How much does a Application Engineer make?
An Application Engineer plays a key role in developing and testing software applications. They work closely with product teams and end-users to ensure that software meets specific needs. This role often involves a mix of technical skills and problem-solving abilities. The average yearly salary for an Application Engineer is around $106,721. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the industry.
The salary range for Application Engineers can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $57,000 per year. The highest 10% can make over $200,000 annually. Most engineers fall between these two points. Factors like the company size, geographic location, and specific industry can influence these numbers. For example, tech companies often offer higher salaries compared to other sectors. Urban areas with a high cost of living also tend to pay more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Application Engineer?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $168,548
In San Francisco, tech innovation thrives. Companies like Apple and Google offer exciting opportunities. Engineers here work on cutting-edge projects.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $140,623
San Jose is a hub for tech giants. Working here means collaborating with top firms. Engineers enjoy a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $139,336
Miami's tech scene is growing. Companies like Carnival Corporation and Knight Foundation provide diverse projects. Engineers benefit from a vibrant and growing community.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $136,442
Seattle is known for its tech industry. Microsoft and Amazon are major employers. Engineers here work on impactful projects in a collaborative setting.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $130,101
Austin offers a unique blend of tech and culture. Companies like Dell and Apple provide exciting opportunities. Engineers enjoy a friendly atmosphere and innovative projects.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $128,184
Boston is rich in tech history. Working here means collaborating with firms like Harvard and MIT. Engineers enjoy a prestigious and dynamic environment.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $127,345
Riverside offers a growing tech scene. Companies like Amazon and Qualcomm provide diverse projects. Engineers benefit from a supportive and expanding community.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $122,628
Washington, DC, is a center for tech and government. Working here means collaborating with firms like Amazon and Google. Engineers enjoy a unique and impactful environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $120,617
San Diego offers a vibrant tech scene. Companies like Qualcomm and Illumina provide diverse projects. Engineers benefit from a supportive and innovative community.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $119,724
Atlanta is a tech hub with a growing scene. Companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines provide diverse opportunities. Engineers enjoy a dynamic and expanding environment.
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What are the best companies a Application Engineer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $198,177
Apple offers exciting opportunities for Application Engineers. They work on cutting-edge technology and software applications. Apple operates globally, with major offices in the USA, Europe, and Asia.
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NVIDIA
Average Salary: $182,316
NVIDIA provides a dynamic environment for Application Engineers. They focus on graphics processing and AI technologies. The company has offices in the USA, Europe, and Asia.
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Synopsys
Average Salary: $182,132
Synopsys is a leader in semiconductor design and verification. Application Engineers here work on software solutions for the tech industry. They have offices worldwide, including the USA, Europe, and Asia.
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Teradyne
Average Salary: $169,583
Teradyne specializes in test and measurement solutions. Application Engineers develop software for electronic testing. They operate globally, with offices in the USA, Europe, and Asia.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $159,121
Amazon offers diverse roles for Application Engineers. They work on various tech projects and software solutions. Amazon has offices worldwide, including the USA, Europe, and Asia.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $158,150
KPMG provides a range of opportunities for Application Engineers. They focus on software solutions for auditing and consulting. KPMG has offices globally, including the USA, Europe, and Asia.
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Cadence Design Systems
Average Salary: $156,760
Cadence Design Systems offers roles for Application Engineers in semiconductor design. They work on software for electronic design automation. They have offices worldwide, including the USA, Europe, and Asia.
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Navy Federal Credit Union
Average Salary: $155,474
Navy Federal Credit Union provides opportunities for Application Engineers in financial technology. They develop software for banking solutions. They operate primarily in the USA.
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Siemens
Average Salary: $151,810
Siemens offers roles for Application Engineers in industrial automation. They work on software for manufacturing and energy solutions. They have offices worldwide, including the USA, Europe, and Asia.
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Themis Insight
Average Salary: $149,269
Themis Insight provides opportunities for Application Engineers in legal technology. They develop software for legal case management. They operate primarily in the USA.
How to earn more as a Application Engineer?
Application Engineers can boost their earnings by focusing on several key areas. They should aim to enhance their skills and knowledge, which can lead to higher-paying positions. Networking with industry professionals opens up opportunities for better roles and salary increases. Seeking out roles in high-demand industries or regions can also lead to higher pay. Taking on leadership roles or specialized projects can provide additional income and career growth. Lastly, negotiating salary effectively during job offers can make a significant difference in earnings.
To maximize earnings, Application Engineers should consider the following factors:
- Skill Development: Continuously learning new technologies and improving existing skills can lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Networking: Building relationships with industry professionals can uncover better job opportunities and salary prospects.
- Industry and Location: Working in high-demand industries or areas can result in higher pay.
- Leadership and Specialization: Taking on leadership roles or specialized projects can lead to higher income and career advancement.
- Salary Negotiation: Effectively negotiating salary during job offers can significantly increase earnings.