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Industrial Engineering Technologist

Industrial engineering technologists study and try to improve the quality and quantity of goods produced, and the efficiency and economics of production.

Industrial engineering technologists deal with computer operations, including CAD, Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) methods and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming, as well as robotics, production systems and manufacturing resource planning.

TASKS

Industrial engineering technologists may perform the following tasks:

conduct studies to evaluate work methods and assess the work content through use of measurement techniques, using the information from such studies to determine and improve operating efficiencies of the company
study material-handling methods and suggest or implement changes that reduce physical effort, increase safety and minimise handling costs
design and modify equipment and processes to optimise efficiency and use of resources
produce and submit proposals to management for upgrading equipment
measure and study available floor space and draw plans of efficient plant layout to scale, using drafting equipment or Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) software
assist with developing tests for components and finished products to ensure they meet quality standards and operating requirements
plan assignments and make recommendations based on worker performance, machine capacity and production schedules
assist with or produce routine maintenance schedules
assist with surveillance of inventories, ranging from raw materials to finished products, and prepare status reports
supervise and advise operators and work teams, ensuring work is carried out according to plan
communicate with contractors and suppliers of goods and services
liaise with all persons in an organisation, from senior management through to union representatives and staff on the shop floor

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy technical and engineering activities
able to identify, analyse and solve problems
good oral and written communication skills
aptitude for computing and design
practical and creative
able to work independently or as part of a team
responsible attitude

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an industrial engineering technologist you usually have to complete a degree in technology, engineering technology or design and technology with a major in mechanical engineering or industrial computer systems. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics and physics are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Some mechanical engineering degrees offer appropriate training for entry to this occupation. See the separate entry for Mechanical Engineer for further details.

Additional Information

Graduates may be eligible for membership of Engineers Australia. Visit their website for more details.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Industrial engineering technologists mainly work for manufacturers of motor vehicles, whitegoods, food, pharmaceuticals and aerospace equipment. They may also work in a range of service industries such as health care, banking or retail.

With further training, it is possible to become a professional engineer.