Ergonomist

Education Requirements

Minimum Needed

Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology, Physiology, Sports Science, Industrial Engineering, Psychology, or related subject.

Some Employers Prefer

Master's Degree in Human Factors Engineering, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, or related subject.

Career Pathway Advice

Before Graduation

• Gain Work Experiences. (e.g., Co-op Education, Internships, Work Integrated Learning).
• Be Curious. Ask questions about the work environment and day-to-day tasks of a job. This includes reaching out to professionals in the field, faculty, counsellors/advisors, neighbours and friends.
• Develop Power Skills. (e.g., oral and written communication, teamwork & leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation & creativity, and engaging diversity).
• Know Your Transferable Skills. Understand how the skills you are learning in your program meet or transfer to the requirements of your intended job.
• Develop Digital Literacy. Be able to find, communicate, create, and edit files online (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe).
• Be Grade Point Average (GPA) Aware. Know the minimum grade point average needed for admission to your desired graduate or professional program (if applicable).
• Pursue Mentorship and Network Opportunities. (e.g., information interviews, developing relationships with someone working in the field, joining professional organizations, job shadowing, or volunteering).
• Prepare Your Job Search Documents. (e.g., LinkedIn profile, CV/Resume, cover letter, and portfolio).
• Practice your Interview Skills. Research common interview questions employers use, develop short stories you can use to demonstrate your skills and experience, and seek help from a career centre, family, or friends to do mock interviews.

After Graduation

• Seek mentorship from co-workers and supervisors.
• Participate in ongoing learning and professional development.
• Build network relationships with other industry professionals.
• Keep your job search documents updated.
• Research the training opportunities offered by your employer.
• Build your brand by using social media, LinkedIn, and through professional memberships or associations.

 Spotlight Requirement

• Certification through the Canadian College for the Certification of Professional Ergonomists (CCCPE) is normally needed.

Expert Advice

• In Canada the use of the term "Ergonomist" is not regulated. This means that anyone regardless of education or competency can refer to themselves as an ergonomist.
• For this reason to protect employers and the public the voluntary professional Certified Canadian Professional Ergonomist (CCPE) designation is highly valued. The designation shows that you have the education and skills needed for ergonomics & human factors employment.
• CCPE certification requires an undergraduate degree, university credit courses at outlined in the CCPE application kit, and at least four years of work experience, with one of these years being mentored.

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