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Job Report Industrial Engineers
Nature of the Work
Industrial engineers determine the most effective ways for an organization to use the
basic factors of production -- people, machines, materials, information, and energy. They
bridge the gap between management and operations, and are more concerned with people
and methods of business organization than are engineers in other specialties, who
generally work more with products or processes.
To solve organizational, production, and related problems most efficiently, industrial
engineers design data processing systems and apply mathematical analysis such as
operations research. They also develop management control systems to aid in financial
planning and cost analysis, design production planning control systems to coordinate
activities and control product quality, and design or improve systems for the physical
distribution of goods and services. Industrial engineers conduct surveys to find plant
locations with the best combination of raw materials, transportation, and taxes. They also
develop wage and salary administration systems and job evaluation programs. Many
industrial engineers move into management positions because the work is closely related.
Employment
Industrial engineers held about 121,000 jobs in 1990; over 4 out of 5 jobs were in
manufacturing industries. Because their skills can be used in almost any type of
organization, industrial engineers are more widely distributed among industries than other
engineers. For example, some even work for insurance companies, banks, hospitals, and
retail organizations. Some work for government agencies or are independent consultants.
Job Outlook
Employment opportunities for industrial engineers are expected to be good; their
employment is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through the year
2000. Most job openings, however, will result from the need to replace industrial engineers
who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force.
Industrial growth, more complex business operations, and the greater use of
automation both in factories and in offices underlie the projected employment growth. Jobs
also will be created as firms seek to reduce costs and increase productivity through
scientific management and safety engineering.
Sources of Additional Information
Institute of Industrial Engineers, Inc., 25 Technology Park/ Atlanta, Norcross,
GA 30092.
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