Manufacturing Engineers
Design, integrate, or improve manufacturing systems or related processes. May work with commercial or industrial designers to refine product designs to increase producibility and decrease costs.
SOC: 17-2112.03
Common Job Titles
Manufacturing EngineerPlant EngineerProcess EngineerProcess Improvement Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign manufacturing systems and production processes using CAD/CAM software and engineering principles to optimize producibility and reduce costs.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate solutions to complex manufacturing problems by integrating mechanical, electrical, and software systems under time and resource constraints.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize technical documentation and process specifications for training materials, standard operating procedures, and engineering reports.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze production data and system performance metrics using statistical analysis tools and ERP systems to identify process improvement opportunities.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate manufacturing processes and equipment efficiency through continuous monitoring and systems evaluation to ensure compliance with quality standards.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute technical drawings and equipment layouts using CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and CATIA following industry standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess production quality control results and defect patterns in collaboration with interdisciplinary teams to implement corrective actions.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for process improvements and technology adoption when communicating with stakeholders, management, and cross-functional teams.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop cost estimates and resource allocation plans for manufacturing projects using financial analysis and project management tools.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate safety protocols with production efficiency goals when designing systems to balance regulatory compliance and operational performance.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate precision measurement instruments and testing equipment including digital calipers, micrometers, and microscopes to verify product specifications.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate manufacturing equipment and control systems using PLC and SCADA software to maintain optimal operational parameters.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Manufacturing Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
350,230
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $70,000 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $157,140 |
| Workers on average earn | $107,900 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Production and Processing4.4/5
- Engineering and Technology4.4/5
- Mechanical4.1/5
- Design4.0/5
- Mathematics4.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Autodesk AutoCADCDassault Systemes SolidWorksMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft SharePointMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft Visual BasicMicrosoft WordRSAP softwareThe MathWorks MATLAB
Technology Skills
CNC MastercamComputer aided manufacturing CAM softwareComputer numerical control CNC softwareDassault Systemes CATIAEkoEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareFileMaker ProGeometric CAMWorks
Tools & Equipment
Desktop computersDigital calipersDigital micrometersLaptop computersOptical compound microscopesPersonal computersPersonal digital assistants PDAScientific calculators