Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists
O*NET 17-2112.01 · SOC 17-2112
Human Factors Engineer is a strong career choice. Median pay is $102k a year with +12.4% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 23,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Evaluate workplace designs to reduce worker fatigue and injury risk.
- →Conduct usability tests to assess how users interact with products.
- →Analyze human error data to redesign safer equipment interfaces.
- →Recommend workstation adjustments to improve operator comfort and efficiency.
- →Apply cognitive load principles to simplify complex control systems.
Education & How to Get In
Human Factors Engineer roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Human Factors Engineer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Human Factors Engineer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Human Factors Engineer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists is projected to grow 12.4% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·31% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Human Factors Engineer make?
The median Human Factors Engineer earns $102k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Human Factors Engineer jobs?
Our model puts Human Factors Engineer at 36 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 31% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Human Factors Engineer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 12.4% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 23,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Human Factors Engineer?
Human Factors Engineer roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Human Factors Engineer?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Human Factors Engineer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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