Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists does

These engineers design products, systems, and workspaces that are safe, comfortable, and easy for people to use by studying human behavior and capabilities. They reduce injury and fatigue while improving productivity and user satisfaction.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a master's degree. About 6 years (bachelor's + ~2-year master's).

Estimated cost of that path: ~$70,000. Estimated payback: ~3 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Civil Engineers — $100,840/yr
• Transportation Engineers — $100,840/yr
• Water/Wastewater Engineers — $100,840/yr
• Manufacturing Engineers — $102,440/yr
• Validation Engineers — $102,440/yr