To solve organizational, production and related problems most efficiently, industrial engineers carefully study the product and its requirements, design manufacturing and information systems and use mathematical analysis methods such as operations research to meet those requirements.
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in engineering.
Graduate study for master's or doctor's degree is becoming increasingly important for advancement to positions in teaching, research and administrative aspects of engineering. Employment of industrial engineers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005. Most job openings, however, will result from the need to replace industrial engineers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. The skills of an industrial engineer can be readily applied for insurance companies, banks, hospitals and retail organizations. Others work for government agencies or are independent consultants.