Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Industrial Production Managers oversee the daily operations of manufacturing plants and similar places of production. They are responsible for coordinating, planning, and directing the activities used to create a wide range of goods, such as cars, computer equipment, or paper products.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: 5 years or more
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 1.6% (below average)
Annual job openings: 17,100
Direct AI exposure: 15% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 55% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $126K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $78K per year | $98K per year | $126K per year | $162K per year | $206K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $75K above the national average. | ||||
These managers typically work in manufacturing settings, which can include factories, plants, or production facilities. The environment is often fast-paced and may involve direct supervision of production activities. Managers might need to be on-call to address any production issues that arise outside of normal working hours.
Industrial Production Managers are integral to the manufacturing process, ensuring that products are made efficiently and effectively. They need to have a strong understanding of the production process, including the machinery and techniques used. This involves coordinating various aspects of production, such as planning, quality control, and maintenance, to meet production targets and ensure efficient operation.
These managers require excellent leadership and communication skills, as they often lead a team of production staff. They must be able to motivate employees, manage personnel issues, and ensure a productive work environment. Strong problem-solving skills are essential to address production challenges and implement process improvements.
Staying up to date on the latest manufacturing technologies and production techniques is vital. Industrial Production Managers need to be able to adapt to new technologies and find ways to integrate them into existing processes. They also play a key role in strategic planning, including setting production goals and making decisions about the use of resources.
A bachelor's degree in business administration, industrial engineering, or a related field is commonly required. Some managers may also have a degree in a specific field related to the industry they work in, such as chemical or mechanical engineering.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
