How much does a Safety Engineer make?
Safety Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring workplaces are safe and compliant with regulations. On average, these professionals earn a solid income. The average yearly salary for Safety Engineers is $114,140. This figure provides a solid financial foundation for many career paths.
The salary distribution for Safety Engineers shows a wide range of earnings. The lowest 10% earn around $54,800, while the top 10% make over $198,000 annually. This spread reflects the importance of experience, education, and the specific industry in which a Safety Engineer works. Employers often reward those with more expertise and a proven track record with higher salaries. As a Safety Engineer gains more experience and moves up in their career, their earning potential increases. Those who advance to senior positions or specialize in high-demand areas can see even higher earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Safety Engineer?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $154,830
Seattle offers a thriving environment for safety professionals with major tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon. These firms prioritize employee well-being, offering dynamic roles. Seattle's emphasis on innovation makes it a great place for those passionate about safety and technology.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $150,164
In Silicon Valley, companies such as Google and Intel place a high value on workplace safety. The area's tech-centric environment brings unique challenges and opportunities for safety engineers. Working here means contributing to some of the world’s most advanced tech projects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $138,782
Los Angeles offers diverse opportunities for safety professionals across sectors like entertainment and manufacturing. Major companies like Disney and Boeing create a demand for safety expertise. Working in L.A. means being part of a vibrant, industry-rich landscape.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $136,576
Tucson's strong presence in aerospace and defense, with companies like Raytheon, provides significant opportunities for safety engineers. The city’s stable economy and lower living costs make it attractive for those in the field. Working here means ensuring safety in cutting-edge industries.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $132,932
Known for its military and space-related industries, Colorado Springs offers unique challenges for safety professionals. With employers like Lockheed Martin, it’s a great place for those interested in defense and aerospace. The city’s clean environment and outdoor activities enhance the quality of life.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $131,981
San Diego’s diverse industries, from biotech to maritime, require skilled safety experts. Companies like Qualcomm and Naval Base San Diego value safety, offering dynamic and impactful roles. The city’s pleasant climate and beautiful beaches provide a balanced lifestyle.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $123,944
Austin’s booming tech scene, led by companies such as Dell and Apple, creates a high demand for safety engineers. The city’s vibrant culture and lower cost of living make it appealing. Working in Austin means being at the heart of innovation and technology.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $119,412
The nation’s capital offers a unique setting for safety professionals with a mix of government and private sector roles. Companies like Amazon and Lockheed Martin need safety expertise. Working in D.C. means being part of a hub for political and economic influence.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $119,372
Huntsville, known as Rocket City, offers numerous opportunities in aerospace and defense. Companies like NASA and Redstone Arsenal value safety highly. The city’s family-friendly environment and lower cost of living add to its appeal.
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Cedar Rapids, IA
Average Salary: $119,064
Cedar Rapids is a key player in the manufacturing and food processing sectors, with companies like Rockwell Collins. Safety engineers here can find rewarding roles in a supportive community. The city’s affordable living and strong community ties make it an attractive place to work.
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What are the best companies a Safety Engineer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $211,368
Apple hires Safety Engineers to ensure workplace safety across its global operations. This includes locations in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Apple is known for its innovative approach to technology and workplace safety.
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Collins Aerospace
Average Salary: $160,482
Collins Aerospace offers Safety Engineer roles with a focus on aerospace safety. Positions are available in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The company emphasizes safety in manufacturing and engineering environments.
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McMillen, Inc.
Average Salary: $148,846
McMillen, Inc. employs Safety Engineers in construction and infrastructure projects. They operate throughout the United States, focusing on safety in construction sites and industrial settings.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $142,700
Northrop Grumman has Safety Engineer positions in national defense and aerospace. Locations include the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. The company ensures safety in high-tech environments.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $130,054
Amazon.com hires Safety Engineers for its vast distribution network. Positions are available across the United States, Europe, and Asia. Amazon focuses on warehouse and logistics safety.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $127,165
Boeing offers Safety Engineer roles in its aircraft manufacturing plants. Locations include the United States and several countries in Europe. Boeing prioritizes safety in its aircraft production facilities.
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Raytheon
Average Salary: $125,070
Raytheon employs Safety Engineers in defense and aerospace sectors. Positions are available in the United States and internationally. Raytheon ensures safety in its advanced technology projects.
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Framatome
Average Salary: $119,179
Framatome offers Safety Engineer positions in nuclear power plant operations. Locations include France and other European countries. The company focuses on safety in nuclear energy production.
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Rolls-Royce
Average Salary: $116,293
Rolls-Royce hires Safety Engineers for its aerospace and automotive sectors. Locations include the United Kingdom and the United States. Rolls-Royce emphasizes safety in high-performance engineering.
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Kinder Morgan
Average Salary: $107,117
Kinder Morgan employs Safety Engineers in its energy and infrastructure projects. Positions are available throughout the United States. The company focuses on safety in energy transportation and storage.
How to earn more as a Safety Engineer?
A Safety Engineer plays a crucial role in ensuring workplace safety and compliance with regulations. To earn more in this profession, certain steps can lead to higher compensation. Building the right skills and gaining experience in specific areas often result in better-paying opportunities.
Here are some effective strategies to increase earnings as a Safety Engineer:
- Pursue advanced certifications: Gaining certifications like Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) can enhance expertise and open up higher-paying positions.
- Specialize in high-demand fields: Focusing on areas such as process safety management or hazardous materials can lead to roles with greater compensation.
- Gain experience in multiple industries: Working in diverse sectors can make a Safety Engineer more versatile and valuable to employers.
- Develop strong communication skills: Being able to effectively communicate safety policies and procedures can improve workplace safety and potentially lead to higher pay.
- Continue professional development: Staying current with industry trends and technologies ensures a Safety Engineer remains competitive and can command higher salaries.



