In a typical work setting, industrial engineers:

Interpersonal Relationships

• Have a medium to high level of social contact. They talk to managers and workers, but also spend time alone analyzing data.
• Communicate by telephone, e-mail, and in person on a daily basis. They also communicate using letters and memos, but less often.
• Are sometimes placed in conflict situations. Clients and coworkers may disagree about the direction of a project.
• Are responsible for the work done by their coworkers and assistants.
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• Regularly work in a group or as part of a team.

Physical Work Conditions

• Almost always work indoors. Some work sites may not have heating or air conditioning.
• Wear protective attire, such as eye goggles and hard hats, on a daily basis.
• Are exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable on a weekly basis.
• Are sometimes exposed to contaminants and hazardous equipment.
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• May share office or work space with coworkers.

Work Performance

• Must be exact in their work. Errors could cause workers to be hurt or companies to lose money.
• Regularly make decisions that strongly impact their employer's reputation.
• Make decisions that affect coworkers and clients on a weekly basis. They make most decisions without consulting a supervisor first.
• Set most tasks and goals for the day without talking to a supervisor first.
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• Abide by strict weekly deadlines.
• Sometimes repeat the same activities.

Hours/Travel

• Usually work full time. Working overtime to meet deadlines is common.
• Generally work a set schedule.