Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Design objects, facilities, and environments to optimize human well-being and overall system performance, applying theory, principles, and data regarding the relationship between humans and respective technology. Investigate and analyze characteristics of human behavior and performance as it relates to the use of technology.
Median pay: $102,440/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +11% projected growth, 2024–2034 — much faster than average.
About 25,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Collect data through direct observation of work activities or witnessing the conduct of tests.
• Conduct interviews or surveys of users or customers to collect information on topics, such as requirements, needs, fatigue, ergonomics, or interfaces.
• Advocate for end users in collaboration with other professionals, including engineers, designers, managers, or customers.
• Inspect work sites to identify physical hazards.
• Prepare reports or presentations summarizing results or conclusions of human factors engineering or ergonomics activities, such as testing, investigation, or validation.
• Recommend workplace changes to improve health and safety, using knowledge of potentially harmful factors, such as heavy loads or repetitive motions.
• Perform functional, task, or anthropometric analysis, using tools, such as checklists, surveys, videotaping, or force measurement.
• Provide technical support to clients through activities, such as rearranging workplace fixtures to reduce physical hazards or discomfort or modifying task sequences to reduce cycle time.
What's the median pay for Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists?
The median pay for Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists is $102,440 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists?
Employment for Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists is projected to change +11% from 2024 to 2034 - much faster than average.
What education is typically required for Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists?
About 25,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.