Employment of industrial engineers is projected to show little or no change from 2014 to 2024. This occupation is versatile both in the nature of the work it does and in the industries in which its expertise can be put to use.
Because they are not as specialized as other engineers, industrial engineers are employed in a wide range of industries, including major manufacturing industries, consulting and engineering services, research and development firms, and wholesale trade. This versatility arises from the fact that these engineers' expertise focuses on reducing internal costs, making their work valuable for many industries. For example, their work is important for manufacturing industries that are considering relocating from overseas to domestic sites. In addition, growth in healthcare and changes in how healthcare is delivered will create demand for industrial engineers in firms in professional, scientific, and consulting services. Projected declines in employment in some manufacturing sectors will temper growth for industrial engineers overall.
Job Prospects
Likely retirements over the next decade will create more openings within the occupation and therefore more employment opportunities for aspiring industrial engineers.
Industrial Engineers
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Total, all occupations
7%
Engineers
4%
Industrial engineers
1%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program