Human factors specialist

Typical tasks

• Design environments that improve people’s wellbeing
• Study how people interact with systems
• Design, develop and test ergonomic equipment
• Inspect sites and facilities
• Make systems, equipment and places user friendly
• Develop research and testing methods
• Collect and analyse data
• Give health and safety advice

Outlook

Human factors specialists are increasingly used to make systems, technology and workplaces safer, easier and more effective for people. In New Zealand, this is relevant in areas such as health, transport, aviation, construction, manufacturing and workplace safety. Growth in automation, digital services and AI is increasing attention on human-centred design, decision-making and fatigue. The field is specialised, but its ideas are becoming more widely used internationally.

What employers and industry want in graduates

• Systems thinking: seeing how people, tools and processes interact
• Strong observation, research and problem-solving skills
• Ability to analyse risk and safety information
• Clear communication with technical and non-technical people
• Understanding of user-centred design and usability
• Careful, ethical approach to improving safety and wellbeing