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Salary

How much does a Consulting Engineer make?

The average salary for a Consulting Engineer is $171,412 per year in the US.

Consulting engineers work in a field that offers both challenge and reward. They provide expert advice to businesses and organizations on technical matters. This role can involve a variety of tasks and industries, from construction to manufacturing. The pay reflects the importance of their work and the skills they bring to the table. Consulting engineers can earn a good income, with the average yearly salary standing at $171,412. This figure highlights the value placed on their expertise.


The salary range for consulting engineers is quite broad. At the lower end, some professionals may start around $92,000 per year. As they gain more experience and expertise, their earnings can rise significantly. Engineers in the top 10% of earners can make over $265,000 annually. This wide range shows the potential for growth and the rewards of advancing in the field. Consulting engineers who build strong reputations and networks often see their salaries increase.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Consulting Engineer?

Consulting engineers can expect high salaries in major cities. Los Angeles offers the top average salary, followed closely by Chicago and St. Louis. Washington and Cleveland also provide competitive wages for this profession.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Consulting Engineer jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $177,053 and Cleveland, OH with the lowest at $97,364.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $177,053
    In Los Angeles, engineers in this field contribute to high-tech projects. They work on designs for the aerospace industry, alongside major firms like Aerojet Rocketdyne. Opportunities also exist in construction with companies such as AECOM.
    Find Consulting Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $166,992
    Chicago offers a rich environment for consulting engineers. Here, professionals collaborate on projects for top companies like Turner Construction. They often focus on infrastructure, working on significant projects for the city's development.
    Find Consulting Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL


  3. St. Louis, MO
    Average Salary: $151,773
    In St. Louis, consulting engineers play a key role in the region's revitalization. They work with companies such as Burns & McDonnell to improve infrastructure and support economic growth. This city values their expertise in engineering and project management.
    Find Consulting Engineer jobs in St. Louis, MO


  4. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $150,509
    Washington, DC, presents a dynamic setting for consulting engineers. They often engage in federal projects, working with firms like Parsons. Engineers in this area have a chance to impact national policy and infrastructure.
    Find Consulting Engineer jobs in Washington, DC


  5. Cleveland, OH
    Average Salary: $97,364
    In Cleveland, consulting engineers focus on industrial and manufacturing projects. They work with organizations like Hubbell to enhance operational efficiency. This city benefits from their skills in creating sustainable and innovative solutions.
    Find Consulting Engineer jobs in Cleveland, OH

What are the best companies a Consulting Engineer can work for?

Leading companies like NetApp and Northrop Grumman offer top salaries for Consulting Engineers. With average earnings of around $262,060 and $250,270, these firms provide strong financial rewards. World Wide Technology and Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) also rank highly, offering competitive pay packages in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Consulting Engineer jobs, highlighting NetApp with the highest at $262,060 and Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) with the lowest at $112,710.
  1. NetApp
    Average Salary: $262,060
    NetApp offers exciting opportunities for Consulting Engineers. They work on advanced data storage solutions. The company operates worldwide, with major offices in the US, Europe, and Asia.


  2. Northrop Grumman
    Average Salary: $250,270
    Northrop Grumman provides Consulting Engineers with chances to work on cutting-edge aerospace and defense projects. The company has offices across the US, and it is a global leader in its field.


  3. World Wide Technology
    Average Salary: $173,940
    World Wide Technology offers Consulting Engineers roles in IT and consulting services. They have offices in the US and Europe, helping businesses with their tech needs.


  4. Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH)
    Average Salary: $112,710
    SGH is known for its civil, structural, and transportation engineering services. Consulting Engineers here work on major infrastructure projects. The company operates in many cities across the US.

How to earn more as a Consulting Engineer?

Becoming a highly paid consulting engineer involves more than just technical skills. It requires strategic actions to elevate one’s expertise and marketability. This can lead to higher earning opportunities. These actions focus on enhancing skills, networking, and positioning oneself as an expert in the field.

Investing in continued education and certifications can significantly boost earning potential. Specializing in high-demand areas such as sustainable energy or cybersecurity can make a consulting engineer more valuable. Being certified in these areas can also lead to higher pay.

Networking plays a crucial role in expanding professional opportunities. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers online can open doors to new projects. Building a strong professional network can lead to higher-paying consulting jobs. Here are five factors that can help increase earnings:

  1. Specialize in high-demand areas
  2. Earn relevant certifications
  3. Attend industry conferences
  4. Join professional organizations
  5. Build a strong online presence

Currently 19 Consulting Engineer job openings, nationwide.

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

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