Career roadmap
How to Become an Industrial Production Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an industrial production manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an industrial production manager: (1) earn a bachelor’s, (2) start as an engineer or supervisor, (3) lead a department, (4) earn lean credentials, (5) become a production manager. Most people need about 5+ years of manufacturing experience. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an industrial production manager
Earn a bachelor’s
Engineering or business.
Start as an engineer or supervisor
Floor experience.
Lead a department
Area manager.
Earn lean credentials
Improvement skills.
Become a production manager
Run the plant.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, business or a related field is typical, plus years of experience.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | 5 years or more |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 5+ years of manufacturing experience |
Certifications and licenses
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt: Process improvement.
- APICS CPIM: Production planning.
- PMP: Project management.
- OSHA 30: Safety.
Skills to build now
Start with production planning, lean manufacturing, and budgeting, and practice leadership and decision-making. Learning the industrial production manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Production Supervisor: Lead a shift.
- Area Manager: Lead departments.
- Production Manager: Run production.
- Plant Manager or Director: Lead plants.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Industrial Production Manager 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 production managers work long hours?
Often, and they are on call.
How long does it take to become an industrial production manager?
Most people need about 5+ years of manufacturing experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, business or a related field is typical, plus years of experience.
Do you need a degree to be an industrial production manager?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
What certifications are available for industrial production managers?
Common credentials include Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, APICS CPIM, PMP, and OSHA 30. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-3051 (Industrial production managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Industrial production managers (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.