Have you ever wondered how much engineers earn or how their salaries vary based on their specific field or location? This article aims to answer these questions and provide a comprehensive overview of engineering salaries.
Engineering Salaries
Engineering is a diverse field with many different career paths, and salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and specialization. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for all engineers was $79,050 as of May 2019.
Specialization
Engineering salaries can vary greatly depending on the specific field or specialization. Below are some examples of median annual salaries for various engineering jobs based on data from the BLS:
- Aerospace engineer: $116,500
- Chemical engineer: $108,770
- Civil engineer: $87,060
- Computer hardware engineer: $117,220
- Electrical engineer: $98,530
- Mechanical engineer: $88,430
It's important to note that these figures represent median salaries, which means that half of all engineers in a particular field earn more than this amount and half earn less. Salaries can also vary greatly based on experience and location.
Experience
Experience is another key factor that can influence engineering salaries. As engineers gain experience and expertise in their field, they may become eligible for higher-paying roles and promotions. According to PayScale, the following are median salaries for engineers based on years of experience:
Years of Experience | Median Salary |
---|---|
0-1 years | $64,000 |
1-4 years | $72,000 |
5-9 years | $86,000 |
10-19 years | $100,000 |
20+ years | $111,000 |
Location
Salaries for engineers can also vary based on location. According to the BLS, the states with the highest median annual salaries for all engineers as of May 2019 were:
- Alaska: $110,600
- Texas: $105,250
- California: $105,030
- Colorado: $102,860
- New Mexico: $101,800
It's important to note that while engineers in certain states may earn higher salaries on average, the cost of living in these states may also be higher. It's important to take into account factors such as housing costs and transportation expenses when considering engineering salaries in different locations.
Conclusion
Overall, engineering is a field with high earning potential, particularly for those with specialized skills and experience. Salaries can vary widely depending on the specific field, experience level, and location. It's important for engineers to do their research and consider all of these factors when negotiating salaries or considering new job opportunities.