How much does a Development Engineer make?
Development engineers earn an average yearly salary of $120,138. This salary can vary based on experience, skills, and location. For example, someone just starting might make less than $45,330, while a more experienced engineer could earn over $225,000 a year.
A few key points about these salaries:
- The lowest 10% of earners make less than $45,330.
- The highest 10% make more than $225,181.
- The median salary is about $94,380, which is a good middle ground for most engineers.
What are the highest paying cities for a Development Engineer?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $167,321
San Jose offers many opportunities for engineering careers. Tech giants like Intel and Apple hire engineers here. The city's vibrant tech scene makes it an exciting place to work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $157,129
In San Diego, engineers find a mix of tech and biotech companies. Qualcomm and Illumina are prominent employers. The mild weather and beautiful beaches add to the quality of life.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $153,393
Washington, DC, is a hub for government and defense contracts. Engineers here work on critical projects for national security. Companies like Lockheed Martin offer stable careers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $152,666
Seattle is known for its tech industry. Microsoft and Amazon create many job opportunities for engineers. The city's culture and natural beauty make it a desirable place to live and work.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $151,738
Los Angeles offers a diverse range of engineering jobs. Companies like Boeing and Raytheon provide various roles. The city's entertainment industry also offers unique engineering opportunities.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $149,438
Denver has a growing tech scene with companies like Charles Schwab hiring engineers. The city’s outdoor lifestyle and lower cost of living are big pluses.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $142,126
San Francisco is a tech wonderland. Companies like Google and Salesforce offer many engineering positions. The city's dynamic culture and beautiful bay area add to its appeal.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $139,008
Fort Collins provides a mix of tech and outdoor engineering jobs. Companies like Lockheed Martin have a strong presence. The city's beautiful surroundings and active lifestyle attract many professionals.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $136,303
Phoenix offers a mix of aerospace and tech engineering jobs. Companies like Boeing and Intel provide many opportunities. The city's warm climate and growing economy make it attractive for engineers.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $135,010
Austin is known for its tech boom. Companies like Dell and Tesla offer many engineering roles. The city's live music scene and vibrant culture make it a fun place to work.
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What are the best companies a Development Engineer can work for?

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Google
Average Salary: $248,400
Google offers Development Engineer roles with a focus on creating cutting-edge technology. Google operates worldwide, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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Apple
Average Salary: $215,842
Apple hires Development Engineers to work on its innovative products. This tech giant has locations in the United States, Europe, and Asia, providing a global career opportunity.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $191,241
CVS Health seeks Development Engineers to enhance its healthcare technology. With locations across the United States, this company provides a stable and rewarding career path.
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Relativity Space
Average Salary: $180,025
Relativity Space offers Development Engineer roles focused on aerospace technology. This company operates primarily in the United States, providing a unique chance to work in a growing industry.
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Intuitive (Intuitive Surgical)
Average Salary: $171,145
Intuitive Surgical hires Development Engineers to advance medical technology. The company has a strong presence in the United States, Europe, and Asia, offering international opportunities.
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Intel Corporation
Average Salary: $165,009
Intel Corporation seeks Development Engineers to contribute to its semiconductor innovations. With locations worldwide, Intel offers a dynamic and impactful career.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $162,458
Amazon Web Services offers Development Engineer roles focused on cloud computing. The company has a global reach, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $155,111
Amazon provides Development Engineer positions that drive its technology forward. The company operates globally, offering a diverse and exciting career opportunity.
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Woodward, Inc.
Average Salary: $140,803
Woodward, Inc. hires Development Engineers to work on advanced control systems. With a presence in the United States, Europe, and Asia, Woodward offers a broad range of opportunities.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $128,789
Northrop Grumman seeks Development Engineers for its defense and aerospace projects. The company has offices across the United States and internationally, providing a secure and challenging career path.
How to earn more as a Development Engineer?
Development Engineers have many opportunities to increase their earnings. Focus on these key areas to boost your salary. Each of these factors plays a significant role in advancing your career and financial success.
First, gaining more experience will lead to higher pay. Seek out projects that offer new challenges and skills. Each experience will make you more valuable to employers. Second, getting additional certifications can also increase earnings. Certifications show your expertise and dedication to the field. Third, networking with other professionals opens up job opportunities. Attend industry events and join professional organizations.
Additionally, enhancing technical skills can improve earning potential. Stay updated with the latest technologies and tools. Finally, negotiating your salary well can make a big difference. Research industry standards and prepare to discuss your value confidently.
Below are five factors that can help Development Engineers earn more:
- Gain more experience
- Get additional certifications
- Network with other professionals
- Enhance technical skills
- Negotiate salary effectively



