Production engineering deals with the design and planning of manufacturing system associated with any manufacturing organization. The field of production engineering has turned out to be highly complex with the emergence of sophisticated production methods and control systems. It equips the students with necessary skills required for designing internal structures and also troubleshooting during times of breakdowns. In addition to this, the students become competent enough to develop strategies that will increase the productivity and thus increases the turnover of the company. Another advantage of this course is that it will equip the students with the required managerial skills in addition to the technical skills.

Role of production engineers in pharma industry

Production engineers in the pharmaceutical industry are engaged in the conception, design, construction, and the operation of research facilities and manufacturing facilities. These facilities are used for the purpose of research of drugs, their production and their facilities to standards set by regulating authorities. In addition this they are also responsible for quality of the products. They are also in charge of scheduling production, maintaining the machines and equipments in good condition.

There are large numbers of opportunities for those who have completed the course in production engineering in the pharmaceutical industry both inside India and abroad. Opportunities exist in both research and manufacturing facilities.

The candidate should be knowledgeable in the following areas:

• Product development
• Supply chain management
• Production systems
• Quality systems
• Facilities and equipment
• Regulatory compliance

The candidate should have the following skills:

• Leadership skills
• Innovation
• Professionalism
• Focus on quality and continuous improvement
• Integration
• Risk taking

Qualification required to become a Production Engineer

In order to pursue a bachelor course in production engineering, the candidates must have passed 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics as subjects of study. The minimum marks in the 12th grade required by most of the institutions are 50 per cent. The candidate should also attend entrance examinations conducted by competent bodies for admitting students for various engineering courses. The bachelor course for production engineering is for a period of four years. After completing the bachelor course, students can go for Masters in Technology. This will open up opportunities for students to become qualified teacher in the field of production engineering.

Attractive remuneration

Once employed with multinational companies, production engineers can earn a handsome pay starting form Rs. 4 lakhs per annum and the pay increases if the candidate has experience in the pharmaceutical field.