Chief Engineer Salaries

A Chief Engineer plays a key role in a company, often leading teams and projects. This position typically offers a rewarding salary. On average, a Chief Engineer earns around $87,575 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, industry, and location.

The salary range for Chief Engineers can be quite broad. At the lower end, some earn around $38,000 annually. As experience grows, salaries can climb significantly. The highest earners in this role can make over $200,000 per year. This wide range reflects the diverse responsibilities and impact of the Chief Engineer position.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $141,353
   In San Francisco, leading engineering teams means working with tech giants like Google and Salesforce. The city's innovative spirit drives projects that shape the future of technology.
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2. Colorado Springs, CO
   Average Salary: $131,211
   Colorado Springs offers a unique blend of military and tech industries. Engineers here often work on cutting-edge defense and aerospace projects, contributing to national security.
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3. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $130,213
   San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley, home to many tech companies. Leading engineering teams here means being part of a dynamic environment that fosters innovation and growth.
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4. Huntsville, AL
   Average Salary: $125,400
   Huntsville is known as the 'Rocket City' due to its aerospace industry. Engineers here play a key role in developing technologies that advance space exploration and defense.
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5. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $122,836
   San Diego offers a mix of military and tech opportunities. Engineers work on projects for companies like Qualcomm and defense contractors, contributing to both civilian and military tech advancements.
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6. Boulder, CO
   Average Salary: $120,614
   Boulder combines a vibrant community with a strong focus on research and technology. Engineers here often work in a collaborative environment, tackling challenges in renewable energy and software development.
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7. Albuquerque, NM
   Average Salary: $109,098
   Albuquerque is a hub for aerospace and defense engineering. Engineers here work on projects for companies like Lockheed Martin, contributing to national defense and space exploration.
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8. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $108,784
   Los Angeles offers diverse engineering opportunities, from tech startups to entertainment technology. Engineers here work on projects that blend innovation with creativity.
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9. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $108,474
   Seattle is a tech powerhouse, home to companies like Amazon and Microsoft. Engineers here drive projects that shape the future of cloud computing and software development.
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10. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $107,320
    Sacramento offers a mix of government and tech opportunities. Engineers here work on projects that impact the state's infrastructure and technology initiatives.
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1. Kennedy/Jenks Consultants
   Average Salary: $260,000
   Kennedy/Jenks Consultants offers Chief Engineer jobs with a focus on providing engineering consulting services. They operate in various locations, including the United States and internationally. Their Chief Engineers lead projects and teams, ensuring high-quality outcomes.
   

   
   

2. Raytheon
   Average Salary: $221,932
   Raytheon is a leading defense technology company. They offer Chief Engineer positions that involve advanced technology development. Raytheon operates in many locations worldwide, including the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.
   

   
   

3. Northrop Grumman
   Average Salary: $217,707
   Northrop Grumman provides innovative aerospace and defense technologies. Chief Engineers here lead critical projects and teams. The company operates in various locations, including the United States and internationally.
   

   
   

4. Boeing
   Average Salary: $199,319
   Boeing is a global aerospace leader. They offer Chief Engineer roles that focus on aircraft design and development. Boeing operates in many locations, including the United States, Europe, and Asia.
   

   
   

5. BAE Systems
   Average Salary: $197,726
   BAE Systems is a leading defense and aerospace company. They offer Chief Engineer positions that involve advanced technology and systems development. The company operates in various locations, including the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.
   

   
   

6. BAE Systems USA
   Average Salary: $197,084
   BAE Systems USA is a key player in defense and aerospace. They offer Chief Engineer roles that focus on innovative solutions. The company operates in many locations, including the United States and internationally.
   

   
   

7. Collins Aerospace
   Average Salary: $194,680
   Collins Aerospace is a leading aerospace and defense company. They offer Chief Engineer positions that involve advanced technology and systems development. The company operates in various locations, including the United States, Europe, and Asia.
   

   
   

8. SAIC
   Average Salary: $186,429
   SAIC provides engineering and technology solutions. They offer Chief Engineer roles that focus on innovative projects. The company operates in many locations, including the United States and internationally.
   

   
   

9. Leidos
   Average Salary: $185,042
   Leidos offers engineering and technology services. They offer Chief Engineer positions that involve leading critical projects. The company operates in various locations, including the United States and internationally.
   

   
   

10. Eaton
    Average Salary: $171,104
    Eaton provides power management solutions. They offer Chief Engineer roles that focus on innovative technology development. The company operates in many locations, including the United States and internationally.
    

A Chief Engineer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. One important factor is gaining experience in different industries. This broadens a Chief Engineer's skill set and makes them more valuable. Another key factor is obtaining advanced certifications. These credentials show a commitment to the field and can lead to higher-paying positions. Networking with other professionals also helps. Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities that offer higher salaries.

Specializing in high-demand areas can also boost earnings. For example, expertise in renewable energy or cybersecurity often comes with higher pay. Finally, taking on leadership roles can increase income. Leading projects and teams can lead to higher-paying positions. Here are the top five factors to consider:

• Gain experience in different industries
• Obtain advanced certifications
• Network with other professionals
• Specialize in high-demand areas
• Take on leadership roles