Chief Engineer Salaries

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $147,914
   In San Francisco, engineering leaders manage tech giants like Google and Salesforce. They focus on innovative projects and cutting-edge technology. The city offers a dynamic environment for growth and collaboration.
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2. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $141,571
   San Jose is home to many Silicon Valley companies. Engineers here work on groundbreaking projects. The tech-centric culture provides many opportunities for professional development.
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3. Colorado Springs, CO
   Average Salary: $135,084
   Colorado Springs offers a mix of aerospace and defense opportunities. Engineers lead projects for companies like Lockheed Martin. The city's focus on technology creates a strong demand for skilled professionals.
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4. Huntsville, AL
   Average Salary: $134,477
   In Huntsville, engineers play a key role in the aerospace industry. They work for companies like NASA and various defense contractors. The city values innovation and offers a supportive community for tech growth.
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5. Springfield, MA
   Average Salary: $132,615
   Springfield has a diverse engineering landscape with opportunities in healthcare and technology. Engineers lead projects for companies like MassMutual and Smith & Wesson. The city provides a balanced environment for career advancement.
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6. Boulder, CO
   Average Salary: $125,820
   Boulder offers a mix of tech startups and research institutions. Engineers here work on sustainable projects and cutting-edge technology. The city's vibrant community supports professional growth and innovation.
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7. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $123,057
   San Diego is a hub for biotech and defense engineering. Engineers lead projects for companies like Qualcomm and various military contractors. The city's mild climate and quality of life make it an attractive place to work.
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8. Sacramento, CA
   Average Salary: $114,042
   In Sacramento, engineers work on infrastructure and technology projects. They lead initiatives for state agencies and tech companies. The city offers a stable environment with opportunities for public service and innovation.
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9. Richmond, VA
   Average Salary: $111,786
   Richmond offers a mix of government and private sector engineering opportunities. Engineers lead projects for companies like Lockheed Martin and state agencies. The city provides a strong community and a focus on public service.
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10. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $110,808
    Los Angeles is a center for entertainment and technology. Engineers lead projects for companies like Disney and tech startups. The city offers a vibrant environment with diverse opportunities for career growth.
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1. Kennedy/Jenks Consultants
   Average Salary: $260,000
   Kennedy/Jenks Consultants offers Chief Engineer roles with a focus on providing engineering consulting services. They operate in various locations, including Washington, D.C., and New York City. Their projects often involve infrastructure, environmental, and transportation engineering.
   

   
   

2. Northrop Grumman
   Average Salary: $221,947
   Northrop Grumman is a global aerospace and defense technology company. They offer Chief Engineer positions with a focus on innovation and technology development. Locations include Falls Church, Virginia, and El Segundo, California. Their roles often involve working on defense systems and space technology.
   

   
   

3. Raytheon
   Average Salary: $219,595
   Raytheon is a technology and defense company. They offer Chief Engineer roles with a focus on defense and intelligence systems. Locations include Waltham, Massachusetts, and Tucson, Arizona. Their projects often involve missile systems, radar, and cybersecurity.
   

   
   

4. BAE Systems USA
   Average Salary: $196,911
   BAE Systems USA is a leading defense and aerospace company. They offer Chief Engineer positions with a focus on advanced technology and systems integration. Locations include Arlington, Virginia, and San Diego, California. Their roles often involve working on military aircraft, naval systems, and land vehicles.
   

   
   

5. Collins Aerospace
   Average Salary: $193,429
   Collins Aerospace is a global aerospace and defense company. They offer Chief Engineer roles with a focus on avionics and cabin systems. Locations include Charlotte, North Carolina, and Indianapolis, Indiana. Their projects often involve aircraft interior systems and avionics technology.
   

   
   

6. SAIC
   Average Salary: $190,442
   SAIC is a leading technology integrator. They offer Chief Engineer positions with a focus on defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Locations include Reston, Virginia, and San Diego, California. Their roles often involve working on national security, healthcare, and information technology solutions.
   

   
   

7. Leidos
   Average Salary: $186,074
   Leidos is a global technology, engineering, and science solutions company. They offer Chief Engineer roles with a focus on national security and health. Locations include Reston, Virginia, and San Antonio, Texas. Their projects often involve defense systems, cybersecurity, and healthcare technology.
   

   
   

8. Boeing
   Average Salary: $184,966
   Boeing is a leading aerospace and defense company. They offer Chief Engineer positions with a focus on commercial and military aircraft. Locations include Seattle, Washington, and St. Louis, Missouri. Their roles often involve working on aircraft design, manufacturing, and aerospace systems.
   

   
   

9. Eaton
   Average Salary: $172,445
   Eaton is a leading power management company. They offer Chief Engineer roles with a focus on electrical and power systems. Locations include Cleveland, Ohio, and Dublin, Ireland. Their projects often involve designing and manufacturing power distribution systems, electrical components, and automation systems.
   

   
   

10. System One
    Average Salary: $163,000
    System One is a leading provider of engineering and technical services. They offer Chief Engineer positions with a focus on infrastructure and environmental projects. Locations include Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, California. Their roles often involve working on transportation, water resources, and environmental engineering projects.
    

A Chief Engineer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. One important factor is gaining advanced certifications. These credentials can demonstrate expertise and dedication to the field. Another factor is taking on leadership roles that involve managing large projects or teams. This experience can lead to higher-paying positions. Networking with other professionals in the industry also opens up opportunities for higher-paying jobs. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help with this.

Specializing in high-demand areas can also lead to higher earnings. For example, expertise in renewable energy or cybersecurity often commands higher salaries. Finally, seeking promotions and negotiating salary increases can make a significant difference. Continuously improving skills and staying updated with industry trends ensures long-term financial growth.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Chief Engineer:

1. Gain advanced certifications
2. Take on leadership roles
3. Network with industry professionals
4. Specialize in high-demand areas
5. Seek promotions and negotiate salary increases