How do I Become a Manufacturing Engineer?

A manufacturing engineer’s career is focused on finding ways to improve processes, products, and productivity. He may find that his skills are needed in a wide range of industries. If you plan to become a manufacturing engineer, you’ll usually have to graduate from high school and then attend college in pursuit of a four-year degree in engineering. You may also consider earning a master’s degree in preparation for this career. Doing so may help to increase your value in the eyes of prospective employers and boost your chances for advancement in this field.

Often, an individual who wants to become a manufacturing engineer is advised to take advanced science and math classes while he is in high school. Such classes may help build a foundation of knowledge you can use as you work to become a manufacturing engineer. Additionally, you may do well to take classes that help build problem-solving and communication skills, as both are important for a career in this field. Even composition classes may help develop skills that will help you in college and throughout your career. If you do not graduate from high school, you may decide to earn a general educational development (GED) diploma instead; this credential is typically accepted for admission to college.

In college, the most focused path toward becoming a manufacturing engineer usually involves majoring in manufacturing engineering. In most cases, you will need about four years to earn a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. During the course of your education, you’ll likely take a base of general courses that are required as part of the degree program, such as those in science, math, and composition. You’ll usually take courses that are more focused on your major as well, such as those that cover subjects such as engineering science, engineering economy, and manufacturing process engineering. If you decide to pursue a master’s degree as well, you’ll typically have to commit to an additional two or three years in school to earn this advanced degree.

After earning an engineering credential, you may look in newspaper help-wanted ads and browse online job databases to find a job in this field. There are manufacturing plants in a wide range of industries that may need your skills and knowledge. Eventually, you may decide to seek certification in this field as a career booster. You’ll likely have to become a manufacturing engineer and gain at least a few years of experience to be eligible for certification, however.