How Do I Become an Ergonomist?

The educational requirement to become an ergonomist, also referred to as a human factor engineer, is a master's or doctorate degree. Since ergonomics draws upon knowledge from many areas, specialists from an assortment of disciplines enter this field. Your college major could be engineering or computer science, but some members of this profession are trained in such areas as psychology, biology and physiology before they become an ergonomist. Some institutions of higher learning have also incorporated undergraduate and graduate degree programs in ergonomics.

Those who want to become an ergonomist will want to acquire a familiarity with all that the job entails. Ergonomists are involved in the design of machines, devices, and equipment with the goal of enabling them to be easily used. The extensive use of computers has necessitated the expertise of this profession to make computer stations function optimally. An ergonomist's job description involves evaluating human factors which can produce discomfort and difficulty in understanding and operating a machine. Such factors may include vision limitations, fatigue, and/or pain.

If you want to become an ergonomist, you will have a variety of career options open to you. Companies seek the input of this profession when they remodel their work environment to ensure that their employees won't be affected by poor lighting or uncomfortable furniture. Ergonomists are also involved in marketing electronics and other products, developing ways of making them work better. Many members of this profession work for large manufacturing firms, such as those involved in constructing automobiles and computers. Sometimes ergonomists are employed as consultants for educational facilities or government agencies.

Just as ergonomists' career options are varied, the work environment can also be incredibly diverse. The location might be indoors or outdoors, and the hours may be quite different from the traditional 9-to-5 jobs. The setting can range from a hospital to nuclear power plant, while the focus can vary from safety issues to product design to developing a conducive work environment.

Anyone who wants to become an ergonomist can expect the job outlook to be good. A large number of fields need the expertise this profession has to offer. Since manufacturers compete with each other to develop products which offer better or more user-friendly features, ergonomists will be in demand in this area. Other companies will also need their knowledge in establishing a work environment that is safe and comfortable. Ergonomists can advance in their profession by becoming managers of an ergonomist firm, or they may open their own consulting business.