How to Be Ergonomist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 28, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Ergonomists play an important role in improving workplace safety and health. By designing and evaluating the environment, products, and systems used in the workplace, they help to reduce the risk of occupational injuries, discomfort, and fatigue. Ergonomics is a science that considers the physical and psychological aspects of human interaction with a work environment.

By applying ergonomic principles to the design of work tools and processes, ergonomists can reduce the risks associated with repetitive motions, long hours of sitting or standing, heavy lifting, and other potentially hazardous activities. This can lead to improved productivity, as well as fewer incidents of worker injury. the use of ergonomic principles can help to reduce the cost of medical care associated with musculoskeletal disorders, which are often caused by poor ergonomic design.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. The first step toward a career as an ergonomist is to earn a bachelor's degree. Prospective ergonomists should consider earning a bachelor's degree in kinesiology, exercise science, biomechanics, or a related field.
Pursue Certification. After earning a bachelor's degree, prospective ergonomists should pursue professional certification through the Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics (BCPE). To become certified, students must pass an exam and meet additional requirements.
Obtain Work Experience. Many employers require certified ergonomists to have at least two years of experience in the field. Working as an intern or volunteer in an ergonomics-related position can be a great way to gain experience and build a professional network.
Consider an Advanced Degree. To advance in the field of ergonomics, many professionals seek an advanced degree in ergonomics, biomechanics, or a related field. Earning an advanced degree can increase an individual's job prospects and earning potential.
Join Professional Organizations. Professional organizations offer ergonomists the opportunity to network with other professionals in the field and stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field. Consider joining organizations like the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society or the American Society of Safety Engineers.

Sitting in an ideal ergonomic position can lead to improved work productivity, fewer physical stressors and less fatigue. Correct posture and the use of ergonomic furniture can help workers maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce strain on their backs, necks and shoulders. an ergonomic workspace can reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful condition caused by repeated motion of the wrist.

To ensure an ideal ergonomic environment, employers should provide adequate training and resources for their employees, such as adjustable chairs and desks, footrests and other supportive furniture. They should also allow their employees to take frequent breaks throughout the day to stretch and rest their bodies, as well as to give their eyes a break from digital screens. By providing these resources and allowing their employees the opportunity to take care of their bodies, employers can help create a safe and effective workplace environment.

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Job Description

Design and develop ergonomically sound workplace environments
Analyze existing workplace environments to identify potential hazards
Recommend changes to enhance safety and comfort
Conduct ergonomic assessments of equipment, tools, and workstations
Develop and implement ergonomic training programs
Monitor workspace design trends
Evaluate user productivity and comfort
Design and implement research studies to evaluate the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions
Analyze the impact of new technologies on the workplace
Consult with management and safety personnel to ensure compliance with ergonomic standards

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanical principles
Knowledge of ergonomics principles and standards
Ability to analyze work tasks and work environments
Knowledge of safety regulations and standards
Ability to identify and assess ergonomic risks
Ability to develop and implement ergonomic solutions
Ability to design and evaluate tools, equipment, and workstations
Ability to use computer programs for data analysis and report writing
Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with clients, employers, and stakeholders
Ability to conduct research and collect data
Knowledge of ergonomic testing methods
Knowledge of ergonomic furniture and accessories
Knowledge of occupational health and safety regulations
Ability to develop training materials for employees
Ability to maintain records and prepare reports

Ergonomists are experts in the field of workplace safety, and they play a critical role in making sure employees are safe and productive while at work. Their expertise is invaluable in the area of ergonomics, which is the science of designing the workplace to fit the users needs. Ergonomists must have an extensive knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics in order to identify potential risks and design effective solutions to improve safety and efficiency.

they must be able to analyze user behavior and recognize potential hazards. Furthermore, they must have excellent problem-solving skills in order to come up with innovative solutions to complex issues. In addition, they must also possess excellent communication skills in order to effectively collaborate with stakeholders and clients.

the most important skill for an ergonomist is the ability to think critically and identify potential issues before they become a problem.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in ergonomics?
How would you assess the ergonomic needs of an office setting?
What strategies do you use to reduce workplace injuries?
What type of equipment do you believe is necessary for an ergonomically sound workplace?
Describe your approach to ergonomic design.
How do you identify ergonomic hazards in the workplace?
How do you ensure that employees follow ergonomic guidelines?
What is your experience with using computer software to design ergonomic spaces?
How do you use ergonomics to improve worker productivity?
What methods do you use to measure the effectiveness of ergonomics in the workplace?

Common Tools in Industry

Ergonomic Keyboard. A keyboard designed to reduce discomfort and fatigue during use. (eg: Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard)
Ergonomic Chair. A chair designed to provide support and comfort while sitting. (eg: Herman Miller Aeron Chair)
Standing Desk. A desk designed to allow the user to stand while working. (eg: Varidesk Pro Plus 36)
Footrest. A footrest designed to help the user maintain proper posture and reduce fatigue. (eg: Fellowes Professional Series Footrest)
Wrist Rest. A rest designed to provide support and reduce strain on the wrists. (eg: Kensington Memory Foam Wrist Rest)
Monitor Arms. An arm designed to adjust the height, angle, and position of a computer monitor for optimal ergonomic use. (eg: Ergotron LX Dual Stacking Arm)
Document Holder. A holder designed to keep documents at eye level, reducing strain on the neck and shoulders. (eg: Fellowes Professional Series Document Holder)
Keyboard Tray. A tray designed to keep the keyboard at a comfortable working height while reducing strain on the shoulders and arms. (eg: Humanscale Keyboard Tray System)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Ergonomics (ASE)
Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES)
International Ergonomics Association (IEA)
International Occupational Ergonomics Association (IOEA)
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
Center for Ergonomics (CfErg)
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology (IEST)

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Common Important Terms

Ergonomics. The study of how people interact with their environment, including the design of products, systems, and tasks to improve safety and comfort.
Anthropometrics. The scientific study of human body measurements and proportions.
Biomechanics. The study of the mechanics of living things, including how muscles and joints interact to produce movement.
Workplace Design. The design of physical workspaces to reduce stress and improve efficiency and productivity.
Job Analysis. An evaluation of a job to identify the duties, skills, and knowledge required to perform the job effectively.
Human Factors. A field of study that combines psychology, engineering, and biomechanics to understand how people interact with their environment.
Occupational Health. The practice of promoting health and safety in the workplace.
Ergonomic Assessment. An evaluation of a workspace to identify potential risks and recommend changes to improve safety and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Ergonomist?

An Ergonomist is a professional who specializes in the design of systems, equipment and processes to maximize comfort, safety and efficiency in the workplace.

What qualifications do you need to be an Ergonomist?

To become an Ergonomist, you usually need to have a post-secondary degree in ergonomics, occupational health and safety or a related field. You may also need to complete a certification program in the field.

What types of tasks do Ergonomists do?

Ergonomists typically evaluate existing workplace conditions, analyze job tasks and develop solutions that improve safety, comfort, efficiency and productivity. They may also design and implement new systems for employees to use.

What employers hire Ergonomists?

Ergonomists typically work for government agencies, engineering firms and manufacturing companies. They may also work in universities or hospitals, consulting with organizations to help them create ergonomically sound workplaces.

How much do Ergonomists earn?

The median salary for an Ergonomist in the United States is $78,000 per year according to PayScale.com. Salaries can vary depending on experience and the industry.