What Does an Industrial Engineering Technician Do?

America’s manufacturing facilities are efficient. That’s thanks, in part, to the work of industrial engineering technicians. 

Through keen observation and creative thinking, these technicians work with engineers to improve manufacturing system layouts and other industrial production processes to make them more efficient.

They help industrial engineers establish standard procedures. They also plan workflows, conduct studies, prepare machinery and equipment layouts, help minimize inventory costs and analyze production costs — all with safety in mind.

Industrial engineering technicians — also called industrial engineering technologists — are needed in factories, offices, stores, healthcare facilities and beyond. Because their skills are valuable to so many types of businesses, their responsibilities vary, depending on the employer.

If you're curious and love solving problems, keep reading to learn what kind of training you’ll need to land a job in this essential role.

$ 42,000 - $ 91,400
$ 61,300
6,600+
An industrial engineering technician reviews a blueprint while talking on a walkie-talkie in front of a worksite
The versatility of industrial engineering technicians allows them to be useful in a variety of projects. (Credit: Freebird7977/Shutterstock)

Job Responsibilities

  • Work with industrial engineers and management to recommend solutions
  • Study company operations in terms of time spent, motion, method, cost and speed
  • Collect data
  • Interpret engineering diagrams 
  • Recommend revisions to processes, work assignments and floor layouts to increase production efficiency
  • Observe workers and how they follow quality and production standards
  • Create workflows and write reports 

How To Become an Industrial Engineering Technician: FAQs

What steps are required to become an industrial engineering tech?

First, earn your high school diploma or equivalent. If you’re still in school, take math, science and drafting classes to prepare. 

After high school, there are several training paths to this career. You can earn a certificate or an associate degree in industrial engineering technology or applied science. That’s a short, direct path to a well-paying career. That’s just one of the reasons why industrial engineering technician is included in our list of highest-paying trade jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree.

Apprenticeship is another pathway to this career. This popular earn-and-learn route includes classroom time and hands-on training.  

Any pathway is likely to include courses at a community college or vocational school. Courses may include general electronics and electrical systems, blueprint reading, math, computer-aided design (CAD) and/or computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), automated manufacturing systems technology and robotics, motion study, workplace safety, engineering design and manufacturing equipment and operations. 

Are there any other qualifications to consider?

You don't need a license or certification to do this job, but earning certifications can make the difference between you and another job candidate. Some employers look for the Quality Technician or Quality Engineer certifications from the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

How long does it take to become an industrial engineering technician?

Certificate programs can last from six to 12 months. An associate degree takes two years. An apprenticeship can take two or more years. All programs will include hands-on experience that may extend the training window. 

Continuing education is ongoing. 

Where do technicians and technologists work?

They are best known for working in the manufacturing industry, but they can be hired in any industry. They can work alongside logisticians in supply chain operations for retailers or transportation companies, or at hospitals or large offices. 
 

What’s the job outlook for industrial engineering technicians?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the outlook is steady. BLS predicts there will be about 6,600 job openings for technicians each year from 2021 to 2031. 

What skills and qualities would make someone a good fit for this job?

  • Excellent interpersonal and cooperation skills
  • Very good at problem-solving and analysis
  • Curious and investigative
  • Detail-oriented
  • Excel at math and statistics
  • Strong observation skills
  • Follows procedures and rules
  • Safety-conscious
The bottom line:

This career may not be as well-known as others, but it's essential to maintaining and improving efficiency in many settings. It's a good fit for someone who loves problem-solving and analyzing situations from several angles. If this sounds like you, check out the training options near you in the boxes below. With a relatively short-term commitment, you could be on your way to earning a good salary and making a difference! 

Why Becoming an Industrial Engineering Technician Is Worthwhile

Industrial engineering technician David Vanderveen

Why Becoming an Industrial Engineering Technician Is Worthwhile

David Vanderveen is a problem-solver of a different kind. His work as an industrial engineering technician means he studies processes and systems and makes them more efficient.

"Fitting together each piece of a process in the most efficient way possible is like a giant puzzle, and the satisfaction when everything comes together can’t be beat," says David.

The job pulls together two of his strengths: improving processes and working with different people to solve a problem.  

"A willingness to go out to where the process is performed and get your hands dirty also goes a long way toward being successful," he says.

Find out what else David has to say about being an industrial engineering technician.

Industrial Engineering Technician Training in Your Area

Coordinates

Industrial Engineering Technology

Nova Scotia Community College
(0.0 Miles)

Engineering Technology, A.A.S

Independence Community College
Independence (7.3 Miles)

A.A.S. Instrumentation and Controls

Metropolitan Community College (MO)
Kansas City (149.7 Miles)

A.A.S. Engineering Technology, Mechanical/Manufacturing Emphasis

Metropolitan Community College (MO)
Kansas City (149.7 Miles)
School logo for Missouri State University - West Plains in West Plains MO

Advanced Manufacturing Technology

Missouri State University - West Plains
West Plains (214.6 Miles)

Manufacturing Engineering Technology, A.A.S.

Southeast Community College Area
Lincoln (261.7 Miles)

Industrial Engineering Technology, A.A.S

Iowa Western Community College
Council Bluffs (289.0 Miles)

Industrial Electrical Technician Certificate of Achievement

Metropolitan Community College (NE)
Omaha (291.5 Miles)
Central Community College logo

Industrial Technology Certificate

Central Community College
Grand Island (300.3 Miles)
Des Moines Area Community College logo

Applied Engineering Technology (Electro-Mechanical) , A.A.S

Des Moines Area Community College
Ankey (338.2 Miles)
Des Moines Area Community College logo

Electronics Engineering Technician, A.A.S

Des Moines Area Community College
Ankey (338.2 Miles)
Des Moines Area Community College logo

Applied Engineering Technology Diploma

Des Moines Area Community College
Ankey (338.2 Miles)