How much does a Design Engineer make?
A Design Engineer creates and improves products and systems. They work on everything from small parts to entire machines. This job is very important in many industries, like automotive, aerospace, and electronics. The average yearly salary for a Design Engineer is around $110,182. This means that, on average, a Design Engineer earns a good living.
The salary for Design Engineers can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level engineers might start around $56,000 per year. As they gain experience, their salary can go up. Experienced engineers can earn over $200,000 per year. Some factors that can affect salary include the industry, the size of the company, and the location of the job. For example, engineers in tech-heavy cities like San Francisco or Seattle often earn more than those in other areas.
What are the highest paying cities for a Design Engineer?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $167,448
In San Diego, Design Engineers work in a vibrant tech scene. Companies like Qualcomm and General Atomics offer exciting opportunities. The city's mild climate makes for a pleasant work environment.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $167,095
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, provides Design Engineers with numerous job opportunities. Tech giants like Intel and Apple are prominent employers. The city's dynamic atmosphere is ideal for innovation.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $149,501
San Francisco offers a bustling environment for Design Engineers. Companies such as Salesforce and Uber create a competitive yet collaborative workplace. The city's rich culture enhances the professional experience.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $147,430
Austin, known for its tech growth, is a great place for Design Engineers. Firms like Dell and IBM provide diverse projects. The city's lively music scene and outdoor activities make it an attractive place to live.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $136,571
Fort Collins offers a balanced lifestyle for Design Engineers. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace provide solid career opportunities. The city's proximity to outdoor activities is a big plus.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $135,338
Salt Lake City provides a growing market for Design Engineers. Companies like Zions Bank and Vivint offer promising career paths. The city's beautiful mountains and outdoor lifestyle are a big draw.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $131,699
Savannah offers a unique setting for Design Engineers. Companies like Gulfstream and Savannah Technical College provide various opportunities. The city's historic charm and coastal location add to the appeal.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $131,677
Albuquerque offers a mix of tech and industry for Design Engineers. Firms like Sandia National Labs and Intel provide diverse projects. The city's vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities make it a great place to live.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $127,594
Seattle is a tech hub for Design Engineers. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft offer exciting career opportunities. The city's progressive culture and natural beauty enhance the professional experience.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $125,659
Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of tech and government for Design Engineers. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman provide diverse projects. The city's rich history and cultural events add to the appeal.
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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 cutting-edge technology and have offices in many locations, including the UK, the US, and Asia. Their projects often involve developing new chips and improving existing ones.
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Apple
Average Salary: $202,589
Apple is a top choice for Design Engineers. They focus on creating innovative products and have offices worldwide. Engineers here work on projects that shape the future of technology, from iPhones to Mac computers.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $198,183
Microsoft provides a dynamic environment for Design Engineers. They work on a wide range of projects, from operating systems to cloud services. With offices in many countries, Microsoft offers diverse opportunities for growth and innovation.
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Micron Technology, Inc.
Average Salary: $194,103
Micron Technology, Inc. is known for its focus on memory and storage solutions. Design Engineers here work on developing new technologies that improve data storage. The company has locations in the US, Asia, and Europe.
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Ampere Computing
Average Salary: $185,620
Ampere Computing offers exciting roles for Design Engineers. They work on high-performance computing solutions. The company operates in several locations, including the US and Europe, providing a global perspective on technology development.
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Qualcomm
Average Salary: $184,984
Qualcomm is a leader in wireless technology. Design Engineers here work on developing new communication solutions. With offices in many countries, Qualcomm offers a chance to work on projects that impact the future of connectivity.
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AMD
Average Salary: $183,881
AMD provides a challenging environment for Design Engineers. They focus on creating powerful processors and graphics solutions. The company has locations in the US, Europe, and Asia, offering diverse opportunities for innovation.
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Acara Solutions
Average Salary: $166,355
Acara Solutions offers a unique opportunity for Design Engineers. They work on developing advanced technology solutions for various industries. The company has offices in the US and Europe, providing a chance to work on diverse projects.
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NVIDIA
Average Salary: $165,797
NVIDIA is known for its work in graphics and AI. Design Engineers here work on projects that push the boundaries of technology. With offices in many countries, NVIDIA offers a global platform for innovation.
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Broadcom
Average Salary: $160,275
Broadcom offers exciting roles for Design Engineers. They focus on developing semiconductor solutions. The company has locations in the US, Europe, and Asia, providing a chance to work on projects that shape the future of technology.
How to earn more as a Design Engineer?
Design Engineers have many ways to increase their earnings. They can focus on gaining experience, improving skills, and expanding their network. Each of these areas can help a Design Engineer earn more. Making smart choices can lead to higher pay and more job opportunities.
Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as a Design Engineer:
- Gain Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Working on a variety of projects can help build a strong portfolio. This shows potential employers the skills and knowledge a Design Engineer has.
- Improve Skills: Learning new software and technologies can make a Design Engineer more valuable. Keeping up with industry trends helps stay competitive. Certifications in specialized areas can also lead to higher pay.
- Network: Building relationships with other professionals can open up new job opportunities. Attending industry events and joining professional groups can help. Networking can lead to higher-paying positions and insider tips on job openings.
- Seek Advanced Degrees: Earning a master’s degree or a Ph.D. can lead to higher-paying jobs. Advanced degrees show a commitment to the field and can qualify a Design Engineer for more senior roles.
- Work in High-Demand Areas: Some areas of engineering have higher demand and pay more. Specializing in these areas can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.