Career roadmap
How to Become an Industrial Engineering Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an industrial engineering technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an industrial engineering technician: (1) earn an associate degree, (2) learn CAD and Excel, (3) get hired, (4) earn lean credentials, (5) advance. Most people need about 2-year degree. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an industrial engineering technician
Earn an associate degree
Engineering technology.
Learn CAD and Excel
Tools.
Get hired
Technician.
Earn lean credentials
Skills.
Advance
Engineer with a bachelor’s.
Education and training requirements
An associate degree in engineering technology is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2-year degree |
Certifications and licenses
- Lean Six Sigma Yellow or Green Belt: Improvement.
- CQT: Certified Quality Technician.
- CAD certificate: Drafting.
- OSHA 10: Safety.
Skills to build now
Start with time study, data collection, and cad, and practice attention to detail and communication. Learning the industrial engineering technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- IE Technician: Entry.
- Senior Technician: Lead projects.
- Industrial Engineer: With a degree.
- Engineering Manager: Lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Industrial Engineering Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do IE technicians need a degree?
An associate degree is typical.
How long does it take to become an industrial engineering technician?
Most people need about 2-year degree of training. An associate degree in engineering technology is typical.
Do you need a degree to be an industrial engineering technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for industrial engineering technicians?
Common credentials include Lean Six Sigma Yellow or Green Belt, CQT, CAD certificate, and OSHA 10. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 17-3026 (Industrial engineering technologists and technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Industrial engineering technologists and technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.