How much does a Development Engineer make?
A Development Engineer can expect to earn a rewarding salary. On average, they make about $118,812 each year. This number can vary based on experience, location, and the industry.
Here are some key points about their earnings:
- The lowest-earning 10% make around $45,142.
- The highest-earning 10% make about $225,000.
- Most Development Engineers earn between $77,844 and $143,246.
Development Engineers often work in technology and manufacturing. They design, test, and improve products. Their work can lead to good salaries and job satisfaction. If you are interested in this field, consider your skills and how they match with different salary levels.
What are the highest paying cities for a Development Engineer?

-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $166,936
In San Jose, an engineer thrives in a tech-driven hub. Companies like Intel and Cisco offer exciting opportunities. The fast-paced environment suits those who love innovation.
Find Development Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $158,547
San Diego provides a balanced work-life atmosphere. Qualcomm and Raytheon are prominent employers. The city’s mild climate makes commuting pleasant.
Find Development Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $154,483
Seattle's tech scene is booming, with Microsoft and Amazon leading the way. Engineers here enjoy a vibrant culture and outdoor activities. The city’s pace keeps projects dynamic.
Find Development Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $153,085
Los Angeles offers a unique blend of urban and entertainment. Engineers here work with companies like SpaceX and Boeing. The city’s diverse culture enriches the workplace.
Find Development Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $150,462
DC is a hub for tech and government. Companies like Raytheon and Lockheed Martin provide stability. The city’s rich history adds a unique backdrop to the job.
Find Development Engineer jobs in Washington, DC
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $148,793
Denver offers a lower cost of living with great job prospects. Companies like Boeing and Hubbell are top employers. The outdoors offer perfect relaxation after work.
Find Development Engineer jobs in Denver, CO
-
Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $142,113
Phoenix provides a warm climate and growing tech opportunities. Companies like Intel and Honeywell are key players. The city’s expansion makes it an exciting place to work.
Find Development Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $140,659
San Francisco’s tech scene is legendary. Companies like Apple and Salesforce are abundant. The city’s culture and high cost of living require a balanced approach.
Find Development Engineer jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $139,008
Fort Collins offers a smaller city feel with big company presence. Lockheed Martin and Intel provide solid opportunities. The outdoors and community vibe are great perks.
Find Development Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO
-
Austin, TX
Average Salary: $137,269
Austin is known for its live music and tech jobs. Companies like Dell and Oracle thrive here. The city’s culture and warm climate make it an attractive place to work.
Find Development Engineer jobs in Austin, TX
What are the best companies a Development Engineer can work for?

-
Google
Average Salary: $256,233
Google offers Development Engineer positions in many tech fields. They operate globally, with major offices in the USA, Europe, and Asia. Here, Development Engineers work on cutting-edge projects, often using the latest tech and tools.
-
Apple
Average Salary: $219,675
At Apple, Development Engineers create and improve the hardware and software that make Apple devices special. Apple has offices in the USA, Europe, and Asia. Engineers here focus on making products that work seamlessly together.
-
CVS Health
Average Salary: $195,256
CVS Health provides healthcare services and products. Development Engineers here work on software and systems to support these services. The company operates across the USA. They aim to improve healthcare delivery with technology.
-
Relativity Space
Average Salary: $177,027
Relativity Space designs and builds rockets. Development Engineers play a key role in developing the technology behind these rockets. The company operates in the USA. Engineers here work on pushing the limits of what is possible in space.
-
Intel Corporation
Average Salary: $164,737
Intel Corporation creates chips and other tech for computers and devices. Development Engineers work on improving these products. The company operates worldwide. Engineers focus on making faster, more efficient chips.
-
Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $162,352
AWS offers cloud computing services. Development Engineers here work on tools and services that help businesses use the cloud. AWS operates globally. Engineers focus on making cloud services reliable and easy to use.
-
Amazon.com
Average Salary: $153,032
Amazon is a global e-commerce giant. Development Engineers help build the technology that supports Amazon’s services. The company operates worldwide. Engineers work on improving the shopping experience for customers.
-
Woodward, Inc.
Average Salary: $138,222
Woodward, Inc. makes control systems for various industries. Development Engineers work on these systems, improving how they operate. The company operates globally. Engineers focus on making reliable, efficient systems.
-
Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $129,498
Northrop Grumman focuses on aerospace and defense. Development Engineers work on systems for aircraft, ships, and other defense projects. The company operates globally. Engineers focus on creating secure, advanced technology.
-
Kimberly-Clark
Average Salary: $124,840
Kimberly-Clark makes personal care products like Kleenex and Huggies. Development Engineers work on improving these products. The company operates worldwide. Engineers focus on making better, more effective products for consumers.
How to earn more as a Development Engineer?
Development Engineers can boost their earnings by focusing on key areas that enhance their skills and marketability. By leveraging these strategies, they can position themselves for higher compensation packages and career advancement opportunities. Prioritizing continuous learning and practical experience often leads to better job prospects and higher salaries.
Here are some factors that can help a Development Engineer earn more:
- Education and Certification: Obtaining higher degrees or specialized certifications can increase earning potential. Advanced degrees like a Master's or Ph.D. and certifications in relevant technologies show dedication and expertise.
- Experience: Gaining more experience in the field often leads to higher salaries. Working on diverse projects and accumulating a broad skill set makes a candidate more valuable.
- Skills Development: Learning new programming languages, tools, and technologies keeps a Development Engineer competitive. Staying updated with industry trends ensures relevance and higher earning potential.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to better job opportunities and salary negotiations. Engaging with peers and attending industry events can open doors to higher-paying positions.
- Job Market Research: Understanding the current job market and salary trends helps in setting realistic expectations and negotiating effectively. Knowing what similar roles pay helps in aiming for a competitive salary.



