Program Manager vs Robotics Engineer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Program Manager
Coordinate multiple related projects to achieve strategic objectives.
Robotics Engineer
Design and program robotic systems for industrial, medical, and consumer use.
Robotics Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $27,942/year (27%) higher than a Program Manager. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Program Manager vs Robotics Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Program Manager | Robotics Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $151,275 | $191,598 | Program $40,323 |
| New York, NY | $124,570 | $135,300 | Program $10,730 |
| Seattle, WA | $144,148 | $183,389 | Program $39,241 |
| Austin, TX | $113,017 | $144,607 | Program $31,590 |
| Chicago, IL | $111,506 | $141,411 | Program $29,905 |
| Boston, MA | $136,287 | $172,165 | Program $35,878 |
| London, UK | £81,547 | £98,900 | Program $17,353 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$139,548 | CA$169,077 | Program $29,529 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Program Manager or Robotics Engineer earn more?+
A Robotics Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Program Manager is $102,320/year, compared to $130,262/year for a Robotics Engineer — a difference of $27,942 (27%).
Which has better career growth — Program Manager or Robotics Engineer?+
Program Manager roles are growing at 15% YoY while Robotics Engineer demand is growing at 35% YoY. Robotics Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Program Manager to Robotics Engineer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Program Manager or Robotics Engineer?+
Robotics Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (25% vs 36%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.