How much does a Director Engineering make?
A Director of Engineering often earns a very good salary. The average yearly salary for this role is around $204,571. This means that a Director of Engineering can expect to make quite a bit of money. The salary can vary based on a few factors. For example, experience, location, and the company can all play a role in determining the exact salary.
Here are some details about the salary distribution for Directors of Engineering. The data shows that salaries can range quite a bit. The lowest salary in this data is about $104,800. The highest salary goes up to $319,900. Most Directors of Engineering fall somewhere in the middle. The middle 50% of salaries range from about $163,464 to $241,682. This means that many Directors earn between these two amounts each year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Director Engineering?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $267,055
San Francisco offers a thriving tech scene with many startups and established companies. Engineers here enjoy innovative projects and a competitive environment. Tech giants like Google and Salesforce make it a sought-after place for engineering leaders.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $248,869
Seattle is known for its tech industry and vibrant culture. It provides a perfect blend of work and leisure. Companies like Microsoft and Amazon offer excellent opportunities for engineering leaders to make an impact.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $231,246
San Diego combines beautiful weather with a growing tech hub. Engineering leaders here work on cutting-edge projects in a relaxed atmosphere. Qualcomm and biotech firms create a dynamic work environment.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $221,434
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley. It offers numerous opportunities for engineering leaders to innovate and lead. Companies such as Intel and Cisco drive the tech industry forward.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $210,073
Boston boasts a rich history and a strong tech presence. Engineering leaders here work on impactful projects with a mix of tradition and innovation. Companies like IBM and Cognizant offer diverse roles.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $200,249
Atlanta is a growing tech hub with a diverse job market. Engineering leaders benefit from a supportive community and a range of industries. Delta Air Lines and tech startups provide exciting opportunities.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $198,512
Chicago offers a vibrant mix of industries and a strong engineering community. Engineering leaders find a balance between business and tech. Companies like Boeing and tech firms offer diverse projects.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $198,334
Columbus provides a welcoming atmosphere for tech professionals. Engineering leaders here enjoy a blend of innovation and community. Companies like Nationwide and tech firms create a supportive environment.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $194,779
Minneapolis is known for its friendly people and strong tech sector. Engineering leaders enjoy a high quality of life and a supportive work environment. Companies like Target and tech startups offer various opportunities.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $193,217
Charlotte offers a growing tech scene and a strong financial industry. Engineering leaders find a mix of opportunities in both tech and finance. Companies like Bank of America and tech firms create a dynamic work environment.
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What are the best companies a Director Engineering can work for?

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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $315,794
Wells Fargo offers rewarding Director Engineering roles with locations across the US. These positions involve leading teams in creating financial technologies and ensuring they meet industry standards. Wells Fargo operates in major financial hubs nationwide.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $268,779
Northrop Grumman is a top choice for Director Engineering positions, with a focus on aerospace and defense technologies. Candidates lead large teams in innovation and research. The company has offices in Virginia, California, and other key locations.
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Skyworks Solutions
Average Salary: $252,655
Skyworks Solutions leads in semiconductor solutions and offers high-paying Director Engineering jobs. These roles manage product development from concept to market. The company has major operations in Massachusetts, California, and Ireland.
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Liberty Mutual Insurance
Average Salary: $214,733
Liberty Mutual Insurance provides lucrative Director Engineering jobs focusing on tech solutions for insurance services. These roles involve leading tech teams to develop better customer experiences. The company operates in Massachusetts and other US states.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $200,104
CVS Health offers Director Engineering roles centered around healthcare technology. These roles manage projects that improve patient care and service efficiency. CVS operates nationwide with major hubs in Rhode Island and Texas.
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The Hartford
Average Salary: $189,164
The Hartford provides Director Engineering positions focusing on insurance technology solutions. These roles lead tech teams to innovate and improve insurance services. The company operates in Connecticut and other US locations.
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Optum
Average Salary: $180,654
Optum offers Director Engineering roles in health tech solutions. These positions manage teams that develop innovative health services. Optum operates across the US with significant operations in Minnesota and California.
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Fidelity Investments
Average Salary: $175,612
Fidelity Investments provides Director Engineering roles focused on financial technology. These roles lead teams to innovate in online trading platforms. The company has major operations in Massachusetts and Nebraska.
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CBRE
Average Salary: $174,825
CBRE offers Director Engineering roles in commercial real estate technology. These positions involve leading tech teams to develop innovative real estate solutions. CBRE operates worldwide with a strong presence in California and New York.
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Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
Average Salary: $158,315
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority offers Director Engineering roles in public transit technology. These roles manage teams developing better public transport solutions. The company operates in Los Angeles, California.
How to earn more as a Director Engineering?
Directors of Engineering have a key role in leading tech teams and driving innovation. This position often comes with a substantial salary, but there are ways to increase earnings. Understanding key factors can help maximize earning potential. Focus on these important elements to boost salary and career satisfaction.
First, gaining experience in multiple industries can help a Director of Engineering command higher pay. Diverse experience shows a wide skill set and adaptability. Second, holding advanced degrees like a Master’s or Ph.D. can lead to higher-paying roles. Education shows dedication and deep knowledge. Third, earning certifications in specialized areas can enhance earning potential. Certifications demonstrate specific skills and up-to-date knowledge.
Fourth, taking on leadership roles in large companies or high-growth startups can lead to higher salaries. These positions often offer more responsibility and better pay. Lastly, networking with other professionals can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Connections can lead to job offers with better compensation packages.
Directors of Engineering can increase their earnings by gaining diverse industry experience, pursuing advanced education, earning relevant certifications, seeking leadership roles, and networking with industry professionals. These steps can lead to higher salaries and more fulfilling careers.
Consider these factors to maximize earning potential in this rewarding field.
- Gain diverse industry experience.
- Pursue advanced degrees and certifications.
- Seek leadership roles in large companies or startups.
- Network with other professionals in the industry.



