How much does a Director Engineering make?
Directors of Engineering often earn a substantial salary. The average yearly salary for this role stands at $193,454. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry. Many Directors of Engineering see their earnings increase as they gain more experience and take on larger responsibilities.
The salary range for Directors of Engineering can be quite broad. At the lower end, some Directors earn around $90,500 per year. As experience grows, salaries can climb to over $299,000 annually. The highest earners in this field can make up to $320,000 or more each year. This wide range reflects the importance of the role and the value companies place on strong leadership in engineering.
What are the highest paying cities for a Director Engineering?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $259,806
In San Francisco, engineering leaders guide tech giants like Google and Salesforce. They focus on innovation and cutting-edge technology. The city offers a dynamic environment for growth.
Find Director Engineering jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $233,955
Seattle is home to tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft. Engineering directors here drive projects that shape the future. The city's tech-friendly culture supports professional development.
Find Director Engineering jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $230,590
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, offers many opportunities for engineering leaders. They work with companies like Intel and Cisco. The city thrives on innovation and tech advancements.
Find Director Engineering jobs in San Jose, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $223,403
San Diego has a growing tech scene with companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms. Engineering directors here balance innovation with quality. The city offers a strong quality of life.
Find Director Engineering jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $204,456
Boston is a hub for tech and biotech. Engineering leaders work with companies like IBM and Biogen. They focus on research and development. The city offers a rich history and culture.
Find Director Engineering jobs in Boston, MA
-
Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $196,884
Columbus has a diverse tech landscape with companies like Nationwide and Huntington Bank. Engineering directors here manage large teams. The city offers a lower cost of living and a growing tech scene.
Find Director Engineering jobs in Columbus, OH
-
Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $192,010
Phoenix is a growing tech hub with companies like Intel and GoDaddy. Engineering directors here lead innovative projects. The city offers a warm climate and a growing job market.
Find Director Engineering jobs in Phoenix, AZ
-
Austin, TX
Average Salary: $191,219
Austin is known for its vibrant tech scene with companies like Dell and Apple. Engineering directors here focus on innovation and growth. The city offers a lively culture and a strong job market.
Find Director Engineering jobs in Austin, TX
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $188,043
Denver has a thriving tech scene with companies like Lockheed Martin and Oracle. Engineering directors here manage large teams. The city offers a high quality of life and beautiful surroundings.
Find Director Engineering jobs in Denver, CO
-
Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $186,433
Charlotte is a growing tech hub with companies like Bank of America and IBM. Engineering directors here focus on innovation and efficiency. The city offers a strong job market and a welcoming community.
Find Director Engineering jobs in Charlotte, NC
What are the best companies a Director Engineering can work for?

-
Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $315,794
Wells Fargo offers Director Engineering roles with a focus on innovation and technology. The company operates in major cities across the United States and has a global presence. Directors work on large-scale projects to improve banking systems and customer experiences.
-
Skyworks Solutions
Average Salary: $250,778
Skyworks Solutions provides semiconductor products for mobile connectivity. Director Engineering roles here involve leading teams to develop cutting-edge technology. The company operates in various locations, including the United States, Europe, and Asia.
-
Liberty Mutual Insurance
Average Salary: $214,733
Liberty Mutual Insurance offers Director Engineering positions focused on enhancing digital solutions for insurance services. The company operates in multiple locations in the United States and internationally. Directors here work on improving customer service and operational efficiency.
-
CVS Health
Average Salary: $201,533
CVS Health provides Director Engineering roles that focus on healthcare technology. The company operates nationwide in the United States. Directors work on projects that improve patient care and streamline pharmacy operations.
-
The Hartford
Average Salary: $191,827
The Hartford offers Director Engineering positions that focus on insurance technology. The company operates in major cities across the United States. Directors here work on projects to enhance customer service and improve insurance processes.
-
Optum
Average Salary: $180,675
Optum provides Director Engineering roles focused on healthcare technology. The company operates in various locations in the United States. Directors work on projects to improve patient care and streamline healthcare services.
-
CBRE
Average Salary: $174,860
CBRE offers Director Engineering roles that focus on real estate technology. The company operates in major cities worldwide. Directors here work on projects to improve property management and real estate services.
-
Travelers
Average Salary: $172,191
Travelers offers Director Engineering positions focused on insurance technology. The company operates in major cities across the United States. Directors work on projects to enhance customer service and improve insurance processes.
-
S&P Global
Average Salary: $167,500
S&P Global provides Director Engineering roles that focus on financial technology. The company operates in major cities worldwide. Directors work on projects to improve data analytics and financial services.
-
Fidelity Investments
Average Salary: $164,145
Fidelity Investments offers Director Engineering positions focused on financial technology. The company operates in major cities across the United States and internationally. Directors work on projects to improve investment services and customer experiences.
How to earn more as a Director Engineering?
A Director of Engineering can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. These areas not only enhance their professional value but also open up opportunities for higher compensation. Building a strong network within the industry can lead to better job offers and salary negotiations. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help establish connections with other leaders and potential employers.
Another important factor is gaining experience in multiple areas of engineering. Directors with a broad skill set are more versatile and can handle a variety of projects. This versatility often translates into higher pay. Additionally, obtaining certifications in specialized engineering fields can make a Director more attractive to employers. Certifications demonstrate a commitment to professional development and can lead to higher-paying positions. Staying updated with the latest technologies and methodologies in engineering is also crucial. Directors who are knowledgeable about new tools and practices can drive innovation and efficiency in their teams, which can result in higher earnings.
Directors should also consider the size and type of the company they work for. Larger companies and those in high-demand industries often offer higher salaries. Negotiating a salary that reflects the Director's skills and experience is another way to earn more. Finally, taking on leadership roles in projects that have significant impact can lead to bonuses and other financial incentives.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Director of Engineering:
- Build a strong professional network.
- Gain experience in multiple engineering areas.
- Obtain relevant certifications.
- Stay updated with the latest technologies.
- Consider company size and industry type.



