We all aspire to find fulfilling and well-compensated work. However, it's not always clear which career paths lead to high salaries. If you're considering a career in engineering, you may be wondering: Which engineering jobs pay over $100k per year?
This is an essential question for anyone exploring engineering. As the cost of higher education continues to skyrocket, choosing a lucrative engineering specialization is key to paying off student debt and earning a comfortable living.
This article will highlight six engineering occupations that command $100,000+ average salaries. We'll overview what each role entails and the education needed to enter the field.
With this information, you can make an informed decision about which high-paying engineering career to pursue.
How a $100k+ Engineering Salary Can Improve Your Life
Landing an engineering job with a $100,000+ salary goes a long way towards achieving financial freedom. You'll have more than enough income to cover necessities and still have money left over for savings, vacations, hobbies, and other lifestyle goals.
Some of the key benefits include:
● Paying off student loan debt faster
● Affording your own comfortable home
● Saving & investing more money each month
● Providing for your family without money stress
● Increased flexibility to change jobs if needed
Now, look at six lucrative engineering careers that can make this high-earning lifestyle possible.
6 Engineering Jobs That Pay Over $100,000
While some engineers earn moderate salaries, certain engineering specialities are known for paying over $100k per year. We compiled information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to spotlight these high-income jobs.
The compensation estimates include base annual salary, commissions, tips, bonuses, overtime pay, and profit sharing.
Let's explore these jobs in detail one by one!
1.Petroleum Engineering
Petroleum engineers design methods for extracting oil and gas from beneath the earth in the safest, most efficient, and cost-effective way possible.
Median Annual Salary: $137,330
Highest 10% of Petroleum Engineers Earn: Over $208k
Education Needed: Bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering
2.Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineers apply physics, math, and chemistry principles to solve problems involving the transformation of matter and energy. They work across various industries, including biotechnology, food production, materials manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.
Median Annual Salary: $108,770
Highest 10% Earn: Over $187k
Education: Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering
3.Nuclear Engineering
Nuclear engineers research and develop methods for utilizing atomic energy and radiation. They create solutions ranging from improving power generation to advancing medical imaging technologies.
Median Annual Salary: $116,020
Highest 10% Earn: Over $177k
Education Needed: Bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering
4.Computer Hardware Engineering
Computer hardware engineers research, design, and test computer equipment such as wireless routers, circuit boards, processors, memory devices, and computer systems.
Their work powers innovation for consumer electronics, networking infrastructure, healthcare devices, automotive and more.
Median Annual Salary: $117,220
Highest 10% Earn: Over $172k
Education: Bachelor's degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering
5.Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace engineers design and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, missiles, and systems for national defence. They draw on their expertise in thermodynamics, aerodynamics, instrumentation, propulsion, and materials science.
Beyond defence, aerospace engineers work on green aviation and space exploration projects.
Median Annual Salary: $118,610
Highest 10% Earn: Over $178k
Education Needed: Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering
6.Architectural Engineering
Architectural engineers blend engineering principles with construction and building design knowledge. They plan and manage projects ranging from bridges to airports to office buildings.
Median Annual Salary: $103,310
Highest 10% Earn: Over $152k
Education Needed: Bachelor's degree in architectural engineering
Take Steps to Start a $100k+ Engineering Career Now.
If being a highly compensated engineer appeals to you, take action now to make it happen:
● Research engineering concentrations to decide which field intrigues you most
● Speak to engineering professors and industry mentors
● Secure scholarships, apply for FAFSA aid, work during school - finance your engineering degree smartly
● Maintain a high GPA to access competitive co-op & job opportunities
● Build relevant engineering experience each summer
● Practice for technical interviews to showcase your problem-solving skills
Committing to an engineering education is challenging. But the financial freedom and career fulfilment you gain in these lucrative roles make the effort incredibly worthwhile.
Evaluate your options carefully, then take decisive steps to launch your $100k+ engineering career!
