Ergonomics Specialist
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Evaluate workstations, tools, and tasks for injury risk
- Conduct on-site observations and worker interviews
- Measure physical demands such as lifting, reaching, and repetition
- Recommend workstation changes and tool improvements
- Develop safe work practices and handling guidelines
- Partner with Safety teams to investigate injury trends
- Support return-to-work planning with practical job modifications
- Deliver training on posture, lifting, and workstation setup
- Document assessments, recommendations, and follow-up results
- Collaborate with Engineering and Operations on design changes
- Track outcomes such as injury reduction and comfort improvements
Top Skills for Success
Ergonomic Risk Assessment
Workstation Design
Job Task Analysis
Human Factors
Injury Prevention
Safety Program Support
Data Analysis
Report Writing
Training Delivery
Stakeholder Management
Change Management
Attention to Detail
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Senior Ergonomics Specialist
Ergonomics Program Manager
Occupational Health and Safety Manager
Human Factors Specialist
EHS Manager
Transition Opportunities
Safety Manager
Industrial Engineer
Occupational Health Specialist
Risk Management Specialist
Operations Excellence Specialist
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Hands-on measurement methodsProgram managementCost benefit analysisInfluence without authorityOutcome trackingCross-functional project planningTool selection knowledge
Development SuggestionsBuild a repeatable assessment process, practice presenting recommendations with simple cost and impact estimates, and track outcomes over time. Seek projects that involve Engineering and Operations so you gain experience influencing design decisions.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry Level$55,000 to $75,000
Mid Level$75,000 to $100,000
Senior Level$100,000 to $135,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand driven by workplace safety focus, aging workforce, manufacturing modernization, and expansion of logistics and fulfillment operations.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
AmazonUPSFedExWalmartTeslaBoeingLockheed MartinGeneral MotorsFordJohnson and JohnsonProcter and GambleSiemens
Industry Sectors
ManufacturingWarehousingLogisticsTransportationHealthcareMedical devicesConstructionAerospaceConsumer goodsTechnology hardware
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a portfolio with 3 ergonomics case studies showing the problem, recommendation, and result2
Learn one standard ergonomics assessment method and apply it consistently3
Practice writing short reports that include clear actions and timelines4
Partner with Safety and Operations to review the top injury drivers and target one for improvement5
Strengthen data skills by tracking comfort feedback and injury trends over time6
Pursue relevant certification if it fits your background and local requirements7
Build relationships with Engineering teams to get involved earlier in workspace and tool design