Ergonomist

An ergonomist is a professional who studies human capabilities and limitations to optimize the interaction between people, their tools, and their environments. They apply principles of ergonomics and human factors to design, evaluate, and modify products, systems, and workplaces to improve safety, comfort, performance, and well-being.

Common activities include conducting ergonomic assessments of workstations and processes, analyzing task requirements with anthropometry and biomechanics, selecting and positioning equipment, planning lighting, acoustics, and environmental conditions, and advising on product design and software interfaces. Ergonomists perform risk assessments to reduce musculoskeletal hazards, recommend controls, conduct usability testing, and prepare training materials. They may employ methods such as REBA, RULA, the NIOSH lifting equation, and cognitive task analyses.

Education and credentials vary by country but typically include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in ergonomics, human factors, industrial engineering, kinesiology, or a related field. Certification is common for professional recognition, with examples including the Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) designation offered by the Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics (BCPE) in North America. Ongoing professional development is standard.

Work settings span manufacturing, offices, healthcare, software and product development, transportation, and government or military organizations. Ergonomists collaborate with safety, human resources, product design, occupational health, and operations teams to reduce injury risk, improve efficiency, and support user-centered design.