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Job outlook for senior manufacturing engineers in the United States
Senior manufacturing engineer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected senior manufacturing engineer job growth rate is 10% from 2018-2028.
About 30,600 new jobs for senior manufacturing engineers are projected over the next decade.
Senior manufacturing engineer salaries have increased 6% for senior manufacturing engineers in the last 5 years.
There are over 192,962 senior manufacturing engineers currently employed in the United States.
There are 97,154 active senior manufacturing engineer job openings in the US.
The average senior manufacturing engineer salary is $93,853.
Are senior manufacturing engineer jobs in demand?
Senior manufacturing engineer job and salary trends over time
Senior manufacturing engineer jobs over time
Senior manufacturing engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 192,962 | 0.06% |
| 2020 | 192,766 | 0.06% |
| 2019 | 193,210 | 0.06% |
| 2018 | 182,412 | 0.05% |
| 2017 | 170,839 | 0.05% |
Average senior manufacturing engineer salary over time
Senior manufacturing engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $93,853 | $45.12 | +4.4% |
| 2025 | $89,913 | $43.23 | +2.1% |
| 2024 | $88,043 | $42.33 | --0.3% |
| 2023 | $88,288 | $42.45 | --0.1% |
| 2022 | $88,333 | $42.47 | +1.5% |
Senior manufacturing engineer jobs by state
Most common states for senior manufacturing engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 347 | 50% |
| 2 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,932 | 28% |
| 3 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 354 | 26% |
| 4 | Delaware | 961,939 | 236 | 25% |
| 5 | California | 39,536,653 | 9,231 | 23% |
| 6 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 957 | 23% |
| 7 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,232 | 22% |
| 8 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,753 | 21% |
| 9 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,507 | 20% |
| 10 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,143 | 20% |
| 11 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,067 | 18% |
| 12 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 635 | 18% |
| 13 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 567 | 18% |
| 14 | Vermont | 623,657 | 115 | 18% |
| 15 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,211 | 17% |
| 16 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 185 | 17% |
| 17 | Wisconsin | 5,795,483 | 911 | 16% |
| 18 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 90 | 16% |
| 19 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,510 | 15% |
| 20 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 754 | 15% |
Most common cities for senior manufacturing engineers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goleta | 2 | 6% | $112,749 |
| 2 | Manchester | 2 | 3% | $91,526 |
| 3 | Plymouth | 2 | 3% | $85,385 |
| 4 | Irvine | 5 | 2% | $107,259 |
| 5 | Bloomington | 2 | 2% | $64,979 |
| 6 | Melbourne | 2 | 2% | $83,970 |
| 7 | Palm Bay | 2 | 2% | $83,991 |
| 8 | Fremont | 3 | 1% | $122,063 |
| 9 | Huntsville | 2 | 1% | $92,583 |
| 10 | Orlando | 2 | 1% | $84,228 |
| 11 | Palmdale | 2 | 1% | $111,269 |
| 12 | Indianapolis | 3 | 0% | $65,264 |
| 13 | Jacksonville | 3 | 0% | $83,671 |
| 14 | Phoenix | 3 | 0% | $105,646 |
| 15 | Los Angeles | 2 | 0% | $109,153 |
Senior Manufacturing Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of senior manufacturing engineer experts
Northern Illinois University
University of Washington
Arizona State University at the Polytechnic Campus
Oregon State University
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
University of Maryland - College Park
Northern Illinois University
North Carolina State University
Marshall University
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Oklahoma State University
University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
University of Hawaii at Manoa
York College of Pennsylvania
North Dakota State University
Cincinnati State Technical & Community College
Murray State University
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Ziteng Wang Ph.D.: If I could only give one piece of general advice to Industrial Engineering graduates beginning their career in the field, it would be to keep an open mind. One of the advantages for a student to have an IE degree is that they could apply their skills to almost any industry. As good as it sounds, this also means that the student must quickly learn to understand the organization they work for and the industry they choose to begin their career in. Doing this will allow the student to bridge their IE knowledge and skills with the reality and uniqueness of their job, and therefore, quickly adapt to the field and make an impact. Keeping an open mind also means to understand what they see in the field may be far different than what they learned in the classroom or from the textbooks because the real-world problems that Industrial Engineers are faced with are often complex for a variety of reasons. As someone who just begins their career, the student should anticipate adjusting the “perfect model” in their mind to a realistic version by using a combination of their IE skills.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ziteng Wang Ph.D.: Stay relevant and up to date in the field as the IE field, just like other rapidly growing fields, is evolving very fast. Stay up to date of the latest developments and technologies in the industry. Take on big challenges and make an impact. Prove yourself and show your ability, skills, and potential. Learn from the best, and give your best advice to others. Get involved in the professional community to maximize your opportunities.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Ziteng Wang Ph.D.: There are quite many, but I’d like to highlight two. The first is the data analytics skill. This argument is not new, but I think the skill becomes more and more important. Rather than a particular skill, data analytics skill is more like a toolbox because it involves a variety of abilities to use different software for data cleansing, visualization, statistical modeling, validation, and data-driven decision-making. One of the reasons why Industrial Engineering is one of the most exciting and coolest jobs is that we could deal with data of all sorts in terms of scale, industry, quality, and problems to solve. This requires IE students to prepare themselves for the challenge which only will be more prevalent as AI-enabled products and technologies rely on data and produce new data. The second is the skill to work in an interdisciplinary team and communicate to people from different backgrounds. Industrial engineering deals with processes and systems that could span widely in scale, from global supply chains to manufacturing plants. IE students must be able to understand the perspectives and “languages” of various departments and even different organizations, and make their work, results, and their IE perspective understood by the stakeholders. This might not be easy but is highly necessary and becoming more important than ever because the problems in the field are more and more complex, requiring collaborative effort and system-wide solutions.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Shuai Huang: An Industrial Engineer uses data analytics, simulation, operations research, optimization methods, human factors, and scientific management tools to develop an analytic perspective of business processes and production systems for optimal performance.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Shuai Huang: Industrial & Systems Engineers are in high demand across various industries such as logistics, healthcare, energy, manufacturing, robotics, and cyber-infrastructure, offering diverse roles with unique challenges and rewards.
Jiayue Shen
Mechanical Engineering Technology Program CoordinatorWhat general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Jiayue Shen: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career in Mechanical Engineering Technology, contemplate acquiring certifications like the FE or PE license, or additional training in high-demand specialized areas such as semiconductors. Moreover, gaining practical experience through academic clubs, undergraduate research, internships, or co-op programs can increase your appeal to employers, potentially resulting in higher salary offers.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jiayue Shen: It's essential to stay curious and eager to learn, as the field is continually evolving. Keeping abreast of the latest technologies and trends through seeking out learning opportunities and maintaining a curiosity about new developments is crucial. Additionally, building a robust professional network and seeking mentorship can offer valuable insights and guidance. Embracing interdisciplinary projects is also key, as the field is expanding beyond purely mechanical aspects. Being dynamic and proactive in interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds will be beneficial, as collaboration across disciplines is increasingly important in this field.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Jiayue Shen: In the next 3-5 years, skills such as electronic control, basic programming, and critical thinking will become increasingly important in the field of Mechanical Engineering Technology. As industries like robotics, automation, and semiconductors continue to grow, professionals will need to be well-versed in these areas to stay competitive. Additionally, skills such as collaboration and effective oral and written communication will be crucial for advancing in one's career.
Jerry Gintz CMfgE
Teaching ProfessorArizona State University at the Polytechnic Campus
Manufacturing Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Jerry Gintz CMfgE: When entering a career in manufacturing engineering, consider starting as a technician to gain experience with the company before transitioning into engineering. This will allow you to build confidence and better understand the production systems you will be responsible for as an engineer.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jerry Gintz CMfgE: From a manufacturing engineering perspective, the most important skills an engineer will need is the ability to understand, design, assemble, and deploy production capable systems. This includes an expertise with computer-aided engineering tools to assist in the design and verification of engineered systems before a company expends capital on the equipment.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Jerry Gintz CMfgE: From a manufacturing engineering perspective, compensation is normally tied to capability so the more relevant skills a candidate has entering the workforce the higher compensation they can expect to receive. This is especially true in manufacturing given the shortage of qualified engineering talent available for hire. Additionally, consider focusing on industrial automation as a resource to aid efficient production. Manufacturing is always looking to increase efficiency and a foundational knowledge of industrial automation systems will serve you well as you build a career in manufacturing engineering.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Devin Roach PhD: Maximizing your salary potential starts with setting yourself apart from other students by developing specialized, marketable skills. To achieve this, students should aim to acquire targeted experiences, such as learning full stack programming, participating in internships that hone specific skills, or dedicating their time to a focused extracurricular activity.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Devin Roach PhD: Apart from a strong knowledge of mechanical engineering fundamentals, students should focus on developing proficiency in emerging technologies such as machine learning (ML) applied to mechanical systems. Additionally, skills in computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation software will continue to be essential, especially as these tools evolve to incorporate advanced features like generative design and optimization algorithms. Moreover, expertise in sustainable design principles and renewable energy systems will likely become increasingly important as industries prioritize environmental sustainability. Finally, strong communication and collaboration skills will remain crucial, especially as mechanical engineers work in interdisciplinary teams and interact with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Devin Roach PhD: I would advise all graduates starting their careers in Mechanical Engineering to prioritize continuous learning and skill development. Stay updated on the latest advancements in the field such as emerging technologies, updated design standards, or innovative manufacturing processes. Additionally, seek out opportunities for hands-on experience to enhance your practical skills and industry knowledge. Networking with professionals in your field and joining professional organizations like ASME can also provide valuable connections and resources for career growth. Finally, don't underestimate the importance of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, as they are often just as crucial as technical expertise in succeeding in the workplace.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Brendan O'Toole Ph.D.: Mechanical Engineering jobs vary depending on the industry or even subfield within a specific industry. Things that are important to all fields and jobs would be time management and communications skills. Improving these things can be helpful in all aspects of work and life in general. New graduates should learn how to make themselves useful for the specific job they are in. This may require learning more Computer Aided Design and Analysis tools, or project management tools, or specific lab or manufacturing tools or programs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here to stay and will most likely find its way into all work fields (engineering and others). New graduates should look for innovative ways to apply AI to their new jobs, even if it is not being used when they first start.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Amir Riaz Ph.D.: Mechanical engineering education gives you a broad foundation from which to make an impact in the most diverse set of practical fields, ranging from quantum computing to biomedical engineering to designing spacecraft, and everything in between. Be inquisitive and creative. Every practical problem that you encounter in your field has an engineering solution linked to what you have learned in class and is waiting to be discovered by you.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Amir Riaz Ph.D.: Learn new skills from professional and technical courses. Obtain a Master's degree at some point.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Mohammed Daqaq: This is a difficult question to answer and is very much dependent on how satisfied an individual is about their job. I can comment on what I hear from students with regards to their ME education. Most engineers choose ME because of its breadth and that it allows them more freedom to maneuver the job market once they graduate. They can clearly see that, despite being one of the most traditional engineering disciplines, it is still very trendy with employers. They also like the hands-on nature of the discipline where they get to design, optimize, and build physical components that work and move together to achieve a desired task. As for the dislikes, some students complain about the fact that ME requires an in-depth understanding of many mathematical concepts which many students find to be challenging.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Mohammed Daqaq: It depends on what aspect of the job they are hired to do. Some graduating MEs work in industrial plants where they are expected to deal with and fix engineering related problems, or work on the design and testing of innovative industrial solutions. Many MEs end up in the sales and maintenance departments of companies that manufacture specialized machinery and equipment. Some ME graduates are hired by the research departments of companies and federal labs where they participate in the research and development of new technologies, etc. A recent trend that we have been observing with our graduates is that they are being sought after by major consulting companies especially in business development and finance. Such companies like the versatility of the engineering education, and the logical/structured way of thinking that engineers are trained to follow during their studies.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Theodore Hogan PhD, CIH: Engineering Technology B.S. graduates apply both engineering knowledge and industrial management skills to practical problem solving. The day-to-day work includes collaborating with management and line workers to troubleshoot issues along with planning and implementing process improvements. More experienced Engineering Technology graduates apply these people and problem-solving skills to manage traditional engineers and general business operations.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Theodore Hogan PhD, CIH: Engineering Technology is perceived to be less desirable than Mechanical Engineering or other traditional engineering degrees by both students and parents. Unfortunately, many students miss out on a skills-based career with flexible career options, high pay, and great career satisfaction.
Dr. Gregory Buckner Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor
Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate ProfessorNorth Carolina State University
Manufacturing Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Dr. Gregory Buckner Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor: Experience with robotics and automation, additive manufacturing, and CNC machining processes. Understanding the emerging roles of data analytics and artificial intelligence in process optimization and quality control.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Gregory Buckner Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor: One way to maximize your salary potential is to continue the formal education process by taking graduate engineering or business courses. Many employers reimburse the tuition expenses, and with the increasing availability of online courses you can earn a master's degree in engineering or an MBA one course at a time.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Gregory Buckner Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor: I'd encourage students to embrace new technical challenges and opportunities to learn and collaborate in an industrial setting, which can be quite different from the academic setting. I'd emphasize the importance of developing communication and team working skills, and building professional relationships. I'd also encourage students to join professional societies related to their field and keep updated on new manufacturing trends.
Michael Buechler
Professor Manufacturing TechnologyWhat general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Michael Buechler: I counsel my students to know their worth and know the job market. Most important is starting out in a position that challenges you and provides training for future wage and skill growth. Many graduates can get caught in a job that pays the bills but may not provide a path to the next career step. Be ambitious and seek to attain the advanced skills quickly but keep in mind the field is complex and there is a lot to learn. If you are in a high wage position but it does not provide the training or room for advancement it might not be the best career option.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Buechler: Model based definition, highly technical computer skills, 5 axis & familiarity with macros is going to be the future of advanced manufacturing. It is paramount that high skill individuals START with as much set-up experience as possible. In order to command 100k + as a programmer you need to know the correct inputs and physics of the manufacturing program you are making
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Michael Buechler: I would suggest beginning career individuals maintain an open mind as to where their carrer leads, they may find interest in areas of manufacturing not previously known or explored by them. Also work especially hard early in your career and try and find an employer that gives you the best opportunity to grow professionally and learn new skills.
Dr. Yousef Sardahi
Associate Professor of Mechanical EngineeringMarshall University
Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Dr. Yousef Sardahi: In the next 3-5 years, several skills are expected to become increasingly important in the mechanical engineering field: Advanced Computational Skills, Robotics and Automation, Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing, Renewable Energy Technologies, Data Analysis and IoT, Materials Science, Systems Engineering and Integration, Project Management and Leadership, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Communication and Soft Skills.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Yousef Sardahi: In the next 3-5 years, several skills are expected to become increasingly important in the mechanical engineering field:
Advanced Computational Skills: Proficiency in simulation and modeling software (like ANSYS, SolidWorks, or MATLAB) will be crucial as these tools become more integral in designing and testing complex systems.
Robotics and Automation: With industries moving towards automation, skills in robotics, automated systems, and knowledge of AI integration will be highly sought after.
Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing: Expertise in 3D printing and additive manufacturing techniques will be valuable as these technologies revolutionize product development and manufacturing processes.
Renewable Energy Technologies: As the world shifts towards sustainable energy sources, mechanical engineers with knowledge in solar, wind, and other renewable energy technologies will be in high demand.
Data Analysis and IoT: Skills in data analytics and understanding the Internet of Things (IoT) will be important as more mechanical systems are connected and produce large amounts of data.
Materials Science: Knowledge in advanced materials, such as composites or smart materials, will be crucial for developing more efficient and sustainable products and systems.
Systems Engineering and Integration: The ability to understand and integrate various subsystems within a larger system will be key, especially in complex projects.
Project Management and Leadership: As projects become more complex, skills in project management and leadership will be essential for overseeing projects and leading teams effectively.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The ability to work effectively across disciplines, understanding aspects of electrical engineering, computer science, and even business, will be increasingly important.
Communication and Soft Skills: Strong communication skills, both for technical and non-technical audiences, along with teamwork and problem-solving skills, will always be invaluable in the engineering field.
Jianyu Liang
Director of Materials and Manufacturing Engineering Program, Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, WPIWorcester Polytechnic Institute
Materials Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Jianyu Liang: At the start of your career, actively engaging in the manufacturing professional communities to develop an in-depth understanding of the current high-demand areas and the trends in the industry will help you position yourself in high-demand areas. This proactive approach allows you to make informed decisions on obtaining relevant certifications or advanced education, tailoring your skill set to meet the evolving needs of the industry. Proactively engaging in projects and practices to grow your experience. Building a strong professional network and finding mentors in the industry can provide guidance, expose you to new opportunities, and offer insights on navigating your career path effectively. Embracing continuous learning and staying abreast of technological advancements in manufacturing, such as automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing technologies, will ensure you remain a valuable asset to employers. Demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to adapt to new methods and technologies can set you apart in a competitive job market.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jianyu Liang: For manufacturing engineers, the next 3-5 years promise significant evolution due to advancements in technology and changes in manufacturing processes. Here are some skills that are expected to become more important and prevalent in the field: proficiency in automation and robotics, advanced data analysis and data-driven optimization, digital twin technology, additive manufacturing and 3D printing, application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in manufacturing, cybersecurity for manufacturing systems, and supply chain management.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Jianyu Liang: Get Your Hands Dirty: There's no substitute for hands-on experience. The lessons learned through direct involvement are invaluable, offering insights and skills that theoretical knowledge alone cannot provide. Embrace every opportunity to participate in projects, volunteer for tasks, and experiment within your role. This proactive approach not only accelerates your learning but also showcases your work ethic and dedication to potential mentors and leaders.
Be Mindful and Intentional in Your Job: While immersing yourself in your work, adopt a reflective practice. Actively seek feedback and analyze your experiences. This intentional approach to learning from every task helps to grow your skills rapidly.
Be Open-Minded and Adaptable: The landscape of nearly every industry is rapidly evolving, particularly with the integration of automation and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies are not just changing the way we work; they are reshaping the skills and roles in demand. Stay open to new ideas, technologies, and methodologies. Continuous learning and adaptability are key to remaining relevant and thriving in a tech-driven workplace. Attend workshops, webinars, and courses on emerging technologies and trends in your field to keep your skills sharp and your perspective fresh.
Cultivate a Professional Network: Building relationships within your industry is crucial. Networking isn't just about finding job opportunities; it's about learning from peers, gaining insights into industry trends, and establishing a support system. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and engage in communities related to your field. These connections can provide guidance, mentorship, and support as you navigate your career path.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Guiping Hu Ph.D.: People like the diversity and flexibility of being an industrial engineer. You can work on all kinds of problems with your industrial engineering skills. However, if you are only looking for a very narrow area in a specific engineering discipline, industrial engineering may not be right for you since we focus on system efficiency improvement and welfare of the workers.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Guiping Hu Ph.D.: Industrial Engineering is a very inclusive, diverse, and dynamic discipline. IE is about choices, other engineering disciplines apply skills to very specific areas. IE gives you the opportunity to work on a variety of businesses. If you are interested in management and interacting with people and improving systems, IE is a great choice for you.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Guiping Hu Ph.D.: Industrial Engineers design, build, and improve production systems. As IEs, we focus on both the quality of what is made and how it is made. Industrial Engineering is a very inclusive, diverse, and dynamic discipline. Whether it is shortening a roller-coaster line, streamlining an operating room, distributing products world wide or manufacturing superior automobiles, all share the common goal of reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
Uises Gonzalez-Valle
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians
What general advice would you give to a Senior Manufacturing Engineer?
Uises Gonzalez-Valle: We are currently transitioning to an era where computers are becoming a fundamental part of every field and engineering (especially ME and MET) is one of the more beneficiated fields as well as one that is adopting this transition faster. Thus, as a technical skill, anything related to computers is beneficial for professional development. Computer-aided design (CAD), Data Analysis, Machine learning, and a good awareness of cybersecurity are some examples of computer-based skills that are fundamental for an engineer in our current society. In addition to this, interpersonal skills are also important for an engineer; adaptability, communication, cross-disciplinary knowledge, and project management are some skills that will contribute to building a great engineer.
What Senior Manufacturing Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Uises Gonzalez-Valle: The beginning of professional life is not simple independent of the career path that you follow and ME and MET can have their own complications. However, some good advice would be to develop independence and adaptability which are key traits of an engineer, and always keep yourself updated with the most recent technological developments. If you are independent and adaptable, you have all the skills to learn and further your professional development. In addition, I would say it is essential to start building a network, including peers and mentors. Having a strong network of peers and mentors helps you significantly to progress in your professional line. From day-to-day to daily changing decisions, having a strong network to support would significantly help in building your professional path. Lastly, I would say that having a good Work-life balance is vital too, since our personal life is as important as our professional life. Remember, we should work to live instead of live to work.
What will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers increase their earning potential?
Uises Gonzalez-Valle: The beginning of professional life is not simple independent of the career path that you follow and ME and MET can have their own complications. However, some good advice would be to develop independence and adaptability which are key traits of an engineer, and always keep yourself updated with the most recent technological developments. If you are independent and adaptable, you have all the skills to learn and further your professional development. In addition, I would say it is essential to start building a network, including peers and mentors. Having a strong network of peers and mentors helps you significantly to progress in your professional line. From day-to-day to daily changing decisions, having a strong network to support would significantly help in building your professional path. Lastly, I would say that having a good Work-life balance is vital too, since our personal life is as important as our professional life. Remember, we should work to live instead of live to work.
Song Choi Ph.D.
Assistant DeanUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa
What skills stand out on Senior Manufacturing Engineer resumes?
Song Choi Ph.D.: On a ME student resume, the things that I would look for vary depending on the position description, but it would be under the 'projects that were conducted by the student as 1) extramural undergraduate research projects that may be part of work/study, senior design/capstone projects, other course-related projects, and personal interest projects.
Next may be their overall performance in classes via a GPA and/or descriptions of skills within the projects described above. As leadership, organization, and communications are also very important assets, close scrutiny of positions on/for the projects, and involvement and roles in student chapters of professional societies, clubs, extramural activities, etc.
Overall, GPA is not of primary importance, but it does show how quickly a student can/may pick up new ideas and concepts thoroughly.
What soft skills should all Senior Manufacturing Engineers possess?
Song Choi Ph.D.: Critical thinking - logical, problem-solving methodology... I'm not quite sure to categorize this as soft/professional skills or hard/technical skills, but probably one of the most necessary assets.
Communication - written, verbal, and overall listening (helps focus on the problem statement and requirements). Most, if not all, projects/tasks are worked in large groups; thus, listening and expressing correctly is important.
Time management - scheduling of tasks and deadlines are important in all levels of engineering, from small fabrication projects/tasks to medium-sized manufacturing projects/tasks to large development/research endeavors. In Hawaii, one of the most important has been the transportation of materials, parts, components, etc., as most items are flown or shipped to us, and the overall project schedule is dependent on the availability of sub-units.
Collaboration - as most if not all engineering projects are dependent on multiple sub-categories. Due to the collaborative nature of engineering, communication is of importance again.
Creativity, innovation, and initiative - it's really about making our future better, more convenient, safer, cleaner, etc. Think outside of the box or live outside of your comfort zone.
Detail-oriented - it is about replicating results. Everything an engineer performs should be documented and clear.
Honesty and integrity as there have been too many fabricated claims and fraud as well as engineering espionage.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Senior Manufacturing Engineers?
Song Choi Ph.D.: Fundamental competence and understanding of the mathematics (calculus), (physics), and fundamental engineering courses, generally the 2nd year and 3rd year courses. If the position requires more development/research type work, a higher competence, and understanding in the 4th year, more specific topic courses would be required. Project descriptions would be extremely important to assess these details.
For general engineering work, overall competence in all facets of mechanical engineering would be preferred - mechanics, fluids, thermodynamics, and materials/manufacturing.
As more and more mechanical engineering projects require the use of computer software and packages, a fundamental understanding of programming and the use of specific software - AutoCad, SolidWorks, MatLab, Simulink, computer languages, etc. would be assets.
If critical thinking is categorized as a technical skill involving logical thinking, it should also be considered...
Documentation of all aspects of engineering.
What skills will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers earn the most?
Song Choi Ph.D.: This would be critical thinking, communication, initiative, creativity, and leadership.
Stephen Kuchnicki Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Chair, Department of Civil and Mechanical EngineeringYork College of Pennsylvania
Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering
What skills stand out on Senior Manufacturing Engineer resumes?
Stephen Kuchnicki Ph.D.: The skills that stand out are, oddly enough, not necessarily the skills one associates with a mechanical engineering degree. That's because those skills are assumed - sure, you have mechanical design experience in your toolbox, but who doesn't with an ME degree? What stands out are skills beyond the norm. Some knowledge of electronics is good because mechanical engineers work with electrical engineers all the time. Team skills - especially leadership - always stand out. Practical knowledge of machining - not as a machinist, but to understand that parts need to get made and how to design something that is more readily made by a professional machinist - is always a plus as well. Many of these skills come from having to build projects and get your hands dirty, so to speak. Just making something on paper doesn't do the trick because that troubleshooting is lost - as well as the very important engineering step of validating your design. That is, you designed your device to do A, B, and C. How well does your device do those things?
What soft skills should all Senior Manufacturing Engineers possess?
Stephen Kuchnicki Ph.D.: Teamwork skills are critical. Engineers do not work alone often, if at all. The ability to communicate in a professional environment is also key. This can be the more traditional communication, like writing a report or giving a presentation, or something more modern like writing an email or even calling a supplier or a customer on the phone. Engineers have to do all of these things at some point or another, and a student with the confident ability to do so is well positioned for today's job market.
Another skill our employers say is crucial is adaptability. Modern engineers work with new technology and new products all the time. Engineers have to be willing to adapt their thinking to incorporate new ideas if they get the job done better. You simply can't afford to be caught in "how you've always done things."
Tied to this is the ability to keep learning. One of the things a good engineering program does is get its students to understand the need to learn independently and set them up to do so. It is very, very unlikely that what an engineer faces in the field will be like what they've seen before. There may be some new techniques that will help them accomplish their goal. Or they may work in a new industry - one of the jobs then becomes to learn more about the standards and techniques of that industry. If they have learned how to gain new knowledge independently, this isn't a problem for them.
What skills will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers earn the most?
Stephen Kuchnicki Ph.D.: I'd have to say that students set themselves apart by having some of those soft skills. They show adaptability and make themselves valuable in multiple roles. They don't stop learning and so are better prepared to adapt. They communicate well and work well as a part of the team, whether in a lead role or a team member role. They do the things that make the team around them better. And they blend that with a sharp analytical mind and the ability to apply logical thinking grounded in basic engineering principles.
Dr. David Grewell Ph.D.
Department Chair and ProfessorNorth Dakota State University
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Department
What skills stand out on Senior Manufacturing Engineer resumes?
Dr. David Grewell Ph.D.: The resume of an IE will detail the ability to solve problems and optimize processes for a broad range of industries, including healthcare, transportation, financial, entertainment, manufacturing, and human resources. These skills are further highlighted by the fact that the IE curriculum includes aspects of business management.
What soft skills should all Senior Manufacturing Engineers possess?
Dr. David Grewell Ph.D.: Communication, problem-solving abilities, leadership, and organizational skills are all key in allowing IE's to be successful in the workplace and to build teams that can collaborate and adapt to unexpected changes, challenges, and setbacks in the workplace. These skills also help them to leverage the resources to solve problems quickly with low costs allowing them to move on to the next challenge facing the world today in today's complex economy, in particular when facing a pandemic.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Senior Manufacturing Engineers?
Dr. David Grewell Ph.D.: An IE must be able to break down complex problems into manageable issues and provide solutions for these problems that face the world in today's complex interconnected systems. A background in statistics, design and analysis, process management, and a strong foundation in the engineering disciplines make this possible.
What skills will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers earn the most?
Dr. David Grewell Ph.D.: Good communication and leadership skills that are embedded in their curriculum enable IE's to quickly move up the corporate ladder and become the CEO of the nation's leading companies.
Mike DeVore Ph.D.
Professor & Program ChairCincinnati State Technical & Community College
Mechanical Engineering Technology
What skills stand out on Senior Manufacturing Engineer resumes?
Mike DeVore Ph.D.: The skills that stand out for the resumes of students who graduate from our MET program include CAD skills (AutoCAD, Inventor, SolidWorks, and NX), experience in additive manufacturing, hands-on skills in manual machining and CNC, knowledge of engineering materials, and well-rounded education that includes two semesters of co-op experience.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Senior Manufacturing Engineers?
Mike DeVore Ph.D.: -Computer-Aided Design
-Knowledge of manufacturing processes
-A good mathematics foundation
-Technical communication
-Problem solving
What skills will help Senior Manufacturing Engineers earn the most?
Mike DeVore Ph.D.: The most successful engineers have good technical skills, can follow instructions, pay attention to detail, are good problem solvers, and have good communication skills.
Bryant Harrison
InstructorMurray State University
Design Engineering Technology
What skills stand out on Senior Manufacturing Engineer resumes?
Bryant Harrison: Design Engineers should be able to think creatively and be prepared to use software to solve problems. Students who have acquired certifications in design software have shown some level of aptitude toward using that software to create and design engineering solutions.
What soft skills should all Senior Manufacturing Engineers possess?
Bryant Harrison: Engineers are constantly working with a variety of people on a project. These people could be other engineers in the same department or other departments, managers, stakeholders, and customers. The ability to communicate both on a technical and non-technical level with these people is likely the most important soft skill for a design engineer.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Senior Manufacturing Engineers?
Bryant Harrison: Designing, prototyping, testing, and iterating are likely the most important skills for a design engineer. This is what we strive to teach at Murray State in our Design Engineering Technology program. Many sub-skills would fall into these categories, such as CAD, design for manufacturing, 3D printing, and destructive/non-destructive testing.