Project Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Project Engineer make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Project Engineer is $98,334 per year in San Diego, CA.

A Project Engineer in San Diego, CA, earns a competitive salary. The average salary for this role is around $98,334 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, skills, and the specific industry. Many professionals in this field find that their earnings increase with more years of experience and additional certifications.

The salary range for Project Engineers in San Diego typically spans from about $48,500 to $166,500. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while seasoned engineers with specialized skills can earn towards the higher end. This range reflects the diverse opportunities available in the city's dynamic job market. Factors such as company size, project complexity, and economic conditions also influence salary levels. Job seekers can expect to see growth in their earnings as they advance in their careers.

Project Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Project Engineer near San Diego, CA?

Job seekers looking for Project Engineer roles near San Diego, CA, can find high salaries in nearby cities. Poway, CA, offers the highest average salary of $124,910. Santee, CA, and Lakeside, CA, also provide competitive pay, with averages of $83,611 and $82,053, respectively. These cities present excellent opportunities for those seeking rewarding positions in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Project Engineer jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Poway, CA with the highest at $124,910 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $70,494.
  1. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $124,910
    In Poway, California, professionals thrive in a community that values innovation and quality. With companies like Qualcomm and various tech startups, there are ample opportunities for growth. The area's strong economy and supportive business environment make it ideal for those seeking to advance their careers.
    Find Project Engineer jobs in Poway, CA


  2. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $83,611
    Santee offers a dynamic work environment for those in the engineering field. The city is home to several large corporations, including Sharp HealthCare and various manufacturing firms. Working here means being part of a community that values skilled professionals and offers a balanced lifestyle.
    Find Project Engineer jobs in Santee, CA


  3. Lakeside, CA
    Average Salary: $82,053
    Lakeside provides a vibrant setting for engineering careers. The city's diverse industries, including healthcare and technology, offer numerous opportunities. Professionals here enjoy a strong sense of community and access to top-tier companies, making it a great place to build a career.
    Find Project Engineer jobs in Lakeside, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $80,361
    Chula Vista is a hub for engineering talent, with a mix of large corporations and innovative startups. The city's strategic location and growing economy create a fertile ground for career development. Working here means being part of a forward-thinking community that values skilled professionals.
    Find Project Engineer jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $70,494
    El Cajon offers a supportive environment for engineering professionals. The city is home to several major companies, including Sharp HealthCare and various manufacturing firms. Working here means being part of a community that values skilled professionals and offers a balanced lifestyle.
    Find Project Engineer jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Project Engineer in San Diego, CA?

Qualcomm offers the highest salary for Project Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA, with an average of $263,617. Lockheed Martin and L3Harris follow closely, offering average salaries of $158,950 and $146,300, respectively. These companies provide competitive compensation packages, making them attractive options for job seekers in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Project Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Qualcomm with the highest at $263,617 and Electrical Consultants, Inc. with the lowest at $118,500.
  1. Qualcomm
    Average Salary: $263,617
    Qualcomm offers exciting Project Engineer roles in San Diego, CA. They focus on wireless technology and innovation. Qualcomm operates globally, with major offices in the U.S. and Asia.


  2. Lockheed Martin
    Average Salary: $158,950
    Lockheed Martin provides Project Engineer positions in San Diego, CA. They work on advanced technology and defense systems. This company has a strong presence worldwide, with offices in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.


  3. L3Harris
    Average Salary: $146,300
    L3Harris offers Project Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA. They focus on aerospace and defense technology. They have offices across the U.S. and in several international locations.


  4. Innoflight, Inc.
    Average Salary: $140,000
    Innoflight, Inc. provides Project Engineer roles in San Diego, CA. They specialize in aviation and aerospace solutions. They operate primarily in the U.S. with a focus on the West Coast.


  5. TekTree Inc.
    Average Salary: $136,667
    TekTree Inc. offers Project Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA. They work on technology and software solutions. Their operations are mainly in the U.S., with a strong presence in California.


  6. Parsons
    Average Salary: $134,450
    Parsons provides Project Engineer positions in San Diego, CA. They focus on infrastructure and defense projects. Parsons has offices across the U.S. and internationally.


  7. HNTB Corporation
    Average Salary: $128,937
    HNTB Corporation offers Project Engineer roles in San Diego, CA. They work on architecture and engineering projects. They have offices throughout the U.S. and in several international locations.


  8. General Atomics
    Average Salary: $128,578
    General Atomics provides Project Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA. They focus on aerospace and defense technology. They operate primarily in the U.S. with a strong presence in California.


  9. Shimmick Construction
    Average Salary: $125,417
    Shimmick Construction offers Project Engineer roles in San Diego, CA. They work on construction and infrastructure projects. They operate mainly in California with a focus on San Diego.


  10. Electrical Consultants, Inc.
    Average Salary: $118,500
    Electrical Consultants, Inc. provides Project Engineer positions in San Diego, CA. They focus on electrical engineering and consulting. They operate mainly in California with a strong presence in San Diego.

Currently 2,489 Project Engineer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Project Engineer in the US?

Learn what a Project Engineer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Project Engineer today.
Position
Overview
Project Engineer
2,489 Job Openings