EngineeringOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
Mid Level Mechanical Engineer Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.
$169,853/yr
Typical range: $146,062 – $218,859
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Mechanical Engineer salary by experience level in San Francisco
Mechanical Engineer Salary Progression in San Francisco
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $125,155 | $10,430 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $151,974 | $12,665 | +21% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $169,853 | $14,154 | +36% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $192,381 | $16,032 | +54% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $246,734 | $20,561 | +97% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $289,645 | $24,137 | +131% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $300,372 | $25,031 | +140% |
Current Salary
$169,853
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $82/hr
Next Level Target
$192,381
Senior · 6
+$23Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+7% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mid level Mechanical Engineer salary in San Francisco, CA?
Mid Level Mechanical Engineers in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $170K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a mid level Mechanical Engineer make per hour in San Francisco, CA?
Based on $170K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $82/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from mid level to senior Mechanical Engineer in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Mechanical Engineer in San Francisco, CA earns $219K–$263K/yr.