Industrial Engineer Salary 2025, Job Outlook & How to Become One
Industrial engineers earned a median $102,440 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With employment of 365,740 and projected growth of 11% through 2034, this occupation offers strong pay and stability.
How much Industrial Engineers earn
The national median salary for industrial engineers is $102,440 per year. The mean annual wage is $109,900, which works out to roughly $49 per hour.
Pay varies widely. The lowest 10% earn about $74,370, while the top 10% make $159,860 or more. Experience, industry, and location all push salaries up or down.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. Alaska leads the pack at a mean $156,510, followed by Washington ($129,050), Oregon ($128,290), New Mexico ($128,090), and California ($124,600).
On the lower end, Kentucky averages $96,820, Mississippi $95,830, and South Dakota $93,200. Even in lower-paying states, the median still tops $90,000.
How to become Industrial Engineer
The standard entry point is a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering or a related field like mechanical or manufacturing engineering. ABET accreditation is common for degree programs.
Starting roles often involve assisting senior engineers, analyzing production data, or designing workflow improvements. Many employers prefer candidates who complete internships during college.
Professional engineering (PE) licensure is not required for most jobs, but it can help with advancement in certain sectors like government or consulting. Certifications like Lean Six Sigma or Certified Industrial Engineer (CIE) also boost credentials.
Steps to enter the field: (1) Earn a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering or a related discipline. (2) Gain experience through internships or entry-level roles. (3) Consider optional certification in lean, quality, or systems engineering. (4) Pursue PE licensure if needed for your career path.
Job outlook
BLS projects employment of industrial engineers will grow 11% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 25,200 openings per year, many due to retirements or switching careers.
Demand is driven by companies seeking to cut costs and improve efficiency across manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and tech. Automation and AI will reshape some tasks but also create new opportunities in system design and optimization.
Frequently asked questions
Is industrial engineering a good career?
Yes. It offers a median salary over $102,000, strong job growth of 11%, and work that spans manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and tech. It's a stable, well-compensated field with varied industries.
What degree do you need to be an industrial engineer?
A bachelor's degree in industrial engineering or a related engineering field is the standard requirement. ABET accreditation is common. Some roles accept degrees in mechanical, manufacturing, or systems engineering.
How many industrial engineers are there in the US?
As of May 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 365,740 industrial engineers employed nationally.
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 Engineers data.