ENGINEERING SALARY

Many engineering specialties show excellent job growth, and engineering is also an industry where earnings are high.

engineering salary

Even if you don't plan to pursue a 4-year degree, you can still earn a competitive engineering salary.

For the vast majority of engineering technician jobs, regardless of specialty, a 2-year associate's degree in engineering technology is sufficient.

Engineering Technology Salaries

Using the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2021 Occupational Outlook Handbook as a reference, here are average annual salary figures for different engineering technology specialties:

Engineering Technology SpecialtyMedian Annual Salary
Aerospace Engineer$122,270
Biomedical Engineer$97,410
Chemical Engineer$105,550
Civil Engineer$88,050
Environmental Engineer $96,820
Computer Hardware Engineer $128,170
Electrical/Electronic Engineer$100,420
Industrial Engineer$95,300
Mechanical Engineer$95,300
Nuclear Engineer$120,380
Petroleum Engineer$130,850

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2021 Occupational Employment Statistics

The salary information listed is based on a national average, unless noted. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors. National long-term projections of employment growth may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth.

A Few More Facts About Salaries

A handy chart doesn't tell the whole story when it comes to engineering salaries. There are a number of other factors that affect your earnings:

  • Industry: whether you work for the federal government, state government or the private sector can have an effect on your engineering salary. 
     
  • Location: your earnings may be greater if you live in an area with a higher cost of living. 
     
  • Certification: besides a mandatory Professional Engineer (PE) license, there are a number of optional certifications in specialty areas that may increase your earning potential and managerial prospects.