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Highest Paying Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

... the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $8.1 ... Generate plumbing specifications that are clear and concise, paying special attention to cost and ...

... highest quality care. Today, 30% of total U.S. healthcare spending is wasted due to ineffective ... Our models enables payers to make faster, more accurate decisions across their populations. By ...

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

... the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $8.1 ... Generate plumbing specifications that are clear and concise, paying special attention to cost and ...

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

... the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $8.1 ... Generate plumbing specifications that are clear and concise, paying special attention to cost and ...

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

... the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $8.1 ... Generate plumbing specifications that are clear and concise, paying special attention to cost and ...

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

... the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $8.1 ... Generate plumbing specifications that are clear and concise, paying special attention to cost and ...

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

... the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $8.1 ... Generate plumbing specifications that are clear and concise, paying special attention to cost and ...

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Lenexa, KS

$97K - $133K/yr

... the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $8.1 ... Generate plumbing specifications that are clear and concise, paying special attention to cost and ...

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Highest Paying Engineer information

See salary details

$35.5K

$96.1K

$168K

How much do highest paying engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for highest paying engineer in the United States is $96,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

While most civil engineers earn less than $200,000 annually, some senior-level or specialized civil engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles can reach or exceed $500,000, especially in high-demand industries or regions with high living costs. Achieving this level often requires advanced skills, project management expertise, and working in lucrative sectors such as infrastructure, consulting, or large-scale construction projects.

What are the highest paying engineering jobs?

The highest paying engineering jobs typically include positions such as petroleum engineer, computer hardware engineer, aerospace engineer, nuclear engineer, and software engineer. These roles often require specialized skills and advanced degrees, and they are in industries that offer competitive salaries to attract top talent. Factors such as experience, education, industry, and location can significantly impact earning potential. In addition, engineering managers and directors with leadership responsibilities also tend to be among the top earners in the field.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Engineering roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain senior software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or specialized technical expertise in high-demand industries.

What types of projects and industries do the highest paying engineers typically work in?

Engineers in the highest paying roles often work in specialized industries such as petroleum, computer hardware, aerospace, and software development. These professionals are frequently involved in large-scale, complex projects that require advanced technical expertise and problem-solving skills. Project work may include designing new technologies, improving existing systems, or leading multidisciplinary teams. Collaboration with other engineers, scientists, and business leaders is common, and a focus on innovation and efficiency is essential for career advancement in these high-paying sectors.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Engineers such as petroleum, aerospace, and computer hardware engineers often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, or in senior roles. High-paying positions typically require specialized skills, certifications, and work in industries like energy, aerospace, or technology sectors.

What type of engineer is the highest paid?

Petroleum engineers are typically the highest-paid engineering professionals, often earning high salaries due to the complexity of oil and gas extraction and the specialized skills required. Other high-paying engineering fields include computer hardware engineers, aerospace engineers, and systems engineers, especially those with advanced certifications and experience in high-demand industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a highest paying engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a highest paying engineer—often in roles like petroleum engineering, software engineering, or aerospace engineering—you need strong analytical abilities, advanced mathematics, and a relevant engineering degree, frequently supported by a master's or doctoral qualification. Familiarity with industry-specific software (such as CAD tools, MATLAB, or advanced programming languages) and professional certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills distinguish top performers in these high-stakes environments. These competencies ensure engineers can lead complex projects, drive innovation, and deliver critical solutions that command the highest compensation levels.
More about Highest Paying Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Highest Paying Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Highest Paying Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Highest Paying Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Highest Paying Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Highest Paying Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,107 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

$98K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

The Opportunity

PAE is seeking a high-level Senior Lead Electrical Engineer in our Reno, NV office to drive technical excellence and discipline management across our most complex projects. In this dual-capacity role, you will act as both a technical authority and a strategic team leader, responsible for the end-to-end delivery of electrical systems. You will be instrumental in shaping project workplans, mentoring staff, and maintaining the highest standards in Power Distribution, Lighting, and System Analysis. This position is designed for a seasoned professional who can balance rigorous engineering judgment with the ability to inspire a team and cultivate lasting client relationships.


Who We Are 

PAE is an engineering and design firm that turns complex challenges into reality. By leveraging the latest technologies, we solve problems in unique ways, and our designs enable buildings and communities to be more resilient and efficient. PAE is trusted by our clients in every aspect of a project's lifespan, from idea to occupancy. We set ambitious goals backed by analysis to significantly conserve water and energy while balancing costs and long-term operational needs. As a B Corp, we measure success by the benefits our projects provide to our clients, our communities, and our planet. We embrace innovation, transparency, sustainability, and lifelong curiosity.


What You'll Do

  • Project team leadership and discipline management, responsible for completing the project on time within budget
  • Responsible for the preparation of deliverable documents including narratives, calculations, drawings and specifications
  • Attend client meetings, lead the coordination effort between external and internal project teams
  • Independently evaluate and apply engineering judgment, techniques, and procedures to complete a project from concepts through construction
  • Proficient in electrical system distribution, lighting and power system design
  • Assemble effective project teams  
  • Develop project workplans, tasks and assignments for the team
  • Thorough understanding of interdisciplinary coordination 
  • Advanced understanding of the application of building codes and electrical industry standards
  • Oversee engineering calculations and equipment selection
  • Perform site visits and issues reports
  • Provide training, guidance and mentorship for staff
  • Provide updates to master specifications and standards, and improve company processes
  • Engineering application of distribution Load Flow, Short Circuit and Arc Flash Energy analysis using Easy Power
  • Develop client relationships
  • Oversee the application of the project quality management plan (QMP)
  • Perform other duties as assigned 
     

What You Bring

  • Attention to detail and advanced organizational skills
  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Revit/AutoCAD and Easy Power
  • Inspire and motivate staff
  • Serve as a technical resource for the company 
  • Advanced understanding of electrical engineering concepts, able to effectively communicate design options
  • Able to assemble and run a team
  • Strong delegation skills
  • Attention to detail and advanced organizational skills
  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Revit/AutoCAD and Easy Power

What We Offer 

  • Hiring Base Salary Range: $98,100-$121,200 annual 
    • This position is eligible for time and a half overtime pay

The base salary is one component of PAE’s competitive compensation package for employees. We take into consideration a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, abilities, experience, education, credentials, internal equity and geographic location in determining exact salary offered. At PAE, employees are eligible for annual compensation reviews based on performance and business needs. The above range represents PAE's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. 

In addition, PAE offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following: 

  • Employer paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision) 
  • Annual 401k profit sharing based on company profit for the year and account contribution 
  • Professional development reimbursements including state registration and professional association dues 
  • Employer paid commuter/parking stipend
  • Cell phone stipend 
  • Life insurance and disability benefits 
  • Hybrid work schedule 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • 9 paid holidays including an additional employee-selected day
  • Paid time off for sick leave, family leave, community service, holidays and vacation
  • To learn more about our comprehensive benefits package, visit https://www.pae-engineers.com/careers/benefits. This information is provided per the Equal Pay Act

Our commitment to pay equity 

PAE is a JUST label certified company; we demonstrate JUST label requirements within pay equity. Pay scales should meet or exceed applicable legislated wage requirements and industry standards and compensate, on the same basis, all individuals performing the same or similar work and work of equal value. We are committed to the principle of pay equity – paying employees equitably for substantially similar work. To learn more about pay equity and our commitments to equitable business practices, you may view our JUST label certification here: Living Future: Just Label Certification. 

To find out more visit our website.


What We’re Made Of 

Founded in 1967, PAE is a leading sustainable engineering and consulting firm on a mission to deliver clean air, energy, and water for all. We specialize in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, building performance analysis, technology design, and lighting design (LUMA). PAE designs some of the nation's highest-performing and most regenerative built environments across the U.S., from Living Buildings to all-electric buildings and beyond. Learn more at pae-engineers.com.

Our portfolio includes over 100 LEED Platinum projects as well as dozens of projects that have either achieved or are pursuing the Living Building Challenge, Passive House, Architecture 2030, Carbon Neutral, Net Zero Energy, and Net Zero Water. 


Fine Print 

Please note that resumes received from third party recruiters or agencies will not be accepted unless requested directly by PAE Talent Acquisition and with a prior signed fee agreement. If candidates without a previously signed recruiter fee agreement are submitted, PAE reserves the right to engage with and hire those candidate(s) without any obligation financial or otherwise to the recruiter or agency.

In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at PAE will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. PAE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (sex), national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical characteristics historically associated with race, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. 

PAE will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship. This policy governs all aspects of employment including: selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination and access to benefits and training. 

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