Human Factors Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

As we progress further into the era of technology, the significance of human factors engineers is more pronounced than ever.

As technology evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can understand, analyze, and optimize the interaction between humans and the systems they use is on the rise.

But what exactly does a human factors engineer do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager detailing the ideal qualifications,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of human factors engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable human factors engineer job description template, ready for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Human Factors Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Human Factors Engineers, also known as Ergonomists, focus on understanding human behaviors, capabilities, and limitations in relation to the design and development of systems, products, environments, and organizations.

They ensure these elements are designed to meet the needs of the user, enhancing overall user experience and safety.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Analyzing and understanding user requirements, capabilities, and limitations
• Designing and implementing user-centered systems, products, and work environments
• Conducting user research, interviews, and observations to understand user behavior
• Applying ergonomics and human factors principles to optimize system performance and user satisfaction
• Conducting usability tests to evaluate system performance and user experience
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, designers, and psychologists
• Developing and implementing training programs for system users
• Identifying and mitigating potential human-system interaction risks
• Documenting findings and communicating results to stakeholders and team members
• Staying up-to-date with the latest research and trends in human factors and ergonomics

 

Human Factors Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Human Factors Engineer to join our team.

The successful candidate will use their understanding of human capabilities and limitations to design and optimize products, systems, and work environments to be safe, efficient, and user-friendly.

A Human Factors Engineer will be responsible for conducting user research, creating design specifications, and conducting usability testing, with a strong focus on ergonomics and human-computer interaction.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of human behavior, excellent problem-solving skills, and a strong background in designing user-centered interfaces and systems.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and analyze systems in terms of human factors, ergonomics, and user requirements.
• Design and conduct studies to understand human behavior and interaction with systems.
• Develop design specifications and requirements based on research findings.
• Work closely with design and development teams to implement design recommendations.
• Conduct usability testing and provide recommendations for improvements.
• Create user profiles, scenarios, and task analyses.
• Ensure the safety, efficiency, and user-friendliness of designs.
• Prepare and present reports and findings to team members and stakeholders.
• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in human factors engineering.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Human Factors Engineer or similar role.
• Strong understanding of human behavior, ergonomics, and user-centered design principles.
• Experience in conducting user research and usability testing.
• Proficient in design software and tools, such as CAD.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• BSc degree in Human Factors Engineering, Ergonomics, Industrial Design, or a related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Human Factors Engineer
• Work Environment: Office setting with some on-site work in research and testing environments. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Human Factors Engineering.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Human Factors Engineer Do?

Human Factors Engineers, also known as Ergonomists, work in a broad range of industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and technology.

They may also work as independent consultants or as part of a larger engineering or design team.

Their primary responsibility is to understand how humans interact with machines, systems, and environments, and then apply this knowledge to the design of products, processes, and systems to optimize human well-being and overall performance.

They conduct research and analyze data to understand user behavior, capabilities, and limitations.

This includes the study of physical, cognitive, and psychological aspects.

These engineers also collaborate with product designers and engineers to develop prototypes and conduct usability testing.

They provide recommendations to improve the design and usability of products or systems based on their findings.

Human Factors Engineers may also be involved in developing training programs, user manuals, and workspace designs to enhance the user experience and productivity.

Their goal is to make sure that products, systems, and environments are not only safe and efficient, but also comfortable and enjoyable to use.

 

Human Factors Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Human Factors Engineer should have the skills and qualifications that meet your job description, such as:

• Strong analytical skills to study, design, and evaluate products, ensuring they are human-friendly, easy to use, and meet the desired safety standards.
• Technical knowledge in human physiology and psychology to understand how human characteristics and behaviors can impact the use of products or systems.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with designers and engineers, conveying complex human factors principles in a clear and accessible manner.
• Attention to detail to identify potential issues in product design that may affect user experience or safety.
• Problem-solving skills to rectify design flaws and enhance product usability, ensuring they meet the needs of the user and comply with safety regulations.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team, collaborating effectively with designers, engineers, and other professionals.
• Knowledge of design standards and regulations relevant to human factors engineering.
• Expertise in conducting user research, usability testing, and ergonomic assessments.
• Technical skills in data analysis and interpretation to understand user feedback and translate it into practical design improvements.

 

Human Factors Engineer Experience Requirements

An entry-level Human Factors Engineer may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time position in a related field like industrial design, psychology, or engineering.

These professionals may also gain relevant experience working in roles such as User Experience (UX) Designer, Ergonomics Consultant, or Safety Engineer.

Academic projects or research in human factors, ergonomics, or usability testing can also contribute to the necessary experience for this role.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are likely to have developed their skills in areas like user research, usability testing, product design, and human-computer interaction.

They may also have worked in roles like Human Factors Specialist or Ergonomics Engineer.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have a solid background in leading projects and teams.

They may have developed their expertise in areas like system design, human performance, and risk assessment.

At this level, candidates are often ready for roles that require more leadership, such as Human Factors Team Lead or Project Manager.

They may also be qualified to work in specialized roles like Aviation Human Factors Engineer or Medical Device Human Factors Engineer, which may require additional industry-specific experience.

 

Human Factors Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Human Factors Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, psychology, or another related field.

This could also be specifically in Human Factors or Ergonomics.

They require a strong background in both engineering and psychology because this field combines elements of the two.

Knowledge in areas such as biomechanics, anthropometry, sensory science, and cognitive psychology is essential.

Several positions may require Human Factors Engineers to hold a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in a specific discipline like Human Factors Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Ergonomics.

This is especially true for research-based positions or those in academic settings.

Additionally, they may need to pursue certification from a recognized body like the Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics (BCPE).

This could involve receiving a Certified Human Factors Professional (CHFP) or Certified Ergonomics Professional (CEP) designation.

Having a master’s degree or Ph.D., and/or certification may indicate a candidate’s in-depth understanding of human factors, their dedication to the field, and their potential for leadership.

Moreover, practical experience through internships or cooperative engineering programs can be beneficial in gaining hands-on experience in applying ergonomic and human factors principles in real-world situations.

Ongoing education and staying updated with the latest research findings is critical in this rapidly evolving field.

 

Human Factors Engineer Salary Expectations

A Human Factors Engineer typically earns an average salary of $85,562 (USD) per year.

However, actual earnings can vary significantly depending on the level of experience, specific industry, and geographical location.

 

Human Factors Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills are required for a Human Factors Engineer?

Human Factors Engineers should have a strong analytical mind and problem-solving skills, as they need to identify and address human performance issues related to the design of products and systems.

They should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with design and production teams.

A background in psychology, engineering, and design is also beneficial.

 

Do Human Factors Engineers need a specific degree?

Yes, typically, a Human Factors Engineer should hold a bachelor’s degree in human factors engineering, industrial engineering, psychology, or a related field.

Many also pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in human factors or a related discipline.

A degree gives them the necessary theoretical knowledge about human behavior, physiology, and ergonomics.

 

What should you look for in a Human Factors Engineer’s resume?

A Human Factors Engineer’s resume should show a combination of education in related fields such as psychology, engineering, or design and practical experience in human factors engineering.

Look for specific projects they’ve worked on, including their role and the outcomes of the project.

Skills in data analysis, user experience design, and familiarity with relevant software and tools are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Human Factors Engineer?

A good Human Factors Engineer has a strong understanding of human behavior and the ability to apply this knowledge to improve product or system design.

They should be detail-oriented and able to identify potential design flaws that could hinder usability or safety.

They must also be good communicators, able to explain complex information in a way that non-specialists can understand.

 

Is it challenging to hire Human Factors Engineers?

The field of human factors engineering is specialized, so finding candidates with the right mix of skills and experience can be challenging.

Companies should be prepared to actively recruit and offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract top talent.

It can also be beneficial to work with universities or professional organizations that specialize in human factors engineering to find potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a Human Factors Engineer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about designing systems.

It’s about creating a seamless interaction between humans and technology, one user-friendly design at a time.

With our comprehensive Human Factors Engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on a new journey.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your one-stop solution for crafting flawless job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Bear in mind:

Every user-friendly design is part of a larger ecosystem.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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