In 2023, over 74,500 industrial engineering technologists and technicians were employed in the U.S., and the field is still growing. About 6,700 new jobs will open up each year, on average, until 2033, with a high demand for skilled workers.

Professionals within the Manufacturing Engineering Technology discipline help design, improve, and maintain systems that keep factories and production lines running efficiently. This field combines hands-on techniques, cutting-edge software, and innovation with strong problem-solving skills, helping to improve the quality of the products that we use daily. It also offers great reward, personally and financially.

Manufacturing Engineering Technology careers offer competitive pay, long-term job security, and a wide range of job options. With the right education, you will gain the skills needed to enter this field.

Below, we’ll explore career possibilities and the manufacturing engineering technology salary potential. Plus, see how an MET degree can prepare you for high-paying roles.

Career paths in Manufacturing Engineering Technology

A degree in Manufacturing Engineering Technology can prepare you for a variety of high-paying career options. These professionals play a crucial role in manufacturing environments by enhancing efficiency, supporting engineers, minimizing waste, and ensuring quality control throughout the production process.

Whether it’s developing new production methods, enhancing automation, or improving product quality, Manufacturing Engineering Technology professionals have a direct impact on the success of manufacturing companies and industries worldwide. And they get compensated as such!

Check out the below Manufacturing Engineering Technology career fields and their salaries:

• Chemical manufacturing: Median annual salary of $79,940
• Computer and electronic product manufacturing: Median annual salary of $101,020
• Machinery manufacturing: Median annual salary of $74,400
• Transportation equipment manufacturing: Median annual salary of $72,060
• Professional, scientific, and technical services: Median annual salary of $102,670

Manufacturing engineering technology salary information

Looking into the numbers a bit more, the national average salary for manufacturing engineering technologists and technicians sits at $69,780 annually (or $33.55 hourly), a very comfortable entry-level career.

And the future holds potential, a Manufacturing Engineering Technology associate degree salary builds over time, with gained experience and additional training. Plus, since many technicians and technologists work in high-tech and specialized manufacturing sectors, wages and benefits can get pretty competitive. For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top percentile of professionals in this field earn an average of $97,670 annually.

A deeper dive: Industrial engineering technologists and technicians

While there are many career paths to explore within the Manufacturing Engineering Technology field, below, let’s unpack some particularly in-demand entry-level titles.

Industrial engineering technologists and technicians play a vital role in supporting engineers in manufacturing environments by focusing on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing production processes and layouts. They work to create a system that is effective, cost-efficient, and sustainable, allowing manufacturers to stay competitive and environmentally responsible.

Industrial engineering technologists and technicians design facility layouts, analyze production data, test workflows, and recommend improvements to streamline operations. They also conduct time and cost studies to identify where delays or inefficiencies occur, providing data-driven insights that lead to better decision-making and smoother production.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the below industries offer the highest pay for industrial engineering technologists and technicians:

• Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution: $112,380 annual mean wage
• Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing: $111,570 per year, on average
• Oil and Gas Extraction: $106,340 annual average wage

Ready to earn big? Get your Manufacturing Engineering Technology degree at Goodwin.

Technologist vs. technician: What’s the difference?

The roles of technologist and technician are closely related, but can differ in scope, responsibility, and sometimes in educational background.

Technician

A technologist has typically completed an associate degree or certificate program in Engineering that gives them the expertise to recommend improvements in the industry, incorporate new technologies, resolve problems, and further develop various processes.

Technicians apply these ideas, create tasks, troubleshoot, and provide general maintenance on equipment. If you’re looking for a raise or more responsibility, and ready to move behind a desk rather than get your hands dirty operating equipment, running diagnostics, maintaining systems, and ensuring production runs smoothly, a technician may return to school to complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Technologist

A technologist typically holds a four-year engineering degree and more advanced responsibilities. As team leaders, they usually have more knowledge and experience in the use of various technologies, assisting their teams in system design, workflow planning, and efficiency improvement. They work closely with engineers to develop and refine manufacturing processes and oversee projects or provide technical guidance.

How a Manufacturing Engineering Technology degree prepares you

A degree in Manufacturing Engineering Technology provides the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in today’s manufacturing environment.

Technical knowledge

Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, students will develop a solid foundation in manufacturing processes and technologies. Specialized courses teach students about basic electrical concepts, technical drawing, computer-aided design, electrical schematics, manufacturing processes, quality management, and other essential topics when working in this field.

Coursework programs often emphasize real-world application. Students work in labs or simulated production environments where they gain familiarity with industry-standard tools, machinery, and software. This experience helps turn theory into practice, preparing graduates to take on roles that require both technical knowledge and practical skills.

Practical skills

Beyond technical knowledge, students develop essential practical skills, such as critical thinking, creative problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, that will enable them to be highly sought-after professionals. Whether you’re aiming to be a technician or technologist or continue your education, Manufacturing Engineering Technology can help you get a stable and rewarding career.

Why choose Goodwin University?

At Goodwin University, the Associate of Science in Manufacturing Engineering Technology is designed with industry needs in mind. The program prepares students to perform essential duties from assembly and automation to maintenance and design. The program’s hands-on learning and flexibility allow students to become professionals employers seek.

Hands-on learning

Goodwin University believes in the importance of practical, hands-on learning. The School of Business, Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing faculty are teaching and manufacturing experts who bring years of experience into the classroom. Allowing students to be well-prepared for real-world challenges they’ll encounter on the job.

Flexibility

Students at Goodwin University can tailor their education to personal scheduling needs and career goals. The Manufacturing Engineering Technology program is offered in full- or part-time formats, with classes held at night, allowing your schedule to accommodate your needs. Students also have the opportunity to choose an emphasis on Computer-Aided Design, Mechatronics, or Robotics Process Automation, allowing them to further explore specific fields they’re most interested in.

Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce quickly with a better Manufacturing Engineering Technology associate degree salary or build a foundation for further education, Goodwin provides the support you need to succeed.

Learn more about Manufacturing Engineering Technology programs at Goodwin University.