Production Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s industrial landscape, the role of production engineers has become increasingly crucial.

As manufacturing processes evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can optimize, manage, and ensure the efficiency of these operations grows ever stronger.

But what exactly does a production engineer do?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
A hiring manager looking to define the perfect candidate,
Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of production engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a flexible production engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight in.

Contents show

Production Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Production Engineers focus on improving manufacturing and production processes.

They use their expertise in the field of engineering to ensure the efficiency and safety of production lines while adhering to budgetary considerations and timeline.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

Designing and implementing cost-effective equipment modifications to help improve safety and reliability
Developing a project specification with colleagues, often including those from other engineering disciplines
Applying new technologies and methodologies in manufacturing practices to increase efficiency and reduce waste
Ensuring all production equipment and processes comply with safety standards and regulations
Investigating and troubleshooting any problems that arise with processes, machinery, and operations
Coordinating with other engineers, suppliers, and customers to discuss and solve quality issues
Reviewing and improving production schedules and manpower requirements
Setting and achieving performance targets for production efficiency
Maintaining and calibrating technical equipment to ensure optimum performance
Training and supervising team members in the use of new production processes and equipment

Production Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Production Engineer to oversee the design and manufacturing processes of our products.

The responsibilities of a Production Engineer include designing the manufacturing process, managing budgets, supervising the production team, and ensuring products are designed and produced efficiently and cost-effectively.

The successful candidate should have a thorough knowledge of manufacturing process, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to streamline production processes to ensure that the company’s operational and financial targets are met.

Responsibilities

Planning, managing, and overseeing all elements of production in the facility.
Ensuring machinery and equipment run smoothly and reliably.
Designing new equipment, procedures, and systems for industrial purposes.
Performing routine equipment maintenance and troubleshooting malfunctions.
Implementing and enforcing safety guidelines and procedures.
Working with other engineers and management to develop budgets, cost analysis, and cost control.
Ensuring the facility complies with all health and safety regulations.
Continuously finding ways to improve production efficiency.

Qualifications

Proven work experience as a Production Engineer or similar role.
Knowledge of manufacturing process and equipment.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Good knowledge of health and safety regulations.
Excellent project management skills.
Proficiency in MS Office and AutoCAD.
BSc degree in Engineering, Manufacturing or relevant field.

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Opportunities for professional development

Additional Information

Job Title: Production Engineer
Work Environment: Factory setting. Safety gear is often required. Some travel may be required for meetings or to visit supplier’s manufacturing facilities.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager or Operations Manager.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $62,150 minimum to $102,000 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 Production Engineer Do?

Production Engineers typically work for manufacturing and industrial companies, where they oversee and improve production processes.

They can also be self-employed or work as consultants.

Their main responsibility is to ensure that the manufacturing process is as efficient as possible.

They achieve this by analyzing current production procedures, making recommendations for improvements, and implementing new systems or procedures.

Production Engineers use a variety of tools and methodologies to analyze and improve production processes.

They often use computer simulation and modeling, as well as mathematical or statistical analysis, to predict how changes will affect the production process.

They work closely with other professionals such as Production Managers, Quality Control Managers, and Industrial Engineers to ensure that products are produced on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.

Production Engineers may also be responsible for designing and implementing new production equipment.

This could involve researching and purchasing new machinery, or designing and building custom equipment to improve production efficiency.

They often also play a key role in safety and environmental management in the workplace.

They ensure that safety regulations are followed, identify potential hazards, and work to minimize the environmental impact of production processes.

Their work can be challenging and complex, requiring a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical systems, and industrial automation.

Production Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A Production Engineer should have a combination of technical skills, industry knowledge, and soft skills to efficiently manage the manufacturing process.

These include:

Technical knowledge of the manufacturing process and machinery, understanding the intricacies of how products are made and how to optimize the process.
Problem-solving skills to identify issues in the production process and implement effective solutions to keep the production line running smoothly.
Project management skills to oversee various production projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Communication skills to clearly convey ideas and instructions to the production team, as well as discuss project progress and issues with senior management.
Attention to detail and organizational skills to manage multiple facets of the production process simultaneously while maintaining high quality standards.
Ability to work collaboratively with other professionals, such as Quality Assurance, Process Engineers, and Plant Managers to ensure the overall effectiveness of the production process.
Understanding of safety standards and regulations in the manufacturing industry to ensure a safe working environment.

Production Engineer Experience Requirements

Production Engineer candidates at an entry-level typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, which can be obtained through internships, part-time roles, or co-op programs in a manufacturing or industrial setting.

These professionals can gain practical knowledge and experience in roles such as Production Technician, Quality Control Assistant, or other engineering-related roles.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience usually have honed their skills in various manufacturing processes, cost-reduction methods, and quality control standards.

These candidates often have experience in coordinating with different departments, overseeing production processes, and implementing new technologies to improve efficiency.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically well-versed in project management and might have led teams for process optimization or quality improvement projects.

They are adept in the entire production lifecycle, from initial design and prototyping to mass production and quality assurance.

For more senior roles, employers often seek candidates with substantial experience in managing production teams, implementing continuous improvement initiatives, and developing strategies for manufacturing efficiency.

These individuals are often expected to have a proven track record in improving manufacturing processes and reducing operational costs.

Production Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Production Engineers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, industrial, chemical, or electrical engineering.

Their coursework should include subjects like mathematics, physics, computer science, and even business management.

This foundational knowledge is crucial as Production Engineers must understand manufacturing processes, production quality control, and cost analysis.

For more specialized roles or leadership positions, a master’s degree in engineering management or business administration may be required.

Having hands-on experience through internships or work placements can be beneficial for understanding practical aspects of production and manufacturing.

Additional certifications, such as Certified Manufacturing Engineer or Lean Six Sigma, can enhance job prospects and demonstrate a commitment to the field.

Continuing education is also crucial for Production Engineers, as they need to stay updated with the latest advancements in technology and production methods.

Some employers may also require knowledge of specific software programs used in the production process.

As with many engineering professions, state licensure may be required.

Licensure usually requires a degree from an accredited engineering program, a certain amount of professional experience, and passing scores on both the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineering (PE) exam.

Production Engineer Salary Expectations

A Production Engineer typically earns an average salary of $71,507 (USD) per year.

This salary may vary depending on factors such as the individual’s experience, education, and the location of employment.

Also, the industry in which they are employed can significantly influence their earnings.

Production Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Production Engineer need?

Production Engineers should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and improve production process issues.

They should have a good understanding of production processes, equipment, and quality control techniques.

They also need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with team members, production operators, and managers.

Knowledge of CAD software, project management, and lean manufacturing principles is often required.

Do Production Engineers need a degree?

Yes, Production Engineers typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, preferably in Industrial, Mechanical, or Production Engineering.

Some positions may require a Master’s degree or additional certifications, such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license.

Practical experience through internships or co-op programs is also highly valued.

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

When hiring a Production Engineer, look for a degree in a relevant field and experience in a manufacturing environment.

Check for their knowledge of production systems, equipment, and quality control methods.

Experience with specific software, such as CAD or ERP systems, may also be beneficial.

Any certifications, such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing, can be a plus.

What qualities make a good Production Engineer?

A good Production Engineer is detail-oriented, analytical, and an excellent problem-solver.

They should be comfortable working under pressure and capable of managing multiple projects at the same time.

Good Production Engineers are also team players who can effectively communicate with all levels of the organization.

They should be continuously learning and staying updated with the latest industry trends and technology.

What are the daily duties of a Production Engineer?

A typical day for a Production Engineer might include reviewing production schedules and processes, identifying any issues or bottlenecks, and working with the team to resolve them.

They might also conduct regular inspections of equipment, coordinate maintenance and repairs, and work on improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the production process.

Part of their day may also be spent on project management, safety compliance, and reporting.

Is it difficult to hire Production Engineers?

Hiring a Production Engineer can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the role.

It’s important to offer competitive salaries, opportunities for career growth, and an environment that encourages continuous learning and improvement.

Conclusion

And so, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of being a production engineer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about overseeing processes.

It’s about meticulously constructing the backbone of our industries, one production line at a time.

Equipped with our in-depth production engineer job description template and real-world instances, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why draw the line there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to crafting razor-sharp job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Never forget:

Every production process contributes to the larger framework.

Let’s construct that future. Side by side.

Reasons to Become a Production Engineer (Fueling Industrial Growth)