Companies are finally figuring out that preventing workplace injuries costs a fraction of treating them, and that’s creating real demand for ergonomics professionals.
It’s a field where you can work in automotive manufacturing one year and hospital design the next.
We broke down 10 ergonomics careers with honest details on what each role involves, what qualifications you’ll need, and how to actually get hired.
1. Ergonomist for Automotive Industry
Bachelor’s degree in safety and health or related field, particularly ergonomics is essential More than five years of construction safety experience is required More than three years of experience in life science, health, lab, and/or pharmaceutical fields is required Knowledge of testing equipment, to ensure the functionality Excellent communication skills in writing and speaking Microsoft Office skills are a must for documentation Knowledge of local laws and regulations is a must Knowledge of hazardous situations, as well as prevention and containment, is important Team-building expertise
The support provider is the one to “provide pre- and post-operative care, for a variety of orthopedic-related disorders and sports-related injuries, rehabilitation of injured workers, and preventative care” as defined by Lensa .
In short, when an athlete is injured, hurt, or in some kind of discomfort, the support provider will give assistance to him or her.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? An ergonomist for the automotive industry can improve “the worker interface, by reducing/eliminating ergonomic issues associated with a product, process, tooling, workstation, and man-assignment”, as said in Ergoworld.
In the automotive industry, ergonomics is very important, as both manufacturing automotive, and using them, involves a need for deep study of the human body.
The automotive industry ergonomist is required to study the high-priority jobs in his manufacturing plant, making sure he unearths all risks and problems, before solving said problems. Many of these professionals start by earning an ergonomics degree from an accredited program.
He or she must also note all injuries that happen on the job, and other than problem-solving, the ergonomist must eliminate all non-essential workers for a certain section or position, as a means of optimizing the work process and reducing waste.
2. Environmental Health And Safety Specialist
Attending meetings with leading figures of the company is important, allowing the life science safety specialist to communicate efficiently, and keep the leadership up-to-date.
Should a contractor or employee be injured on the job, the specialist must ensure the injured worker attends treatment processes.
The specialist must also keep the leadership updated, on the worker’s healing process and condition, particularly the worker’s supervisor, whom the specialist must report to.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? In the manufacturing industry, many accidents and injuries can happen, no matter how many safety precautions are put in place.
This is where an environmental health and safety specialist comes in.
While there is no foolproof safety program, the specialist can continuously improve upon existing ones, to actively prevent incidents from happening, and when they do, how to take care of them. For details on what these roles pay, see our ergonomics salary guide.
The specialist will have to work with management and assess the safety program, reporting back at set intervals, to ensure the leadership is kept up-to-date.
3. Life Science/Bio Safety Specialist
This allows him or her to protect the safety of the workers, as well as find the cause of a problem or accident, should one arise.
Using internal systems designed to track and record findings, the life science safety specialist will document relevant data, after conducting safety audits in hazardous work areas.
When a problem is found, clients will be made aware of it, and a suitable solution or solutions must be proposed, eliminate the problem or problems.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? In the life science industry, there are different risks and dangers, as compared to manufacturing plants.
This industry still requires the skills of an ergonomist, but with a specialization in a different field, such as life science.
The life science safety specialist will first and foremost, be in charge of coordinating safety programs and inspecting construction sites. This allows him or her to protect the safety of the workers, as well as find the cause of a problem or accident, should one arise.
4. Ergonomic and Industrial Sports Medicine Support Provider
In the life science industry, there are different risks and dangers, as compared to manufacturing plants.
This industry still requires the skills of an ergonomist, but with a specialization in a different field, such as life science.
The life science safety specialist will first and foremost, be in charge of coordinating safety programs and inspecting construction sites.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? The support provider is the one to “provide pre- and post-operative care, for a variety of orthopedic-related disorders and sports-related injuries, rehabilitation of injured workers, and preventative care” as defined by Lensa .
In short, when an athlete is injured, hurt, or in some kind of discomfort, the support provider will give assistance to him or her.
Physical therapy is common for athletes, as they are very often at risk of injury, particularly in very explosive sports or prolonged exertion. The support provider will have to be on-site, as being in a remote job for a job like this is counterproductive.
5. Assistant Furniture Installer And Delivery Tech
After conducting investigations, the specialist must write reports on his or her findings when in the field, and this will be done to ensure that, the manufacturing plant is following mandated standards, as well as other rules and regulations.
The specialist must also ensure that proper use of PPE is followed, to ensure safety, and reduce the risk of injury when workers are in the field.
An Associate or Bachelor’s degree in ergonomics or a related field is required At least six years of safety experience is required for the role of a specialist Some environmental experience is also desirable Having experience in driving a strong safety culture and developing safety programs is an essential Knowledge of safety and environmental local laws and regulations is a must
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? Furniture is everywhere, and quite integral to everyone’s lives.
Thus, furniture products must be designed to fit humans, and not humans adapting to furniture with potentially harmful results.
This is where the ergonomics expert comes in, with his or her expertise. He or she must ensure, that the products sold by the company are up to ergonomic standards, and comfortable for consumers to use.
6. Human Factors Engineer
He or she will have to check and make sure all processes and activities are proceeding smoothly, so as so to eliminate risks.
To make sure the specialist is keeping tabs with the situation, he or she will have to walk in and check with personnel, regularly.
The equipment used to manufacture products must also be inspected regularly, and the specialist will have to do this personally as well.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? Another name of ergonomics is human factors, and these two are often used interchangeably.
In this case, the human factors engineer is a job, that requires skill in ergonomics.
Learning more about human factors psychology can give you a strong foundation for this role.
As a human factors engineer, your job is to design “objects, facilities, and environments, to optimize human well-being and overall system performance,” as said by OwlGuru . In short, with consideration of the human body’s limits and comfort requirements, you must design products that do not hurt consumers.
7. Ergonomics Researcher
While there is no foolproof safety program, the specialist can continuously improve upon existing ones, to actively prevent incidents from happening, and when they do, how to take care of them.
The specialist will have to work with management and assess the safety program, reporting back at set intervals, to ensure the leadership is kept up-to-date.
As manufacturing plants have hazards and dangerous locations, the specialist will have to interface, with personnel in those areas and monitor the activity.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? Perhaps being in the field as a tech or specialist isn’t an ergonomist’s forte, and you just might be one of those people.
If you happen to be like this and prefer to spend time researching, then the position of an ergonomics researcher would suit you very well.
An ergonomics researcher’s main duty is, to carry out studies for the company, focusing on how to better implement new ergonomics knowledge and information, into the current practice. In addition to this, there are a variety of other duties involved.
8. Student Ergonomics Specialist
A Bachelor of Science with a concentration in ergonomics, kinetics, kinesiology, or some related field is essential and non-negotiable Certification is preferred but not necessary Preferably more than two years in the ergonomics field, applying the skills in a manufacturing setting Some plants require being bilingual, as they might be located in an overseas country, that does not speak English as a primary language The ergonomist should also be familiar with Microsoft Office products, to ensure, that the ergonomist can perform his or her data recording duties competently Along with this, secondary ergonomics analysis skills must be in the ergonomist’s repertoire
In the manufacturing industry, many accidents and injuries can happen, no matter how many safety precautions are put in place.
This is where an environmental health and safety specialist comes in.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? Students are often cooped up in classrooms, listening to lectures for hours, as well as doing assignments, and sitting down for extended periods.
As such, they might develop injuries and discomfort from studying too long, particularly if their equipment is not ergonomic.
This is where the student ergonomics specialist comes in. Using advanced knowledge in ergonomics, particularly with furniture in classrooms and other study spaces, the specialist will guide to the college or university, on which equipment is the best.
9. Hospital Injury Prevention Specialist
He or she must also note all injuries that happen on the job, and o ther than problem-solving, the ergonomist must eliminate all non-essential workers for a certain section or position, as a means of optimizing the work process and reducing waste.
This helps optimize the job and speed up the process, and if there are changes in a product or job position, the ergonomist has to assess these changes, and note all the data he or she can while doing so.
This can help gather data, to prevent mistakes and slow processes in the manufacturing plant.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? You’d expect hospitals to be very ergonomic, because, patients have to be cared for with the best equipment, and you’re right!
The injury prevention specialist is the person for the job, and unlike some of the other jobs listed here, this is quite specialized, even when compared to other jobs with “specialist” in the name.
A specialist must constantly inspect the workplace, to make sure all equipment is conforming to safety standards. In the case of a hospital, the specialist will be focusing on medical equipment and, maintaining the safety programs of the hospital.
10. Flight Crew Integration Lead
An ergonomist for the automotive industry can improve “the worker interface, by reducing/eliminating ergonomic issues associated with a product, process, tooling, workstation, and man-assignment”, as said in Ergoworld.
In the automotive industry, ergonomics is very important, as both manufacturing automotive, and using them, involves a need for deep study of the human body.
The automotive industry ergonomist is required to study the high-priority jobs in his manufacturing plant, making sure he unearths all risks and problems, before solving said problems.
Have you ever thought about getting an ergonomics jobs? If you answered yes to the question above, then this article is for you, but first, let’s cover the basics.
What is ergonomics? This particular position has very high qualifications, as seen by the position offered by Leidos .
The lead has to support the Human Factors team and, also focus on how astronauts live in space when they are sent to the ISS.
As such, the requirements and duties are very high-end. The lead has to work with a lot of space hardware, and equipment while providing ergonomics advice.
Physical therapy is common for athletes, as they are very often at risk of injury, particularly in very explosive sports or prolonged exertion.
The support provider will have to be on-site, as being in a remote job for a job like this is counterproductive.
He or she will administer first-aid if required, as well as manage the on-site discomforts experienced by patients, whether work-related or not.
After a patient is treated, the support provider will have to file a report electronically, doing the same for bills.
The company the support provider is working for will have created and implemented safety programs already, and it is the support provider’s job to implement them and coordinate them.
Should there be any flaws in the program, the support provider can also offer advice on how to improve upon it, to prevent injuries.
A bachelor’s degree in ergonomics, sports medicine, or related field is essential CPR certifications as a Professional Rescuer and other related certifications are required, as this job might have the support provider tackle emergencies At least two years of experience in healthcare Excellent communication abilities in speech, writing, and electronic methods Ability to manage time well and multitask in an environment with fast paces Can pass a background check and drug screen when needed Any experience with ergonomics is a plus
Buying Guide
Breaking into ergonomics requires the right combination of education, certification, and practical experience. Here’s how to position yourself.
If you’re unsure where to start, our ergonomic consultant career guide lays out the full career path.
Required Education Level
Entry-level positions in ergonomics typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in human factors, kinesiology, industrial engineering, or occupational health. Senior roles and consulting positions usually require a master’s or PhD.
Match your education investment to the role you’re targeting.
Certification (CPE, AEP, CHFP)
The Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) designation from BCPE is the gold standard. It requires a master’s degree, 200+ hours of coursework, and work experience.
The Associate Ergonomics Professional (AEP) is a stepping stone if you’re still building experience.
Industry Specialization
Ergonomics jobs span automotive, healthcare, tech, military, and manufacturing. The skills overlap, but employers want domain-specific experience.
Interning or freelancing in your target industry gives you a massive edge over candidates with only academic credentials.
Salary Expectations by Role
Entry-level ergonomists start around $55-65K. Mid-career professionals with CPE certification typically earn $80-100K.
Senior consultants and directors in large corporations can exceed $130K. Location, industry, and certification status are the three biggest factors in your earning potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of degree do I need to become an ergonomist?
At minimum, you’ll want a bachelor’s in human factors, kinesiology, industrial engineering, or occupational health. If you’re aiming for senior roles or consulting work, a master’s degree or board certification like CPE or CIE will really set you apart.
Which ergonomics jobs pay the best?
Human factors engineers and automotive ergonomists tend to pull in the most, often clearing $90,000 a year. Flight crew integration leads and hospital injury prevention specialists aren’t far behind either.
Is it possible to get into ergonomics without a science degree?
It’s tougher, but it’s not impossible. Some roles like assistant furniture installer or ergonomic product sales don’t necessarily need one.
But for consulting and specialist positions? Most employers will want to see coursework in anatomy, biomechanics, or engineering on your resume.
Final Thoughts
Ergonomics is one of those fields where demand keeps growing because companies are finally taking workplace injuries and employee comfort seriously. The entry points are wider than most people think.
The 1. Ergonomist for Automotive Industry stands out as the clear winner.
The 3. Life Science/Bio Safety Specialist is our value pick.
Ergonomics careers stretch across automotive, healthcare, aerospace, and tech.
The field keeps growing, and if you’ve got certifications like CPE or CIE, you’re going to have a much easier time landing interviews and negotiating better pay.
