The complete guide to engineering salaries in 2026
Across 17 engineering roles, the median salary is $94K, and demand is growing about 7% a year. The top payer is Petroleum Engineer at $128K, the fastest-growing is Mechatronics Engineer (~18%/yr), and one of the most automation-resilient is Nuclear Engineer.
Highest-paying engineering roles
- 1Petroleum Engineer$128K/yr
- 2Aerospace Engineer$120K/yr
- 3Nuclear Engineer$118K/yr
- 4Systems Engineer$110K/yr
- 5Chemical Engineer$104K/yr
- 6Electrical Engineer$100K/yr
- 7Mechatronics Engineer$98K/yr
- 8Marine Engineer$95K/yr
- 9Structural Engineer$94K/yr
- 10Mechanical Engineer$92K/yr
Common questions
What is the average engineering salary in 2026?
Across 17 engineering roles we track, the median salary is about $94K. The highest-paying is Petroleum Engineer at $128K; demand across the field is growing ~7% a year.
Which engineering job pays the most?
Petroleum Engineer leads at roughly $128K. See the full ranking for how the top roles compare.
Which engineering careers are growing fastest?
Mechatronics Engineer is the fastest-growing at ~18% a year, and Nuclear Engineer is among the most resilient to automation.
Figures from BLS-anchored medians across tracked roles; individual pay varies.