Industrial engineering career demand and opportunities

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of industrial engineers is projected to grow 11% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

So the odds are good you’ll find a great job as an industrial engineer. But what kinds of jobs, exactly? Here are a few examples of projects you might work on as an industrial engineer:

Design and manage efficient supply chain systems 

You might coordinate global shipping routes, optimize warehouse operations, or design logistics systems that keep shelves stocked and businesses running. Nearly every industry needs this kind of support!

Implement automation and robotics to improve efficiency

One industrial engineering faculty member, David Kaber, is working on how industries can better integrate human-machine systems. 

“With the rise of AI, automated systems are becoming increasingly capable of planning, inferencing, and assisting humans in making decisions,” said Kaber. His industrial engineering research probes the challenges humans face when interacting with complex automated or AI systems, particularly under time pressure and high operational stress.

As an industrial engineer, you could be at the forefront of implementing AI and robotics within an organization.

Analyze and design workstations to enhance worker safety, comfort, and productivity

You’ll look at everything from ergonomics and warehouse layout to machine and tool placement, making sure employees can work more effectively while minimizing strain and injury.

Develop efficient layouts for healthcare facilities to improve patient care and workflow

Healthcare facilities are complex systems where a lot is at stake. Your designs could help hospitals shorten wait times, improve staff coordination, reduce accidents and ensure patients get the care they need faster.

Identify sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact

For example, industrial and manufacturing engineering graduate, Andy Balk, is responsible for ensuring that Amazon’s European operational support network — which includes distribution hubs and fulfillment centers — is ready for the shift to all-electric delivery vans. The changeover is a central component of Amazon’s pledge to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Industrial engineering program options

Interested in a specific focus area of industrial engineering? No problem. Students can tailor their degree with transcript-visible options in:

• Business Engineering: Integrate industrial engineering solutions in business settings, combining marketing, financial management, and project management.
• Healthcare Systems Engineering: Apply industrial engineering principles in healthcare, focusing on management, data analysis, and healthcare policy.
• Industrial Automation Engineering: Drive digital transformation and automation in industrial and manufacturing systems, with courses in mechatronics, ergonomics, and control systems.

Industrial engineering salary ranges

Industrial engineers enjoy competitive salaries that reflect their high demand and versatile skill set. According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for industrial engineers in 2024 was $101,140, with entry-level positions starting around $70,000 and experienced professionals earning up to $150,000 or more. Salary ranges vary based on factors such as industry, location, experience, and specialization.

Graduates from Oregon State University’s industrial engineering program are well-positioned to command strong starting salaries, thanks to the program’s hands-on training, industry connections, and expertise in areas like business engineering, healthcare systems, and industrial automation.