How much does a Quality Engineer make?
Quality Engineers are vital to ensuring the excellence of products and processes. Their work ensures companies meet their standards, leading to satisfied customers. The average yearly salary for a Quality Engineer is about $95,428. This means those in this field can expect to earn a good living.
The salary for a Quality Engineer can vary. Many factors influence this, such as experience, location, and industry. Those new to the field might start at the lower end of the scale. With time and experience, they can move up to higher salaries. Positions in certain industries or areas can offer higher pay due to demand and cost of living. A look at the data shows that some Quality Engineers earn as little as $46,028, while others earn over $185,000. This range shows the potential for growth in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Quality Engineer?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $146,483
In San Francisco, you can work for tech giants like Google and Apple. The fast-paced tech scene demands high attention to detail and innovative problem-solving skills. The average salary here is one of the highest in the list.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $132,772
Seattle offers a mix of tech and healthcare jobs. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft thrive here. The city’s focus on innovation makes it a great place for quality assurance professionals. The salary here is competitive.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $129,463
Hartford is home to major insurance companies like Aetna and Travelers. Working here means you’ll focus on product reliability and customer satisfaction. The cost of living is moderate, balancing well with the salary.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $127,104
Boston’s rich history in education and healthcare offers numerous job opportunities. Companies like Biogen and General Electric are prominent here. The city’s vibrant culture complements a fulfilling career.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $127,064
San Diego’s biotech sector is booming, with companies like Illumina and Genentech leading the way. The pleasant weather and quality of life make it an attractive place to live and work. Salaries here are quite attractive.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $127,040
Sacramento offers a mix of government and private sector opportunities. The cost of living is lower than in other California cities, making the salary stretch further. It’s a stable place to build your career.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $123,633
Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and manufacturing. Companies like Toyota and Boeing offer diverse roles. The city’s diverse culture and job market make it an exciting place to work.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $122,821
Tampa’s growing tech scene and tourism industry offer many opportunities. Companies like AdventHealth and Raymond James are hiring. The warm weather and lower cost of living make it appealing.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $119,826
Philadelphia’s diverse economy includes sectors like finance and healthcare. Companies such as Vanguard and Independence Blue Cross are prominent. The city’s rich history and culture add to the work experience.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $118,769
Richmond’s economy is a mix of government and private sectors. The cost of living is reasonable, and the salary offers good value. The city’s historical significance and southern charm make it unique.
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What are the best companies a Quality Engineer can work for?

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SQA Services
Average Salary: $225,787
SQA Services provides testing and quality assurance services for technology companies. They have offices in the United States and India. At SQA Services, Quality Engineers work on software testing, quality assurance, and performance testing. They ensure that software meets high standards before release.
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Apple
Average Salary: $196,873
Apple is a global leader in technology. They design, manufacture, and sell consumer electronics, software, and online services. Quality Engineers at Apple work on testing and improving products like iPhones, Macs, and Apple Watches. They ensure these devices meet Apple’s high standards.
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PwC
Average Salary: $185,986
PwC is a multinational professional services network. They offer audit, assurance, consulting, and tax services. Quality Engineers at PwC focus on improving processes and products. They work on projects for clients in various industries, ensuring quality and compliance.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $168,870
Deloitte provides audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services. They have offices worldwide. Quality Engineers at Deloitte work on enhancing the quality of services and solutions. They help clients achieve their business goals with high standards.
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Intuitive (Intuitive Surgical)
Average Salary: $160,983
Intuitive Surgical develops robotic-assisted surgical systems. They have locations in the United States and internationally. Quality Engineers ensure that surgical devices meet safety and performance standards. They play a key role in medical technology.
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Google
Average Salary: $158,778
Google offers a range of internet services and products. They have offices around the world. Quality Engineers at Google focus on testing and improving software and services. They help make sure Google products are reliable and user-friendly.
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KBR
Average Salary: $151,350
KBR provides engineering, procurement, and construction services. They operate globally. Quality Engineers at KBR ensure that projects meet quality and safety standards. They work on a variety of projects in different sectors.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $146,825
Amazon Web Services offers cloud computing services. They have data centers worldwide. Quality Engineers ensure that AWS services are reliable and perform well. They help businesses use cloud technology effectively.
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Los Alamos National Laboratory
Average Salary: $145,208
Los Alamos National Laboratory conducts research and development in science and technology. They are based in New Mexico. Quality Engineers ensure that research projects meet high standards. They work on critical projects for national security.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $144,533
CVS Health provides health care services and products. They have locations nationwide. Quality Engineers at CVS Health work on improving health care services and products. They ensure that everything meets quality standards for customers.
How to earn more as a Quality Engineer?
Quality Engineers play a critical role in ensuring products meet the highest standards. This profession is rewarding both in job satisfaction and compensation. Increasing earnings in this field is possible by focusing on several key factors. These can help elevate a Quality Engineer's career and earnings.
First, gaining relevant certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications such as Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or Six Sigma can make a candidate more attractive to employers. These credentials demonstrate a deeper understanding of quality control methods and processes. They also show a commitment to professional development.
- Gain relevant certifications
- Pursue advanced degrees
- Specialize in high-demand areas
- Seek leadership roles
- Network within the industry
Another factor is pursuing advanced degrees. A master’s degree in Quality Management or Industrial Engineering can open doors to higher-paying positions. Advanced education provides deeper insights into quality control and product development. It also positions the engineer for roles that require strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
Specializing in areas with high demand can also increase earning potential. This could be in industries like automotive, aerospace, or pharmaceuticals. Each of these sectors has unique challenges that require specific skills. Mastery in these areas can lead to higher salaries and more job opportunities.



