How much does a Design Engineer make?
Design engineers play a key role in creating products that are both functional and appealing. They work on projects that range from consumer electronics to medical devices. The average yearly salary for a design engineer is around $110,325. This salary can vary based on experience, skills, and the industry they work in.
The salary for design engineers can increase with more experience. Entry-level positions may start around $55,850. As engineers gain more experience, they can move up to a mid-level salary of about $87,777. Senior design engineers, with many years of experience, can earn upwards of $183,559. This shows that there is a good potential for growth in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Design Engineer?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $166,269
In San Diego, Design Engineers work in a vibrant tech scene. Companies like Qualcomm and General Atomics offer exciting projects. The city's mild climate makes for a pleasant work environment.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $165,183
San Jose is a hub for tech innovation. Design Engineers here collaborate with giants like Intel and Apple. The city offers a dynamic atmosphere for creative problem-solving.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $146,378
Austin boasts a growing tech industry. Design Engineers find opportunities with companies like Dell and IBM. The city's lively culture enhances the work experience.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $145,890
San Francisco is a center for tech giants. Design Engineers here work with companies like Google and Salesforce. The city's diverse environment fosters innovation.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $138,200
Fort Collins offers a mix of tech and outdoor activities. Design Engineers work with companies like Lockheed Martin. The city's scenic beauty makes for a refreshing work environment.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $135,338
Salt Lake City has a growing tech sector. Design Engineers find roles with companies like Zions Bank. The city's outdoor activities provide a great work-life balance.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $133,955
Savannah offers a slower pace with a growing tech industry. Design Engineers work with companies like Gulfstream. The city's historic charm adds to the unique work experience.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $130,552
Albuquerque has a vibrant tech scene. Design Engineers work with companies like Sandia National Laboratories. The city's unique culture enhances the work environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $127,499
Seattle is a tech powerhouse. Design Engineers work with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. The city's progressive environment fosters innovation.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $126,514
Los Angeles offers a diverse tech scene. Design Engineers work with companies like Northrop Grumman. The city's entertainment industry adds to the dynamic work environment.
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What are the best companies a Design Engineer can work for?

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Arm
Average Salary: $229,727
Arm offers exciting opportunities for Design Engineers. They work on developing cutting-edge technology. Their offices are in the UK, the US, and other locations worldwide.
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Cadence Design Systems
Average Salary: $201,000
Cadence Design Systems provides Design Engineers with a chance to innovate. They focus on electronic design automation. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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Apple
Average Salary: $200,110
Apple is a top choice for Design Engineers. They work on creating amazing products. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $197,767
Microsoft offers Design Engineers a chance to work on innovative projects. They focus on software and hardware. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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AMD
Average Salary: $186,925
AMD provides Design Engineers with opportunities to develop new technologies. They work on computer processors. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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Ampere Computing
Average Salary: $185,620
Ampere Computing offers Design Engineers a chance to innovate. They focus on high-performance computing. Their offices are in the US and Europe.
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Micron Technology, Inc.
Average Salary: $183,250
Micron Technology, Inc. provides Design Engineers with opportunities to work on memory and storage solutions. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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Qualcomm
Average Salary: $182,554
Qualcomm offers Design Engineers a chance to innovate in wireless technology. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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NVIDIA
Average Salary: $174,629
NVIDIA provides Design Engineers with opportunities to work on graphics and AI. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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Acara Solutions
Average Salary: $167,975
Acara Solutions offers Design Engineers a chance to work on innovative projects. They focus on software and hardware. Their offices are in the US and Europe.
How to earn more as a Design Engineer?
Design Engineers have many ways to increase their earnings. They can focus on gaining more experience, learning new skills, and improving their current job performance. By doing so, they can become more valuable to their employers and open up opportunities for higher pay. Networking with other professionals in the field can also lead to better job offers and salary increases. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help Design Engineers stay updated on the latest trends and technologies, making them more competitive in the job market.
Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as a Design Engineer:
- Gain More Experience: Working on a variety of projects can help Design Engineers build a strong portfolio. This can make them more attractive to potential employers.
- Learn New Skills: Staying up-to-date with the latest software and technologies can make a Design Engineer more efficient and effective. This can lead to higher productivity and better job performance.
- Improve Job Performance: Taking on additional responsibilities and delivering high-quality work can help Design Engineers stand out. This can lead to promotions and salary increases.
- Network with Professionals: Building relationships with other Design Engineers and industry professionals can lead to job opportunities and salary increases. Attending conferences and joining organizations can help with this.
- Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Keeping up with the latest trends and technologies can make a Design Engineer more competitive. This can lead to better job offers and higher pay.