Production Engineer vs. Manufacturing Engineer: What Are the Differences?

If you’re interested in a career in engineering, you may be wondering what the difference is between a production engineer and a manufacturing engineer. Both roles are important in the engineering field, but they have different focuses. In this article, we compare and contrast production engineering and manufacturing engineering, and we provide information on what you can expect from each role.

What is a Production Engineer?

Production Engineers are responsible for optimizing production processes in factories or manufacturing plants. They work with managers, other engineers and production staff to implement process improvements that increase efficiency and output while reducing waste and costs. Production Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, although some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree or higher. They must be able to use various engineering software programs to design and test production processes. Production Engineers typically work in office settings, but they may also spend time on the production floor observing processes and collecting data.

What is a Manufacturing Engineer?

Manufacturing Engineers work in industrial settings to create systems and processes that streamline the production of goods. They develop assembly methods, create production schedules and oversee the construction of facilities. Manufacturing Engineers also optimize existing systems to increase efficiency and productivity. They work with other engineers, technicians, managers and workers to ensure that the manufacturing process runs smoothly and safely. They also troubleshoot problems that arise during production. Manufacturing Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering.

Production Engineer vs. Manufacturing Engineer

Here are the main differences between a production engineer and a manufacturing engineer.

Job Duties

Production engineers primarily focus on the technical aspects of production, while manufacturing engineers incorporate both technical and managerial elements into their jobs. Production engineers’ job duties include designing and developing processes and methods for producing products efficiently and effectively. They also conduct research to determine the best materials and equipment for manufacturing and design machinery and equipment that’s necessary for production.

In contrast, manufacturing engineers apply their knowledge of engineering, production and management to ensure that production plans are followed and that production goals are met. They monitor production to ensure it continues smoothly and troubleshoot when there are problems with production. They also develop new processes and procedures for production and manage teams involved in production.

Job Requirements

Production engineers and manufacturing engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, although some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree. These professionals also need to be licensed as professional engineers (PEs). To become licensed, they must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, which is offered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). After passing this exam, production and manufacturing engineers can work under the supervision of a licensed engineer for four years before taking the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, which is required to earn their PE license.

Work Environment

Production engineers typically work in manufacturing facilities, where they oversee the production of goods. They may also travel to different locations to evaluate and improve existing processes or develop new ones. Manufacturing engineers usually work in manufacturing facilities, but some may work for manufacturers as consultants who provide advice on improving efficiency.

Skills

Both production engineers and manufacturing engineers use technical skills to perform their jobs. They need to have an understanding of advanced mathematics, including calculus and trigonometry, as well as physics and chemistry. They also need to be able to read and interpret blueprints and schematics.

However, there are some differences in the specific skills each profession uses. Production engineers often benefit from having project management skills, as they may be responsible for overseeing the production process from start to finish. This can involve coordinating with different departments, such as purchasing and quality control, to ensure that all aspects of production run smoothly. Manufacturing engineers typically use more specialized skills, such as CAD (computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing), to create models and plans for products. They also may use Six Sigma or lean manufacturing techniques to streamline production processes and reduce waste.

Salary

The average salary for a production engineer is $81,466 per year, while the average salary for a manufacturing engineer is $86,882 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the engineer has.