Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians Salary Guide 2025: $66,120 Median, Outlook & How to Become One
Industrial engineering technologists and technicians earned a median salary of $66,120 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean annual wage is $70,700, roughly $32 per hour, with the top 10% earning more than $99,150 and the bottom 10% below $47,300. This occupation employs about 75,570 people nationwide.
How much Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians earn
Median pay lands at $66,120, but your actual paycheck depends on industry, experience, and location. The typical range runs from $47,300 (10th percentile) up to $99,150 (90th percentile). Mean hourly wage is about $32. Most workers are in manufacturing, professional services, and government.
Entry-level positions tend to start near the lower end, while senior technicians or those in specialized industries like aerospace can push toward six figures. Overtime is common in production settings, which can boost annual earnings.
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your salary. The highest-paying states are Oklahoma ($79,330 average), Maryland ($79,090), California ($79,070), Washington ($78,430), and Oregon ($75,760).
On the lower end, West Virginia pays an average of $57,240, South Dakota $54,570, and Mississippi $50,180. The BLS data reflect state-level mean wages for the occupation; metropolitan areas within high-paying states often offer even more.
How to become Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technician
Most employers require an associate degree in industrial engineering technology, manufacturing technology, or a related field. Some technicians enter with a certificate or a bachelor's degree, but the typical path is a two-year program.
Classwork covers production engineering, quality control, computer-aided design (CAD), statistics, and process improvement. Many programs include internships or cooperative education that give hands-on experience with lean manufacturing or Six Sigma.
Certification is not mandatory but can help. The Association for Operations Management (APICS) offers a Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), and the American Society for Quality (ASQ) has a Certified Quality Technician credential. On-the-job training is standard for new hires. No state license is required for this occupation.
- Earn an associate degree in industrial engineering technology or a related field.
- Complete an internship or co-op for practical experience.
- Consider optional certifications like CPIM or CQT to boost credentials.
- Apply for entry-level technician roles; many large manufacturers offer training programs.
Job outlook
Employment of industrial engineering technologists and technicians is projected to grow 1.7% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 6,300 job openings each year over the decade, mostly to replace workers who retire or transfer.
Manufacturing continues to automate, but the need for technicians who can improve efficiency and maintain quality will persist. Industries like logistics, healthcare systems, and consulting also hire these professionals. Candidates with strong skills in data analysis and automation will have the edge.
Frequently asked questions
Is industrial engineering technician a good career?
Yes, it offers solid pay (median $66,120) and stable demand. The work is hands-on and varied, with opportunities in manufacturing, logistics, and consulting. Growth is slower than average, but the 6,300 annual openings mean steady hiring.
What education do I need to become an industrial engineering technician?
An associate degree in industrial engineering technology, manufacturing engineering technology, or a related field is the typical requirement. Some employers accept a certificate or a bachelor's degree, but the two-year degree is the most common entry point.
What states pay industrial engineering technicians the most?
According to the BLS, Oklahoma ($79,330), Maryland ($79,090), California ($79,070), Washington ($78,430), and Oregon ($75,760) have the highest average wages. The lowest-paying states include Mississippi ($50,180), South Dakota ($54,570), and West Virginia ($57,240).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians data.