How much does a Product Development Engineer make?
Product Development Engineers play a key role in creating new products and improving existing ones. Their salary reflects the importance of their work. According to recent data, the average yearly salary for a Product Development Engineer is $107,752. This number can change based on many factors.
The salary range for Product Development Engineers can be wide. At the lower end, some may earn around $40,000 per year. At the higher end, salaries can reach up to $244,000. Many factors influence these numbers. This includes experience, location, and the specific industry. Engineers who work in tech hubs often earn more than those in other areas. Experienced engineers also tend to make more than those just starting out. Companies in fast-growing industries may offer higher salaries to attract top talent.
What are the highest paying cities for a Product Development Engineer?

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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $174,995
In Dallas, an engineering role combines innovation with growth. Companies like Texas Instruments and AT&T lead the tech scene. Engineers benefit from a thriving economy and diverse projects.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $167,115
Working in San Francisco offers cutting-edge tech opportunities. Google and Apple are prominent employers. Engineers enjoy a vibrant culture and access to top resources.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $161,594
Phoenix provides a warm climate and growing tech sector. Companies like Intel and Honeywell offer diverse roles. Engineers find a mix of innovation and stability.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $140,432
Detroit's automotive roots offer unique engineering challenges. Companies like General Motors and Ford provide innovative projects. Engineers contribute to global advancements in transportation.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $138,619
St. Louis has a balanced mix of industry and innovation. Boeing and Emerson Electric provide diverse opportunities. Engineers enjoy a supportive community and rich history of engineering.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $138,170
Atlanta offers a mix of corporate and startup environments. Companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines provide dynamic projects. Engineers benefit from a growing tech scene and quality of life.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $132,150
Austin's tech hub provides a vibrant atmosphere for engineers. Companies like Dell and Apple thrive here. Engineers enjoy innovative projects and a lively community.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $131,965
Boston offers rich history and modern tech opportunities. Companies like Raytheon and Bose provide innovative roles. Engineers benefit from academic partnerships and a strong economy.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $129,900
Columbus offers a blend of industry and technology. Companies like Nationwide and American Electric Power provide diverse projects. Engineers enjoy a supportive environment and access to resources.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $127,356
Portland provides a unique mix of nature and innovation. Companies like Intel and Nike offer diverse roles. Engineers enjoy a vibrant culture and sustainable projects.
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What are the best companies a Product Development Engineer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $210,812
Apple is known for its innovative products and tech solutions. Product Development Engineers at Apple work in cities like Cupertino, Seattle, and Austin. They design and test new hardware and software, collaborating with teams to improve Apple's products.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $182,169
Kaiser Permanente is a leading health care provider. Product Development Engineers here focus on creating health technology solutions. They work in locations such as Oakland, Denver, and Atlanta, playing a key role in improving patient care through innovative products.
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PwC
Average Salary: $164,787
PwC is a global professional services firm. Product Development Engineers at PwC develop software and tools to aid in business solutions. They operate in various cities like New York, London, and Sydney, helping clients with digital transformation.
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Citi
Average Salary: $146,282
Citi is a major global bank. Product Development Engineers at Citi create financial technology solutions. They work in cities such as New York, London, and Hong Kong, focusing on enhancing customer experience with innovative financial products.
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KLA-Tencor
Average Salary: $133,984
KLA-Tencor provides equipment and services for semiconductor manufacturing. Product Development Engineers here develop advanced technology for the semiconductor industry. They operate in cities like Milpitas, San Jose, and Portland, working on cutting-edge projects.
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3M
Average Salary: $128,858
3M is a multinational conglomerate. Product Development Engineers at 3M work on a wide range of products across industries. They are located in cities such as St. Paul, Duluth, and Maplewood, focusing on innovation in adhesives, abrasives, and other products.
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Daikin Applied
Average Salary: $118,980
Daikin Applied is a leader in air conditioning and refrigeration solutions. Product Development Engineers here work on creating energy-efficient products. They are based in cities like Osaka, Tokyo, and Kawasaki, developing innovative cooling and heating systems.
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Gates Corporation
Average Salary: $105,082
Gates Corporation is a global power transmission and fluid power company. Product Development Engineers at Gates design and develop products for the automotive and industrial sectors. They are located in cities such as Denver, Aurora, and Greenwood, focusing on mechanical and fluid power systems.
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Amphenol
Average Salary: $101,862
Amphenol is a leading manufacturer of electronic and fiber optic connectivity products. Product Development Engineers at Amphenol work on creating high-performance connectivity solutions. They operate in cities such as Wallingford, Wallingford, and Wallingford, focusing on electronics and communications.
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Johnson & Johnson
Average Salary: $94,094
Johnson & Johnson is a global health care company. Product Development Engineers here develop medical devices and pharmaceuticals. They work in cities such as New Brunswick, Raritan, and San Francisco, focusing on improving health outcomes with innovative products.
How to earn more as a Product Development Engineer?
Aspiring Product Development Engineers have several paths to increase their earnings. Focus on these key areas to enhance both skills and earning potential. Each factor offers tangible benefits and can lead to better job opportunities.
First, gaining specialized skills in emerging technologies can significantly boost earning potential. Technologies such as machine learning, IoT, and blockchain are in high demand. Engineers who master these areas stand out and can command higher salaries. Continuous learning and certification in these technologies prove valuable to employers and open doors to higher-paying roles.
Second, obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can lead to higher salaries. Degrees such as a Master's in Engineering Management or specialized certifications in project management enhance qualifications. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to professional development and can justify higher pay.
- Specialized skills in emerging technologies
- Advanced degrees or certifications
- Proven track record of successful projects
- Networking and professional associations
- Location and industry specialization
Third, a proven track record of successful projects adds significant value. Engineers who have led projects from concept to completion successfully can leverage this experience to negotiate higher salaries. Highlighting specific achievements and contributions in resumes and interviews showcases expertise and reliability.
Fourth, engaging with professional networks and associations can lead to better job opportunities. Organizations like the IEEE or ASME provide valuable resources, job boards, and networking events. Active participation in these communities can lead to new opportunities and salary increases.
Lastly, location and industry specialization play crucial roles. High-demand locations such as Silicon Valley or New York City typically offer higher salaries. Specializing in high-growth industries like biotechnology or renewable energy also leads to better compensation. Employers in these areas often seek skilled engineers to drive innovation and growth.



