How to Become an industrial engineer

Steps to Become an industrial engineer

1. Earn a degree

   To begin your Industrial Engineer career path, a Bachelor's Degree in industrial engineering or a related field is usually necessary in order to remain a competitive option for employers. Focus on industry-specific skill development during your education in order to be properly equipped when applying for entry-level positions and entering the job force. An Industrial Engineer internship may be required to earn your Bachelor's Degree and acquire necessary on-the-job skills before entering the workforce.

2. Choose speciality

   As an Industrial Engineer, you may be required to choose a specialty within your field. Determine which part of the Industrial Engineer field you feel strongest in, and continue taking active steps toward growing in your chosen Industrial Engineer specialty.

3. Get an entry level

   Once you've acquired a Bachelor's Degree in industrial engineering or a related field, you'll typically begin your career as an entry-level Industrial Engineer. In general, you can become an Industrial Engineer after completing your 4 year Bachelor's Degree in a related discipline. Depending on the type of Industrial Engineer role you’re pursuing, you may want to explore certification in certified in modapts, certified industrial hygienist.

4. Advance in career

   Following entry-level, there are several Industrial Engineer career path levels to advance into. It can take 2 years as an entry-level Industrial Engineer to progress to the senior industrial engineer position. Each advanced Industrial Engineer position requires approximately 2 years of experience at each level to advance in your Industrial Engineer career path. It may be necessary to receive additional education, an advanced degree such as a Master's Degree in a related field, or special certifications in order to advance your Industrial Engineer career path.

5. Continued education opportunities

   Not all industries and companies require continued education to advance your Industrial Engineer career path. However, earning this degree may help you advance to higher-earning positions more quickly. Earning a Graduate Degree in industrial engineering can take 4 years to complete. People that have earned their Graduate Degree typically make $125,276 compared to $58,495 for those without that type of degree.