Industrial engineers (IEs) apply science, mathematics, and engineering methods to complex system integration and operations. Because these systems are so large and complex, IEs need to have knowledge and skills in a wide variety of disciplines, the ability to work well with people, and a broad, systems perspective. Industrial engineers use their knowledge and skills to improve systematic processes through the use of statistical analysis, interpersonal communication, design, planning, quality control, operations management, computer simulation, and problem solving.
As systems integrators, industrial engineers analyze and design facilities (buildings, rooms, equipment, infrastructures, etc.), material handling systems, manufacturing and production systems, information systems and individual and group workplaces. In the operations realm, IEs analyze, design, and manage manufacturing and service processes, production systems planning and control, resource allocation and scheduling, personnel assignment and scheduling, quality assurance, inventory control and system and personnel safety.
Industrial engineering is a branch of engineering which deals with the optimization of complex processes or systems. Industrial engineers work to eliminate waste of time, money, materials, man-hours, machine time, energy and other resources that do not generate value. According to the Institute of Industrial Engineers, they figure out how to do things better. They engineer processes and systems that improve quality and productivity.