to widely apply their expertise in devising efficient systems, raising productivity, and reducing internal costs.

This versatility ensures that they are able to find opportunities outside of manufacturing, in consulting and engineering services; research and development firms; wholesale trade; government; and in the non-profit sector.

Because their work is similar to what is done in many management jobs, it is not uncommon for industrial engineers to leave the occupation for managerial positions. However, many industrial engineers have degrees in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering technology, or general engineering.

Students interested in studying industrial engineering should take high school courses in mathematics, such as algebra, trigonometry, and calculus; computer science; and sciences such as chemistry and physics. Advancement Industrial engineers who are just starting out usually work under the supervision of experienced engineers. In large companies, new engineers also may receive formal training in classes or seminars. As beginning engineers gain knowledge and experience, they move on to more difficult projects with greater independence to develop designs, solve problems, and make decisions.

A Professional Engineering PE license, which allows for higher levels of leadership and independence, can be acquired later in ones career. Job Outlook Employment of industrial engineers is projected to grow 10 percent from to , faster than the average for all occupations.

Read More. Related Military Careers Civil Engineers. Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Fleet Maintenance Managers. State-by-state Salary.