How much does a Development Engineer make?
A Development Engineer creates and tests products. They often work on new designs and improvements. The job pays well. The average yearly salary is around $117,815. This is a good income for many people.
The salary for this job can change based on experience and location. Some Development Engineers earn less, around $45,000 a year. Others earn much more, up to $224,500 a year. Most earn between $77,636 and $142,909 a year. This range shows how much skill and experience can affect pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Development Engineer?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $167,912
In San Jose, Silicon Valley's tech hub, engineers play a key role in developing cutting-edge tech solutions. Companies like Apple and Google provide excellent opportunities to work on impactful projects.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $159,433
San Diego offers a dynamic environment for tech innovation. Engineers here work with leaders like Qualcomm and Raytheon Technologies, focusing on diverse tech advancements.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $158,106
Rochester combines a thriving tech scene with a vibrant community. Engineers can find opportunities in healthcare technology with companies like Eastman Kodak and Bausch + Lomb.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $155,771
Seattle's tech landscape is vibrant and growing. Engineers here contribute to the success of giants like Amazon and Microsoft, working on innovative solutions every day.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $150,462
In the nation's capital, engineers collaborate with federal agencies and tech firms. They play a key role in developing tech that impacts national security and public services.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $148,541
Denver offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tech innovation. Engineers here work with companies like IBM and Lockheed Martin, driving progress in various sectors.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $147,967
Los Angeles provides a diverse range of opportunities in tech. Engineers here work with companies like Amazon and Google, contributing to entertainment and media tech.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $143,412
Phoenix is a growing tech hub, offering diverse opportunities. Engineers here work on innovative projects with companies like Intel and Honeywell.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $141,411
San Francisco's tech ecosystem is unmatched. Engineers here work with tech giants like Facebook and Salesforce, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $139,008
Fort Collins offers a blend of academic and corporate opportunities. Engineers here work on innovative solutions with companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace.
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What are the best companies a Development Engineer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $228,053
Apple Inc. is known for its innovative technology and offers exciting opportunities for Development Engineers. Based in Cupertino, California, Apple leads in tech innovation. They seek engineers who can develop cutting-edge software and hardware.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $199,580
CVS Health, a healthcare giant, provides many roles for Development Engineers. With headquarters in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, CVS Health values tech-savvy engineers. They focus on creating solutions that improve healthcare delivery.
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Intuitive (Intuitive Surgical)
Average Salary: $171,691
Intuitive Surgical, a leader in robotic-assisted surgery, seeks skilled Development Engineers. The company operates in Sunnyvale, California. Engineers here work on developing medical technology that enhances surgical procedures.
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Relativity Space
Average Salary: $169,891
Relativity Space, a company innovating in space technology, offers high salaries for Development Engineers. Located in Long Beach, California, they focus on developing affordable access to space. Engineers here play a crucial role in advancing space exploration.
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Intel Corporation
Average Salary: $167,374
Intel Corporation, a major player in computer hardware, provides lucrative positions for Development Engineers. Based in Santa Clara, California, Intel engineers work on creating the next generation of computer processors and technology.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $162,352
Amazon Web Services, a leader in cloud computing, offers many opportunities for Development Engineers. Located in Seattle, Washington, AWS engineers develop services that power businesses worldwide. They focus on creating scalable and reliable cloud solutions.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $152,395
Amazon, the global e-commerce giant, provides exciting roles for Development Engineers. With headquarters in Seattle, Washington, Amazon engineers work on projects that improve customer experience and operational efficiency.
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Woodward, Inc.
Average Salary: $138,222
Woodward, Inc., a company in automation and control systems, offers good salaries for Development Engineers. Based in Fort Collins, Colorado, Woodward engineers work on systems that improve efficiency in various industries.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $124,885
Northrop Grumman, a defense technology firm, provides roles for Development Engineers. Located in Falls Church, Virginia, Northrop Grumman engineers work on critical projects that enhance national security.
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Caterpillar
Average Salary: $124,498
Caterpillar, a global leader in heavy machinery, offers opportunities for Development Engineers. With headquarters in Deerfield, Illinois, Caterpillar engineers develop machinery that improves construction and mining operations.
How to earn more as a Development Engineer?
Development Engineers can earn more by focusing on a few key factors. Gaining specialized skills in high-demand areas such as software development or automation can open doors to higher-paying positions. Keeping up with the latest technologies and trends ensures a competitive edge in the job market. Networking with industry professionals and attending relevant conferences can lead to new opportunities and higher salary negotiations.
Another factor is advancing through continuous education and certifications. Many employers value additional qualifications, which can lead to promotions and higher pay. Seeking out roles in high-cost areas or industries known for higher compensation can also boost earnings. Additionally, negotiating salary effectively and understanding the value of benefits beyond just the base salary can make a significant difference in overall compensation.
Consider these key strategies to increase earning potential:
- Gain specialized skills in high-demand areas.
- Stay updated with the latest technologies and trends.
- Network with industry professionals and attend conferences.
- Pursue continuous education and relevant certifications.
- Negotiate salary and understand the full value of benefits.



